When you think about home maintenance, your roof probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. It’s up there quietly doing its job — until one day, you notice dark streaks, moss patches, or a dull, weathered look that seems to have appeared overnight.
At Green Mountain Shine, we see this all the time. Vermont’s mix of moisture, shade, and changing seasons makes it the perfect environment for moss, algae, and lichen to grow on shingle roofs. It might seem like a purely cosmetic issue, but it’s much more than that.
What’s really happening up there?
Those black streaks you see? They’re often caused by an algae called Gloeocapsa magma. It actually feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles — slowly breaking them down and shortening your roof’s lifespan. Moss and lichen take it a step further, trapping moisture and lifting the edges of shingles. Over time, that can lead to rot, leaks, and energy loss.
The Vermont factor
Our roofs here face tough conditions: snow, rain, ice, shade, and humid summers. These all encourage organic growth and debris build-up. Without cleaning, that buildup doesn’t just look bad — it locks in moisture and accelerates wear. For a roof that should last 20–25 years, you could be shaving off years of protection without even realizing it.
The right way to clean your roof
A lot of people worry that cleaning might damage their roof — and they’re right to be cautious. High-pressure washing can strip granules off shingles and cause more harm than good. That’s why we use a soft-wash method — a low-pressure application of biodegradable cleaners that safely remove algae, moss, and stains without damaging the shingles.
The result?
- A roof that looks years younger
- Improved energy efficiency (a clean roof reflects heat better)
- Protection from long-term damage
- Better curb appeal — and in Vermont’s real estate market, that can make a real difference
A simple step that saves big
Think of roof cleaning as preventive care for your home. Just like changing your oil or cleaning your gutters, it keeps things running smoothly and avoids costly repairs later. Most homeowners only need a professional soft wash every few years to keep their roof healthy and looking great.
At Green Mountain Shine, we’re proud to help our neighbors across Vermont protect their homes and keep them looking their best — from roof to siding, windows, gutters, and patios.
If you’ve noticed those dark streaks or green patches creeping across your shingles, it might be time for a refresh. Give your roof (and your home) a new lease on life — it’ll thank you for it.
Mark Monaghan Owner, Green Mountain Shine Serving Vermont homes with care, quality, and a little local pride. 🌐 www.greenmountainshine.com