4 Common Causes Of Asphalt Shingle Roof Discoloration

Posted on: 21 January 2022

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Have you noticed that your asphalt shingle roof has some discoloration? Discoloration affects asphalt shingles for several reasons. Although discoloration often occurs due to minor issues, in some cases, shingle discoloration may be due to a more serious issue.

If your asphalt shingles are discolored, inspect your roof to see if you can determine the cause. You may need the help of a roofing contractor to determine whether you need to replace or repair your roof.

1. Algae growth

If your shingles are gray or black in areas, then you likely have an algae problem. Algae isn't a serious problem for asphalt shingle roofs, but it can really damage the curb appeal of your home if left to spread. And eventually, algae can reduce the longevity of asphalt shingles if not removed. A roofer can clean algae from your shingles in a relatively short time.

2. Moss growth

If you have trees or buildings shading your roof, then moss may be the problem. Moss likes to grow in cool, shaded areas, so you can keep it at bay by removing trees and tree limbs that overshadow your home.

Moss can do more damage than algae because moss can spread under asphalt shingles. When that happens, the moisture retained by moss can damage the wooden structure of your roof, at which point it will need to be repaired.

3. Asphalt bleed through

Asphalt bleed through occurs for two reasons. If your shingles are of an inferior quality, then they may quickly begin to break down soon after installation. When this happens, the black pigment from the shingles rises to the surface to create ugly black discolorations. Old asphalt shingles that need to be replaced may also begin to suffer from asphalt bleed through.

If asphalt bleed through is the cause of your roof's discoloration, you will need a roofer to replace the affected shingles.

4. Rust stains

If the stains on your asphalt shingle roof are red or orange in color, then rust is likely to be the culprit. The flashing of a typical asphalt shingle roof contains metal. And when flashing ages or is damaged, it may begin to rust and cause red or orange streaks on your roof. In this case, you need a roofer to inspect and replace your flashing.

If your shingle roof is discolored, then call a roofing contractor. A roofing contractor can help you to determine the cause of the discoloration. If the discoloration is merely an aesthetic issue, a roofing contractor can clean your roof for you. If discoloration reveals more serious issues, a roof repair service can help you repair the damage.