Those black streaks running down your roof are gleocapsa magma, a hardy algae that feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles. It isn't cosmetic damage alone — the colony retains moisture and reduces the reflectivity of the shingle, and moss and lichen that follow it can lift and separate shingle edges outright.

The critical thing about roof cleaning is what we do not do: we never put high pressure on a roof. Pressure washing shingles strips the protective granules that give a roof its lifespan and can void the manufacturer's warranty outright. We use a low-pressure soft wash that applies a cleaning solution, kills the organic growth at the root, and rinses gently — the method recommended by shingle manufacturers and roofing associations.

Because the solution kills the colony rather than scraping the visible surface, results last far longer than a mechanical clean. Streaking typically stays gone for several years rather than reappearing the following season, and moss and lichen release progressively over the weeks after treatment as the dead growth weathers off.

Safety and property protection drive our process. We plan runoff paths, pre-wet and rinse all landscaping and lawn beneath the work area, and manage downspout discharge. We're fully insured for roof work, and we'll tell you plainly if a roof is too deteriorated to clean safely — brittle, cupped or failing shingles need a roofer, not a cleaner.

If you're seeing streaks from the street, call (913) 709-5882 for a free estimate. We'll assess the roof's condition and the growth type and give you a written price with no obligation.