Those dark streaks on Fort Wayne roofs aren't dirt. They're a living organism, and they're shortening the life of your roof every day they're up there.
The black streaks running down asphalt shingle roofs are a specific algae called Gloeocapsa magma. It feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles, which is why it's been growing more aggressively over the past few decades — modern shingles have higher limestone content for fire-resistance ratings.
Gravity. The algae starts at the top of the roof (often near tree-shaded areas), and rain spreads spores downhill. That's why streaks always run vertically and are usually worse on the north-facing slope.
Algae physically degrades shingles. Studies show that algae-infested roofs lose up to 40% of their expected lifespan. A roof rated for 25 years can fail at 15. At Fort Wayne re-roofing costs of $12,000–$25,000+, that's a serious financial hit.
The algae also reduces your roof's solar reflectance, which can increase summer cooling costs by 10–15%.
Professional soft washing is the only manufacturer-approved method. We apply a low-pressure sodium hypochlorite solution that:
Most homeowners expect immediate clean shingles. Reality: the algae dies during the wash, but it takes 1–7 days of weather for it to fully break down and rinse away. The first day after, you'll see slight improvement. By day 7, the difference is dramatic.
Most Fort Wayne roofs benefit from a soft wash every 3–5 years. Heavily shaded properties may need it every 2–3 years. If you see streaks, it's time.
Get a same-day pressure washing or soft wash quote anywhere in Fort Wayne or Allen County.