Why Lichens Should Be Removed From Your Roof

Green roofing is the new black for modern architecture and anyone who loves green spaces. Green roofs are living, breathing plant systems that add a natural touch to homes.

However, if you have moss, algae, and lichen growing on your roof, please note that these are not green roofing features. These plant organisms can cause significant damage to your roofing systems and should be removed immediately. Today, we’ll be taking a look at how lichens can affect the roof of your home and why you should get rid of them when first spotted.

What Are Lichens?

Lichens are plant-like organisms that evolve from the interaction between algae and fungi. These organisms can grow on just about any surface. Their strength and durability make it hard for even rain and hail to wash them away. They’re found in every environment, making it easy for these plants to find their way onto your roof no matter where you live.

How Lichen Affects Your Roof

Ruins Your Curb Appeal

Lichen growths on your rooftop can create quite an unsightly image. They’ll make your roof look like it is poorly maintained and deteriorated. If you plan on selling your home, significant lichen growth on your rooftop can affect your home’s selling price.

Harm Your Shingles

Lichens will eat away at your roofing shingles and quickly remove their protective top layer. This drastically reduces your rooftop’s ability to ward off things like hail or any severe weather elements. They’ve also been known to significantly discolor your roof, leading to a decrease in your home’s curb appeal.

Loosen Shingles

Once lichen grows beneath your roofing shingles, it may loosen the shingles over time and eventually cause them to detach completely. If the lichen growth on your roof is quite significant, you may lose quite a bit of roofing shingles, which will expose the roof deck of your home to the elements.

Difficult to Navigate Across Your Roof

Navigating across your roof if you have significant lichen growth can be pretty tricky. Lichen holds any water and moisture that lands on your rooftop, creating a slippery surface.

For information on lichen, moss, or algae growth on your roofing system, give Cittrix Roofing a call today!