If your roof has dark streaks running down it, you're looking at Gloeocapsa magma — a type of blue-green algae that feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles. It's extremely common in Houston's hot, humid climate.
Why You Shouldn't Ignore It
Roof algae isn't just ugly — it's destructive. As it feeds on your shingles, it causes premature granule loss, which shortens your roof's lifespan and reduces its ability to reflect heat, increasing your energy bills.
The Solution: Professional Roof Cleaning
Professional roof cleaning uses a soft wash technique with specialized algae-killing solutions. High pressure is never used on roofs — it would destroy shingles. Our low-pressure application kills algae at the root, and rain gradually rinses away the dead organisms over 2–4 weeks.
How Much Does It Cost?
Roof cleaning in Houston typically costs $0.30–$0.50 per square foot, depending on roof size, pitch, and accessibility. That's a fraction of the $8,000–$15,000 cost of a roof replacement.
Prevention
Zinc or copper strips installed along the roof ridge can help prevent future algae growth. Ask us about this option when you schedule your cleaning. Get a free estimate.
