Why is My Long Island Roof Discolored? Know When to Call a Licensed Roofer
Roof discoloration could be a symptom of age, water damage, an active leak, or even algae growth. Light or dark patches on your roof could mean that you need an immediate roof repair with a licensed roofer on Long Island. Knowing what to look for is essential.
Roof Discoloration Warning Signs: When to Call a Roofing Contractor
Call a roofing contractor for an immediate inspection when:
- Dark, Tiger-Like Streaks: This is often Gloeocapsa magma, a type of algae. It thrives in Long Island’s humid weather. It’s not just an aesthetic problem. It can feed on the limestone filler in your shingles, causing them to decay. Black algae streaks usually appear on the north-facing side of the roof. Call a Roofing Contractor ASAP.
- Green, Fuzzy Patches: This is usually moss or lichen. Although some homeowners don’t mind the look, it’s dangerous to leave this growth. It traps moisture against the shingles and can create roots in the substrate. This eventually leads to lifting and water damage. Call a Roofing Contractor ASAP.
- Dark Spots on Plywood in the Attic: This is a sign of an ongoing, slow leak. It can cause mold growth and structural decay, compromising your entire roofing system. Don’t ignore this one. Call a Roofing Contractor Immediately.
- Rusty Stains Near Chimneys and Roof Valleys: These stains are usually caused by corroded flashing or failing metal components. Corrosion is serious because it can allow water into the roofing system, bypassing the shingles. This could compromise the waterproof underlayment and saturate the roof deck. Call a Roofing Contractor Immediately.
- Uniform Fading or Bleached Shingles: Significant color loss across all (or patches) of the roof is a sign of age. UV radiation eventually bleaches shingles, causing them to fade from their original color. You might notice uneven fading due to surrounding shade structures, such as trees or other homes. If you have a complex roof design with peaks and valleys, the more exposed areas will fade faster. Fading in itself isn’t a problem, but it suggests that the roof is old and potentially near its replacement age. Call a Roofing Contractor ASAP.
Regular Inspections Can Prevent Costly Surprises
Homes on Long Island require roofing inspections twice every year. Once in the fall to ensure the roof is ready for winter, and then again in the spring to check for any damage caused by ice and rain.
Statistics from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University indicate that most money spent on home improvements is reactive, rather than related to maintenance and preservation. Many homeowners skip their regular roof inspections, but this is dangerous. Regular inspections will spot the early stages of discoloration, while also identifying leaks, failing shingles, and structural issues. When you notice discoloration, it’s usually a sign that the underlying issue is advanced and has probably been ongoing for longer than six months.
Make it a habit to keep up with your roof inspections. It can save you money by minimizing repair needs.
Talk to a Licensed Roofing Contractor if Your Roof is Discolored
Renew Roofing Solutions is a trusted roofing contractor serving homeowners and businesses throughout Suffolk and Nassau Counties. Our team is highly regarded for dependable roof repairs and roof replacements. As an Owens Corning® Preferred Roofing Contractor, we can supply and install the most durable roofing shingles in America.
Book a Long Island roof inspection today by calling us at 516-212-0307 or 914-415-7702.