FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What are the black stains on my roof ?
A: The technical name is “Gloeocapsa Magma" (a.k.a. - GM), and otherwise referred to as blue-green algae. Ideal growing conditions for roof algae are found on the north and east sides of your roof where sunlight is subdued and moisture is high. GM actually thrives on all sides of the roof - it is just less visible in the sunny areas. Those ugly roof stains are a combination of dead and dying algae cells and a self-generated protective layer that keeps ultraviolet (UV) rays from harming the living colony underneath. The algae spores travel until finding an environment where an ample supply of shade, moisture and food are found ... in other words, your roof!
Q: Why should I be concerned and what should I do about it?
A: BLACK STREAKS ARE WARNING SIGNS! In the past they were misdiagnosed as a cosmetic issue caused by jet fuel, tree sap, airplane waste, tree pollen and dirt. Property owners ignored their roofs allowing them to deteriorate until the only option was an expensive replacement. The truth is that unattractive roof stains make your home or business look unhealthy and neglected, seriously compromising its curb appeal. More importantly, algae infestation is the enemy of roof shingles because it acts as host to lichen infestation, contributing to irreversible damage resulting in premature roof replacement.
These photos illustrate the damage done by lichen to a 30 year architectural shingle when left untreated ...
Q: Why is it on my roof and not the property next door?
A: The answer has to do with several variables, but the age of the roof and type of material are the likeliest suspects. Shingle manufacturers added limestone to composite (asphalt) roofing material as a filler to replace weight lost by reductions in the amount of costly petroleum-based product. This change had unforeseen consequences, as the addition of limestone created a constant food source for
Gloeocapsa Magma.
To compound the
problem, algae acts as host to other more harmful roof parasites (all of which thrive on algae), accelerating the decomposition of your roof. They include harmful fungus, bacteria, mold,
lichens
and moss. Tree shade, dormers, gutter debris, water on the property (including sprinkler systems), all contribute to ideal growing conditions.
Q: Is there anything other than cleaning that effectively prevents this type of infestation?
A:
Shingle manufacturers are aware of the problem and have recently changed the way they make asphalt shingles to include metal compounds meant to offset the risk of algae infestation which have performed with mixed results. For existing roofs with limestone fillers, zinc roofing strips have been suggested as an effective deterrent with inconsistent results. Years of on-site experience shows that most of these "solutions" are effective for limited periods of time. Observe the roof pictured above and note that it is a 50-Year Premium AR (algae resistant) shingled roof installed less than ten years ago.
Q: Because my roof has algae and lichen on it, does this mean my roof is ready to be replaced?
A:
It is important to remember that every roof has a lifespan and WILL eventually need to be replaced (some earlier than they should). The life of a roof varies depending on whether it has received proper maintenance, suffered excess exposure to extreme weather conditions, has proper ventilation, insulation, has a manufacturer material defect or has experienced flora infestation. If algae,
lichen
and moss are eliminated, the roof should be expected to provide years of good service, but only if regularly maintained.
By postponing action, the roof's lifespan can be cut by up to 50%
- an expensive consequence!
We like what our fellow Angie's List exterior cleaning colleagues had to say about the fear that drives worried property owners to replace their roof without knowing that drastic action is unnecessary:
4 Reasons To Clean Your Roof
Instead of Replacing It
Q: Do roof stains contain health related considerations?
A:
Algae is not only harmful to your property, but it can be harmful to children, the elderly and those with allergy sensitivities and upper respiratory problems. According to top researchers excessive mold growth can lead to increased risk for allergies and indoor air quality issues. The prevalence of
Gloeocapsa Magma
is increasing across the U.S. as a consequence of changing weather patterns.
Q: Do you clean siding? What process is best?
A: We use the "soft-wash" proprietary process for siding, gutter exteriors, chimneys, walls, brick and a host of other exterior features. Because the solution performs the primary function of killing what we are removing, it eliminates many of the risks associated with pressure-washing. Surface material like siding and gutters should be treated gently with as little agitation as possible. When necessary, pressure washing is appropriate and often used in conjunction with soft-wash solutions to produce the best possible cleaning outcome.
Q: Why do I need to pay someone to clean my roof when I could do it myself?
A:
As with all choices in life, there is a “risk-reward ratio" that should be taken into account when considering the “Do-It-Yourself” method. We recommend you stay off of your roof and do not expose yourself to unnecessary risk for injury or death. Roofing is listed as one of the ten most dangerous jobs. Add water, solutions, hose line and ladders and you have a better understanding of why you really should let a professional take care of this maintenance issue. We have an enormous amount of service and maintenance expertise in commercial and residential properties, are fully insured and our staff has over 40 years combined experience. We offer the following additional benefits:
EXPERT ADVICE
PROFESSIONAL STAFF
RELIABLE SERVICE
Q: What is “Soft-Wash” and is it the same as “Pressure-Wash”?
A: The
House Shampoo
soft-wash roof cleaning system uses no more pressure than that of a garden hose. We use a proprietary algaecide that is applied through the nozzle of a low-pressure wash wand. The application rests for a period of time allowing the algae, lichen or moss to die, dry out and release. Finally, a clear water rinse is applied at the same low rate of pressure to remove remaining residues and dead material. Under NO circumstances should asphalt shingles be treated with a pressure-washer. Every effort should be made to minimize dislodging the granules that form the exterior surface of the shingle. Pressure washing has a place in exterior cleaning … just never on the roof.
Q: How long does a “house shampoo” last?
A:
After a cleaning, recurrence ultimately depends on the location of the property. Wooded areas, lake properties, lowlands, etc., are all more susceptible to algae infestation. We recommend scheduling follow-up visits every 2-3 years as preventative maintenance. A preventative treatment is less radical than the original cleaning process, and so is the expense.
Q:
Will the products you spray on my roof hurt my landscaping or pets?
A:
The cleaning solutions we use are safe, phosphate-free and biodegradable. We recommend that residents and pets remain indoors during treatment application. The
HOUSE SHAMPOO
solutions are confined to the work area with no-pressure application and “time-out” 45-120 minutes after application. The preparation and treatment of surrounding areas include ongoing rinsing that ensures the safety of your landscaping and property. We have a high level of confidence that when the treatment is completed the evidence will speak for itself -- your property will be vastly improved. - no damage done.
Q:
How much is this going to cost?
A:
Many factors go into determining the cost of a
HOUSE SHAMPOO
professional roof cleaning
.
The number of stories, the roof pitch and dimensions, the degree of infestation and the surrounding environment. Labor, materials and insurance costs are also relative components of pricing. The value generated from a professional roof cleaning will be obvious. Cost tends to run approximately 5-8% of a full roof replacement.
Q: What should we expect the day of the job?
A:
Upon arrival a
HOUSE SHAMPOO
a team technician will greet you and go over the job details. Once they confirm the scope of work, our staff will photo-document all aspects of the job. We move furniture and other items to a safe distance from the building so that the work area is secured. We tarp select landscaping and thoroughly fresh-water mist/soak all other landscaping, walks, decks and driveways in the immediate work area throughout the process. Prior to cleaning your roof, we remove loose debris from your roof and gutters. Final steps include clean up, equipment removal, furniture replacement, and the application of plant wash to all vegetation in the surrounding work area. This is followed by a final inspection and post photo-documentation of the job site.
Q: How long does a roof cleaning take?
A:
On average, a roof cleaning takes between 3-6 hours depending on the specifics of the job. We work from the top down, so if your contract includes work below the roof line the work time will increase accordingly.
Q: What do I need to do to prepare for the big work day?
A:
All fragile items such as solar lights, bird baths, potted plants and personal belongings should be safely stored away. Vehicles must be moved a minimum of 100 feet from the exterior walls of the building. For your safety, while we are applying our solutions and working with ladders, hoses and equipment around the perimeter of your home,
stay indoors and keep all pets INDOORS.
All windows and doors MUST be closed. Please refrain from excess water usage during our visit to assure adequate water pressure. We required two (2) outdoor working water spigots. We tarp as needed.
Q: What other services do you offer?
A:
We clean siding, decks, gutters, sidewalks, driveways, walls, furniture and awnings using soft-wash and power wash equipment. Staff includes skilled tradesmen with expertise in roofing repairs that may be required prior to conducting a roof cleaning. Additional services include siding/soffit/fascia installations, gutters, leaf protection, flashing and tuck-pointing. Just ask!
Q: Do you work if it is going to rain?
A:
We do not work in the rain, high winds or other dangerous weather conditions. This business is weather dependent and safety is #1 for our crews and for your property. We will notify you of any appointment that requires rescheduling due to weather-related issues.
Q: Do you carry insurance?
A:
We are fully insured and carry General Liability, Workers Compensation
Q: Do you warranty your work?
A:
We offer a 2-Year Limited Warranty with optional extended warranties available.
Q: Do I have to be home when you do my job?
A:
No, however we may need to contact you regarding a matter requiring immediate attention - an emergency contact number will be required.
Q: Does your company accept credit cards?
A:
Payment can be made by cash, check or credit card - (Visa, MasterCard, Discover. PayPal). Payment by phone is available OR safely use Intuit
PAY NOW
button on your final invoice.
Q: When do I have to pay for the work?
A:
Payment is required the day of the job. If there is anything you are not satisfied with, it will be corrected under the terms of the warranty as soon as possible.
Serving the Greater NW Chicago, IL
& Lake Geneva, WI areas
© Copyright 2025 House Shampoo, Inc. All Rights Reserved
