Has anyone had success cleaning algae streaks from asphalt shingles? If so, how long did it last?
I checked out some products online, ie: http://shopping.netsuite.com/s.nl/c.ACCT18259/sc.8/category.2095/.f
I have a low pitch roof that I can walk on. Thanks for any info.
Ian
Skim-coating with joint compound covers texture, renews old drywall and plaster, and leaves smooth surfaces ready to paint.
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I haven't used that particular product, but have used products that were advertised to remove the algae. Worked fine. Can't remember the names of the products, though.
A cleaner is only as long lasting as the residual remains on the roof. On the houses we did, we also put zinc strips at the peaks. This seems to work well to inhibit future algae growth. They still have small streaks that need to be cleaned (high spots in roofs from settling, warping, etc do not allow for an even "sheeting action" on the roof), but not remotely as bad as it was before.
Especially with a low pitch roof... you may want to consider some method as an inhibitor, as well as cleaning the roof.
Plain old chlorine bleach works well. Be sure to use a fresh bottle -- it goes bad fast.
To permanently prevent algae, place zinc or copper strips along the top ridge.