Is Your Roof Overheating? The Real Cost of Black Streaks in the Summer
Those Black Streaks Aren’t Just Ugly — They’re Expensive
You glance up at your roof and see long, dark streaks running down the shingles. Maybe you’ve told yourself it’s just dirt, shadows, or “normal aging.” But here’s the truth: those streaks are actually algae growth — and in the heat of an Indiana or Ohio summer, they can cost you more than just curb appeal.
The culprit is a type of airborne algae called Gloeocapsa magma. Once it lands on your roof, it feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles, spreading across the surface and leaving behind that unsightly black staining.
The Hidden Costs of Roof Algae in Summer
1. Higher Cooling Bills
Algae stains absorb heat. On a hot August afternoon, your roof can reach temperatures that make your home’s AC work overtime. The result? Higher energy bills every month.
2. Shortened Roof Lifespan
Algae eats away at your shingles, causing premature wear. What could have been a 20-year roof may only last 15 if left untreated.
3. Risk of Moss & Lichen Growth
In humid conditions, moss and lichen often grow on top of algae. Moss holds moisture against your shingles, causing them to lift, crack, or rot.
4. Reduced Property Value
Potential buyers see a dirty roof and assume the home hasn’t been maintained — lowering offers or turning them away entirely.
Why August Is the Best Time for Roof Cleaning
Stops Damage Before Winter – Removing algae now prevents it from expanding under snow and ice.
Improves Energy Efficiency During Peak Heat – A clean, reflective roof surface stays cooler, reducing AC strain.
Instant Curb Appeal Boost – Your home will look well-kept for end-of-summer gatherings and real estate showings.
Book Before the Fall Rush – Many homeowners wait until fall, leading to longer scheduling delays.
TLC’s Gentle, Effective Roof Cleaning Process
We don’t blast your roof with high-pressure water — that can strip protective granules and void your shingle warranty. Instead, we use our soft wash method, which safely removes algae, moss, and stains without damage.
Our Process:
Inspection: We assess your roof’s condition and identify problem areas.
Soft Wash Treatment: A specialized cleaning solution kills algae at the root.
Low-Pressure Rinse: We gently wash away dead growth, revealing the roof’s original color.
Final Review: We walk you through the results to ensure complete satisfaction.
Why Homeowners Trust TLC
Local Expertise: We know the exact weather conditions that fuel algae growth in Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio.
Long-Lasting Results: Our treatment kills algae spores, slowing regrowth for years.
All-in-One Service: Many homeowners bundle roof cleaning with gutter clearing or siding washing for a full home refresh.
Areas We Serve
We provide professional roof cleaning in Fort Wayne, Bluffton, Decatur, Van Wert, Berne, and surrounding communities like Monroeville, Geneva, Ossian, and Convoy.
Don’t Let Black Streaks Steal From Your Roof
Protect your roof, lower your cooling bills, and restore your home’s curb appeal before summer ends. TLC: Making It Easy is here to help.
📞 Call now or request your free roof cleaning estimate to secure your August service.