Why Do Roofs Get Black Streaks in Michigan?

Believe it or not, that’s algae! Those streaks are Gloeocapsa Magma, otherwise known as “Blue-green algae”. I know, those streaks aren’t blue or green, they’re black, right? If it was up to me, I’d name it black algae.

So what causes this blue-green algae?

Well algae is a plant, so it needs some basic elements such as water. Do we get rain & dew on our roofs in Michigan? Oh yes, we do. Plants also need indirect sunlight. Do these black streaks only appear on the North side of a house? Yeah, hmm.

At this point you may be thinking: “Okay the black streak algae is caused by water & indirect sunlight so there’s no way to prevent it because you can’t stop the sun & clouds.”

The copper solution!

Thanks to our friends at 3M Scotchgard they invented roof shingle granules that are embedded with copper! Now you’re probably thinking: “Yea so??”

Copper kills algae by binding to it, which damages the algae cells, causing them to leak and die.

The International Code Council requires 2% of all shingle granules to be embedded with copper. Obviously, that’s not enough in Michigan!

Make sure the contractors in Lansing, MI you hire install roofing shingles that have at least 5% copper granules. If you're searching for roofing companies near me, be sure to ask them about their roofing materials. Most shingle manufacturers offer shingles with approximately 2%–5% copper granules, but companies such as Atlas & Malarkey offer up to 10% & 12% copper!

So why in the world would these roofing companies knowingly sell you roof shingles that will streak black? The conspiracy theorist in me says: planned obsolescence! They may be selling cheap asphalt shingles or low-quality roof shingles comparable to basic Home Depot shingles. However, the reality isn’t as sophisticated. The fact is, most roofing contractors want to give you the lowest bid, which we all know usually means the worst product and the biggest rip-off. To protect your home, you need the best roofing contractors. From seamless asphalt shingle replacement to full metal roofing systems, we install the highest-grade roofing supply, specifically prioritizing gaf shingles and Malarkey impact-rated materials.

Higher-copper-content shingles may cost you 5% more than the streaking kind, but they will look brand new for decades, until the day you want to sell your home. Think about the resale value.

If you are evaluating your overall roof replacement cost, trust a dedicated home improvement contractor. Unlike typical local roofers or basic roofers focused solely on volume, we are a comprehensive home improvement company. As experienced general contractors and remodeling contractors, we oversee complex renovations. If you are searching among the top home improvement companies for superior home remodeling, our team of home improvement contractors has you covered. Whether you need an elite general contractor or specific roof repair on your existing shingles roof, we deliver lasting home improvement. Finding a trusted contractor doesn't have to be difficult; compare our proposals against other contractors and see the difference.

Have a great day, and remember: in home improvement, you can only pick two: cheap, fast, or good!