What Causes Those Black Streaks on Your Roof? Gloeocapsa Magma Bacteria!

Get a Free Quote!
what causes black streaks on roof gleocapsa magma

The Brief

Most black streaks found on roofs are not mold. Learn about the telltale signs of other common roof problems and what to do about them.
Related Reading:

Imagine this. You’re cutting your lawn, and you notice your neighbor’s roof has those ugly black streaks running down it. You turn around, look at your roof, and see the same thing! What gives?

The black or brown discoloration is frequently mistaken for dirt or soot when, actually, it is a species of bacteria called Gloeocapsa Magma. These bacteria are transported through the air and land on the exterior surface areas of your home, including your roof, where it feeds and grows.

In addition to creating unsightly black streaks, these bacteria feed on the limestone filler in shingles. This can cause significant damage and deterioration to your roof.

Your roof isn’t simply stained — it’s infected!

This post will discuss:

  • What are Gloeocapsa Magma bacteria?
  • How do these bacteria cause black streaks on your roof?
  • What kind of damage can these bacteria do to your roof?
  • How can you eliminate Gloeocapsa Magma bacteria and prevent them from returning?

So let’s get started…

What are Gloeocapsa Magma Bacteria?

Gloeocapsa magma is a photosynthetic cyanobacterium that consists of a small group of algae spores. It is responsible for the black/dark green stains on roofs. These black stains are the bacteria themselves, in mass amounts, covering the surface of the roof shingles.

gloeocapsa causes black streaks on roofs
gloeocapsa causes black streaks on roofs

Or, to put it more simply, Gloeocapsa Magma are tiny organisms that travel through the air and land on your roof. Once they’re on your roof, they start to reproduce and create unsightly black streaks.

How do Gloeocapsa Magma Bacteria Cause Black Streaks on Your Roof?

As we briefly mentioned before, Gloeocapsa Magma are transported through the air and land on your roof. Once they’re on your roof, they start to reproduce and create unsightly black streaks.

These black streaks are actually the bacteria themselves, in mass amounts, covering the surface of the roof shingles.

What Kind of Damage Can Gloeocapsa Magma Bacteria Do to Your Roof?

In addition to creating unsightly black streaks, Gloeocapsa Magma bacteria feed on the limestone filler in shingles. This can cause significant damage and deterioration to your roof.

Other than the visual damage they cause, these bacteria can also shorten the lifespan of your roof and lead to more severe problems down the line.

How Can You Get Rid of Gloeocapsa Magma Bacteria and Prevent Them from Coming Back?

The best way to get rid of Gloeocapsa Magma bacteria is to contact a professional roof cleaning company.

All Around SoftWash uses state-of-the-art equipment along with a proprietary bio-degradable solution that not only cleans but completely sanitizes & eradicates stain-causing bacteria by killing 100% of these organisms.

All Around Softwash uses the only technique that is recommended by the Asphalt Roof Manufacturers Association and is stated in all major shingles warranty coverage as the only safe way to clean shingles and maintain your roof’s full warranty.

If you’re concerned about Gloeocapsa Magma bacteria on your roof, contact All Around SoftWash today for a free estimate. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and help you get your roof back to its original condition.

Scroll to Top