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Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find a list of frequently asked roofing questions. If
there is a particular question you do not see below please
contact us and we
will get the question and answer posted at the next update. Thanks for
your questions and support to help us make this site more informative for all
who view.
General Shingle & Cedar Shake Installation Questions:
- Does cellophane strip need to be removed before installation?
No, shingle manufacturers' place these strips on the shingles to
keep them from bonding to the other shingles at point of manufacture.
These will not line up with the seal strip with proper application.
- What is the lowest slope a manufacturer will allow shingles to be
installed? Manufacturers have different requirements for low slope
shingle application. These requirements will be listed on every
package of shingles with the general application instructions. Each
manufacturer has various requirements (i.e. double layer felt, less exposure
on shingles, ice and water guard)
- Is felt required under shingle roofs? Most all Building Codes require
underlayment under shingle roofs. For
areas outside of Shelby County, TN, check with local building requirements.
NOTE: You should consult the shingle wrapper for manufacturer requirements
and building code before any roof installation. Felt should always be
used on new roof decks or when roofs are torn off and replaced.
- When installing wood shake shingles, what fasteners should be
used? Due to the different treating process' (i.e. CCA, ACQ,
and CA type A & B) you should consult your distributor or manufacturer to
ensure fasteners are correct for the product you are installing.
- Why is Cold Applied Modified Bitumen better for low slope
applications than 90#? Cold applied Modified Bitumen (SBS) is
a far superior product than standard 90# roll roofing in almost all
applications. It has greater tear/puncture resistance and better
weathering characteristics. The cost is more, but the longevity of the
product makes the greater expense outweigh the use of 90#. Consult the
products pages for available SBS products and application instructions.
Roof Algae Questions:
- What Causes the stains or streaks on asphalt roof shingles?
The discoloration on roofs seems to be an ever increasing problem. It
has been referred to in the roofing trade as "Fungus Growth" or "Mildew".
but is actually algae growth. Algae usually appears as a brown-gray to
black appearance and may be confused with dirt or soot build up. It is
less likely to be noticed on black or darker colored roofs. There are
several types of roof algae.
-
According to 3-M in St
Paul MN. explains that most of this common
black streaking is caused by a specific variety of algae known as Gloeocapsa
magma. Gloeocapsa is black hardy, blue-green strain of algae that
produces it own energy source and feeds on inorganic materials.
...unlike fungus or mildew which requires organic matter to survive.
This algae develops a tough cellular sheath that protects it from toxic
substances, which makes it more resistant to some removal methods. The
dark stains are the result of dead algae cells that accumulate and build up
over time.
- Why is it only on one side of my house? Will it get worse?
Algae spores that become airborne can deposit on all types of
surfaces. Usually, it first appears on the more northerly roof areas,
or shaded areas - where the roof remains damp longer. Once it
develops, it starts to spread to other roof areas. Eventually, it can
cover the entire roof, even transfer to adjacent houses.
- When does algae growth start? Algae colonies may
establish themselves within the first 12-24 months after a roof
installation. It may not become visually noticeable until about 4-7
years after roof installation. Most unpredictable.
- What problems can algae discoloration cause?
Primarily cosmetic - degrading curb appeal. Algae makes property seem old and
neglected. The resale value of property can be adversely affected
solely because of appearance.
- The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturer's Association (ARMA), and roofing
manufacturers say algae discoloration does not adversely affect the
service-life expectancy or asphalt roofing, only the appearance.
- Can discoloration cause failure? Not to be confused
with algae - there are mold-like growths that can cause or lead to premature
roof failure, if left to uncontrolled growth and build up. This
mold-like growth con start to grow up and under the tabs of shingles,
causing the shingles to lift up and unseal, which can make the roof begin
leaking. This type of growth is rare and us usually found on roof sin
damp areas, that are surrounded by trees which receive virtually no
sunlight. This type is quite noticeable usually has a dark
green-yellow color.
- Can it be cleaned off? Yes, Algae growth may be
cleaned, but it is difficult to remove. The effectiveness usually is
temporary, since it may recur. There are possible hazards connected
with the use of cleaners, such as damage to paint, shrubbery, the roofing
and other parts of the building. Cleaning can be cone with diluted
bleach or using commercial roof cleaners. CAUTION: Some cleaners
can be extremely slippery and/or harmful to the user.
- Local companies specialize in cleaning roofs. It is recommended
you secure references and the check with your local Better Business Bureau.
High pressure washing should not be used on asphalt roofing.
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