New Zealand’s lush climate provides the perfect breeding ground for a host of unsightly microorganisms, including mould, algae, and lichen. These organisms not only detract from the aesthetics of your home, but they also pose health risks and may lead to structural damage if left unchecked.
North Shore House Wash offers a comprehensive moss, mould and lichen roof treatment that is affordable and gentle on your roofing materials.
Mould
The lush climate of New Zealand provides an ideal breeding ground for mould, algae, and lichen to take root on your roof and exterior surfaces. Although they may not pose immediate health risks, they can lead to structural damage if left unchecked. Regular inspections and cleaning are the best way to prevent their spread.
Mould grows on moist surfaces, releasing spores that can be inhaled and trigger respiratory problems and allergies. It also damages the integrity of your roofing material, causing deterioration and leaks.
Moss, lichen and mould growth can be prevented by regularly cleaning your gutters and by using a commercially applied moss, lichen and mould treatment. The product kills moss, lichen and mould, then the rain naturally breaks down and washes them away over time. It is best to use a product that doesn’t contain bleach products or chlorine as these can damage your roof surface.
Algae
Algae are photosynthetic eukaryotic organisms from the kingdom Protista. They can be single cells (microalgae) or multicellular, ranging in size from the microscopic algae Chlorella and diatoms to the large brown alga called giant kelp which may grow to 50 metres. Algae are generally considered to be photoautotrophic, but some are also capable of growing heterotrophically on a range of organic substrates and can use both modes of growth (mixotrophic).
They are found worldwide in marine and freshwater environments and can be found alone or in association with fungi as lichens. Algae have important ecological functions, such as forming the base of aquatic food chains and supplying much of the oxygen we breathe, and are a source of many products used in human health and industry. The taxonomy of algae is complex and changing rapidly as new molecular information becomes available. The term “algae” is often used to refer to a wide diversity of organisms, from multiple phylogenetic groups, and is therefore not strictly accurate.
Lichen
Lichen is a symbiotic combination of fungus and algae that can survive in a variety of climate conditions. Its mildly acidic nature erodes surfaces it grows on, and its ability to absorb moisture makes it particularly hard to remove by water blast cleaning or scrubbing. Lichen can cause serious damage to roofs, especially if left unchecked. Its spores can penetrate into the surface of any material, and eventually lead to leaks and expensive repairs.
Lichen growths require moist air, a solid substrate that doesn’t move (i.e. a roof), and nutrients which are provided by bird droppings, dirt, and other organic debris. Unfortunately, these conditions are common in New Zealand, making lichen one of the most difficult types of organic growth to keep at bay.
Moss, mould and lichen are not just unsightly, they can also damage your roof, resulting in leaks and costly repairs. A commercial grade moss, mould and lichen treatment from North Shore House Wash can kill these organisms and leave the surface clean for up to two years.
Roof Cleaning
A clean roof will improve your home’s street appeal and help extend its lifespan. It can also prevent damage caused by unsightly moss, algae and lichen.
There are several methods of washing a roof, including power washing, chemical treatments and manual scrubbing. All have their pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
A specialised roof treatment is an effective way to remove moss, algae and lichen from your roof without damaging it. These organisms are abrasive and can cause surface damage if not treated. They can rust metals, erode concrete and tarpaulin, discolour roof tiles and deteriorate the structural integrity of your cladding. Leaving them untreated will result in costly repair work or even the need for a roof replacement. Regular moss and algae treatment and roof wash Auckland will prevent these problems from developing.