Look at any neighborhood in Fort Hunt or Alexandria, and you're bound to see it: dark, unsightly black streaks staining otherwise beautiful roofs. Many homeowners believe this is just a sign of aging or that the shingles are failing and need to be replaced. But what if we told you that in most cases, your roof isn't old—it's just dirty?
As a veteran-owned business serving our neighbors right here in the Fort Hunt and greater Alexandria community, we at Fort Hunt Veteran Pressure Washers have seen it all. Those black streaks are not just dirt or tar; they are a living organism, and they're eating your roof.
The good news? You don't need a costly roof replacement. You need a professional roof cleaning.
What Are Those Black Streaks? Meet Gloeocapsa Magma
The primary culprit behind these stains is a type of algae called Gloeocapsa magma. Our warm, humid Virginia climate is the perfect breeding ground for it. This airborne algae lands on your roof and begins to feed on the limestone filler used in modern asphalt shingles. As it grows, it develops a dark, hardened outer layer to protect itself from the sun's UV rays, creating the black streaks you see.
But it doesn't stop there. This algae can also lead to:
-
Moss and Lichen Growth: These organisms trap moisture against your shingles and can lift them over time, allowing water to penetrate your roof deck.
-
Reduced Energy Efficiency: A roof covered in black algae absorbs more heat from the sun, making your attic hotter and forcing your air conditioner to work overtime, driving up your energy bills.
-
Premature Roof Deterioration: By feeding on the shingle components, these organisms are literally shortening the lifespan of your roof.
The Dangers of High Pressure: Why You Should NEVER Pressure Wash a Roof
Your first instinct might be to blast these stains away with high pressure. This is the most damaging thing you can do to your roof.
High-pressure washing will:
-
Strip Away Protective Granules: The sandpaper-like granules on your asphalt shingles are essential for protecting them from the sun and weather. High pressure acts like a sandblaster, scouring these vital granules off and drastically reducing your roof's lifespan.
-
Force Water Underneath Shingles: This can lead to wood rot, leaks in your attic, and dangerous mold growth within your home's structure.
-
Void Your Roof's Warranty: Most shingle manufacturers will immediately void their warranty if a high-pressure washer is used to clean the roof.
The Fort Hunt Veteran Solution: Professional Soft Wash Roof Cleaning
At Fort Hunt Veteran Pressure Washers, we use the only method recommended by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA): Soft Washing.
This technique is the complete opposite of aggressive pressure washing. Here’s how our professional process works:
-
Inspection: We first assess the condition of your roof and identify the specific types of organic growth present.
-
Specialized Solution Application: We apply our proprietary, biodegradable cleaning solution using absolutely no pressure. This solution is specifically designed to penetrate and neutralize Gloeocapsa magma, moss, and lichen at the root.
-
Dwell Time: The solution is left to dwell on the roof, doing the hard work of breaking down the organic matter without any damaging force.
-
Gentle Rinse: We finish with a gentle, low-pressure rinse to wash away the dead organisms and cleaning solution, revealing a roof that looks brand new.
This process doesn't just clean the stains; it kills the infestation, meaning your roof stays cleaner for much longer.
Top 4 Benefits of a Professional Soft Wash Roof Cleaning
-
Extend Your Roof's Lifespan: By safely removing the destructive organisms that are feeding on your shingles, you can add years to the life of your roof, saving you tens of thousands of dollars on a premature replacement.
-
Massively Boost Curb Appeal: A clean roof makes your entire property look newer, cleaner, and more valuable. It's one of the most dramatic visual improvements you can make to your home's exterior.
-
Improve Energy Efficiency: By restoring your roof's original, more reflective color, you can reduce heat absorption and lower your summer cooling costs.
-
Protect Your Family's Health & Your Investment: Our process is safe for your shingles, your landscaping, and your family. Don't risk a dangerous fall from a ladder or catastrophic damage to your home. Our team is fully trained, licensed, and insured for your peace of mind.
Your Trusted, Local Veteran-Owned Experts
From the historic homes in Old Town Alexandria to the beautiful properties in the Fort Hunt "400-area," we are dedicated to protecting your investment. We bring military precision, discipline, and a commitment to excellence to every single job.
Before you call a roofer for an expensive replacement quote, give us a call.
Ready to restore your roof's beauty and function? Contact Fort Hunt Veteran Pressure Washers today for your free, no-obligation roof cleaning estimate!
