When you rely on your home to provide you with comfort and shelter, you can't take any risks with its ability to keep water outdoors where it belongs. Great roofing is instrumental in the fight against the elements, because it helps to create the kind of environment you need to keep your home and family safe. Unfortunately, there are many homes that don't have strong, reliable roofs, which can cause problems in the long run. On this website, check out excellent ways to spot roofing problems and resolve them quickly. After all, your home is your most valuable asset, so protect it now.
After seeing areas of discoloration on your home's roof where it stays shaded, you may have looked closer to find that there is mold growing on the shingles. Since you cannot see any visible damage to the roof, you may believe that the fungal growth only causes an issue with the structure's appearance.
However, mold can be detrimental to your roof. As soon you discover it growing on your shingles, you need to have a roofing professional inspect the roof and take care of the mold for a couple of reasons as discussed below.
1. Mold Growth on Your Roof Usually Indicates a Problem with Moisture
One reason you need to have a roofer inspect your roof after you discover mold growing on it is that its presence usually indicates a moisture problem. Since mold needs a constant supply of water to survive and thrive, it may have found it either within or underneath the shingles.
If so, there could be a leak somewhere that is allowing water to seep in under the shingles and provide a source of moisture for the mold. Not only will the mold need to be removed, but the roofer will have to locate the damaged area causing the leak.
2. Mold Spreads to the Decking and Weakens Both the Shingles and Wood
Another reason you need to have a professional check out your roof when it has mold growing on it is that the fungal growth spread quickly both on top and under the shingles. Under the shingles, the mold will start to take root in the wood decking that gives your roof its structure and support.
Because mold excretes a substance that breaks down structures of the roof, creating more water leaks and weakening the shingles and decking. If not taken care of by a roofing professional as soon as possible, you may end up having to replace part or all of the roof.
If you have discovered mold growing on your roof's shingles, you need to have a professional inspect the structure for damage. Since mold needs ample moisture to thrive, there could be a problem with water leaking underneath the shingles. It can also spread to the decking, weakening both it and the shingles, which may make it necessary to repair or replace parts of the roof. As soon as you confirm the presence of mold, contact a roofing contractor in your area to set up a time to have them come and fully inspect your roof so they can discuss with you what needs to be done.
For more information, contact a roofing contractor near you.