“Out of sight, out of mind” is a term that many homeowners refer to when it comes to maintenance of exterior surfaces, and especially the roof. Whether algae buildup on PV panels causes electric bill spikes, or the presence of dark colored stains on the roof, regular and scheduled maintenance to mitigate this growth should be front of mind for every homeowner here in Hawaii.
Our humid and tropical climate is the perfect environment for organic growth to flourish. Moss and algae buildup is common here, especially in the mauka neighborhoods where rain is a daily occurrence. Besides being unsightly and slippery, organic growth can become a huge issue if left alone. Moss is highly destructive over time, and airborne mold spores can even lead to respiratory problems. All exterior surfaces like roofs, siding, driveways and PV panels are susceptible to pesky organic growth and should be maintained regularly to avoid long-term problems. A professional cleaning will not only spruce up your outdoor space but can also greatly extend the useful life of your exterior surfaces.
The most common and destructive type of organic growth here in Hawaii is an algae-like cyanobacteria called Gloeocapsa magma. Found mostly on roof surfaces, Gloeocapsa magma is highly destructive to shingle-style roofs as it feasts on the limestone filler and granules embedded in asphalt shingles. Over time, the roof’s ability to reflect UV rays is vastly diminished causing shingles to dry out, curl and eventually crack. Gloeocapsa magma is common on all roof types but tends to be most visible on asphalt shingle, cap sheet, TPO, GACO and elastomeric roof coatings. As the bacteria colonies grow, they form dark discolorations that can also create a serious issue with heat absorption throughout the whole house. As your ceiling fans and A/C units work overtime to compensate for the heat buildup, the biggest impact of all is on your energy bill.
The safest and most effective way to eliminate this destructive growth is a process called soft washing. Soft washing is a gentle and highly effective cleaning technique that uses low water pressure and a biodegradable cleaning solution to eliminate organic growth down to the root, ensuring a longer lasting clean.
One of Hawaii’s leaders in soft washing and exterior maintenance is locally owned and operated Pacific Spray Wash. The company specializes in maintaining the functionality and aesthetics of residential and commercial spaces here in Hawaii.
To learn more about soft washing, call Pacific Spray Wash at 808-763-9298 or visit pacificspraywash.com for a free, no hassle consultation on how you can revitalize your outdoor space today!
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