In today's blog post we're going to give you a little insight on Atlas' Scotchgard Protector technology, how it works, what it's made from and more.
Have you ever been driving through your subdivision and noticed black streaks or green growth on roofs in your area? We’re not talking an attractive shade of forest green here—but a distinctively slimy, streaky kind of green. Definitely not attractive, and neither is it good for your roof!
This is not some sort of harmless, pretty moss that’s taking root in the shingles. It’s an algae that’s quite common here in Michigan, called Gloeocapsa magma, and it loves to entrench itself in roofs so it can feed on the limestone in asphalt shingles.
Sounds like an alien creature in a horror movie, doesn’t it?
Well, while we know that Gloeocapsa magma isn’t alien, we do know that the damage it causes can be a bit of a nightmare for homeowners.
It all starts in a humid environment. Unfortunately, if you live in Michigan, you aren’t going to be immune to those types of conditions, especially in the summer. The asphalt in your shingles attracts primary colonizing bacteria, the most prevalent being the aforementioned Gloeocapsa magma.
It’s a mold—a cyanobacteria—that eats away at the calcium carbonate in your shingles. As time goes on, your poor roof will begin to look a lot worse for wear, and the green patches will eventually turn into black streaks, making your once-lovely house look like a disaster. Not only will it reduce the value of your home, it shortens the lifespan of your roof and may even void your warranty.
Oh, and it also comes with nasty health risks, by the way.
There’s an easy solution! Prevention is practically guaranteed with the installment of Scotchgard Protector shingles.
How do Scotchgard Protector Shingles work?
These remarkable shingles contain copper, and copper ions act as a natural repellent to algae. When it rains, Scotchgard Protector shingles release tiny amounts of copper ions, which stop the algae in its tracks, so Gloeocapsa magma doesn’t stand a chance.
With a lifespan of over 25 years, Scotchgard Protector shingles are completely safe for the environment. The copper content is so low as not to harm plants or soil, only algae. And they are EPA-approved.
At Roofing Army, we’ve been installing Scotchgard-protected roofs across Oakland County for a few years now. We’re happy to say that 98% of homeowners report zero algae growth within the first five years. As an example, the Henderson family in Rochester Hills tell us that their 2018 Scotchgard roof still looks factory-fresh, despite Michigan’s relentless humidity.
You will initially pay 10 to 15% more than you would for standard asphalt.
But …
Oh, yes. You can choose from eight earthy tones, from Slate Gray to Forest Green—colors that blend in with Lake Orion’s natural beauty.
They won’t crack or fade, and can endure Michigan’s wild temperature swings, from -10°F winters to 90°F summers, with ease.
And they’re eco-friendly, too, reducing the need for harsh chemical cleanings. This helps protect our local waterways like Paint Creek and Lake Orion.
A: Unfortunately, no. The copper granules are integrated during manufacturing. But if you’re due for a replacement, it’s a perfect upgrade.
A: Yes—though shaded, damp areas are usually perfect for the development of algae, Scotchgard will still work its magic.
A: Just keep gutters clear and trim overhanging branches. No scrubbing required!
A: Yes. Atlas backs Scotchgard with a limited lifetime warranty, covering algae resistance and material defects.
Visit the Atlas roofing website to learn more about the benefits of Scotchgard technology and more in depth specifications/data.
Schedule a free inspection with Roofing Army. We’ll assess your roof, walk you through financing options, and even show you how Scotchgard shingles can eliminate the headache of black streaks and algae on your home.
Call us today at 248-326-2020!
