Roof Tile Fungus

Some black stains on asphalt roof shingles are caused by a black algae sometimes misnamed as a black fungus or even a mildew such as that shown in the photograph here.

Roof tile fungus.

Lichen are sutborn and are very diffcult to remove unlike the roof algae roof lichen are persistent and deeply adhered to the roof. It s actually just a blue green algae spread by airborne spores. Roof lichen are symbiotic organism where fungus and algae live in a dependent relationship unfortunately their relationship can cause real damage to your roof. Known as black algae or roof mold gloeocapsa magma is usually blamed on dirt accumulation mold and mildew or defective shingles.

Black algae stains may be mistaken for but are not extractive bleeding a product cosmetic defect. It needs heat moisture and nutrients to grow. Their formulae use tried and true zinc compounds that linger on surfaces to provide continuing protection. It is easily spread and causes those colorful stains on so many roofs.

It s actually just a blue green algae spread by airborne spores. Roofs and others designed to remove and or inhibit moss and fungus growth on siding masonry surfaces and even lawns. Commonly found in climates with warm humid summers it does no damage to the roofing but it certainly does looks bad.