What that black streaking is
The dark streaks on Southwest Florida roofs are usually Gloeocapsa magma, a cyanobacterium that spreads in heat and humidity. South Florida gets about 70 percent of its rain between mid-May and mid-October, so the growth has months of wet weather to spread.
Eagle Roofing says algae, mold and mildew on concrete tile are not harmful to the integrity of the tile, but they can make the roof look less attractive. So this is mostly about how your home looks and how it ages, and about cleaning it the right way.
Why soft wash is the method for tile
Eagle Roofing recommends cleaning its concrete tile with water only, with the pressure never above 1,200 PSI, and says any cleaner should be compatible with concrete and used as dilute as possible. It also says walking on a roof can be difficult and dangerous.
Soft washing is built for that. We use low pressure and a cleaning solution that goes after the growth itself, so force is not doing the work. Pressure washing is for concrete and pavers, not for your roof.
What changes the quote
We quote from photos, so send a wide shot of each roof section and a close one of the worst area. These are the things that move a roof quote.
| What we look at | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Roof size | More surface means more time and more cleaning solution |
| One story or two | Height changes how the work is set up |
| How heavy the growth is | Light streaks and thick black coverage are different jobs |
| Water and access | We need an outdoor water spigot and gates left open |
| Other surfaces | Many people add the lanai, pool cage or driveway to the same visit |
Cleaned once, then how often
Many homes need it about once a year. Shade, trees and how close you are to water change that, and we will tell you what your roof needs, not sell you more. When we finish, you get before and after photos.
