InspectAPedia.com InspectAPedia®
 

Free Encyclopedia of Building & Environmental Inspection, Testing, Diagnosis, Repair

Ask a Question or Search InspectAPedia

  • HOME
  • AIR CONDITIONING
  • ELECTRICAL
  • EXTERIORS
  • HEATING
  • HOME INSPECTION
  • INTERIORS
  • PLUMBING
  • ROOFING
  • SEPTIC SYSTEMS
  • STRUCTURE
  • WATER SUPPLY
  • ENERGY SAVINGS
  • ENVIRONMENT
  • INDOOR AIR IAQ
  • INSULATION
  • MOLD INSPECT TEST REMOVE
  • NOISE
  • ODORS
  • SOLAR ENERGY
  • VENTILATION
  • EXPERTS DIRECTORY
  • CONTACT US


Mobile Phone/PDA website viewMobile View
ROOFING INSPECTION & REPAIR

AGE OF ROOFING
ALUMINUM ROOFING
AMERICAN CEMWOOD ROOFING
ARCHITECTURE & BUILDING COMPONENT ID

ASBESTOS IDENTIFICATION IN buildings
ASBESTOS CEMENT & FIBER CEMENT ROOFING
ASBESTOS MATERIAL REGULATIONS
ASBESTOS REGULATION Update

ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES
  ASPHALT SHINGLE DEFINITIONS
  ASPHALT SHINGLE FAILURE TYPES
  ASPHALT SHINGLE INSTALLATION
  ASPHALT SHINGLE LIFE / WEAR FACTORS
  ASPHALT SHINGLE PROPERTIES
  ASPHALT SHINGLE RE-ROOF GUIDE
  ASPHALT SHINGLE UNDERLAYMENT SPECS
  ASPHALT SHINGLE VALLEY FLASHING
  ASPHALT SHINGLES on VERY STEEP ROOFS
  ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS COMPARED
  ALGAE STAINS ON ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES
  ALGAE STAIN TEST METHODS
  ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS on SHINGLES
  BLACK STAIN REMOVAL & PREVENTION
  BLISTERS on ASPHALT SHINGLES
  CRACKS in FIBERGLASS SHINGLES
  CUPPING ASPHALT SHINGLES
  CURLING ASPHALT SHINGLES
  EARLY ASPHALT SHINGLE FAILURE
  EXTRACTIVE BLEEDING on SHINGLES
  FISHMOUTHING ASPHALT SHINGLES
  GRANULE LOSS from SHINGLES
  HAIL DAMAGED SHINGLES
  LADDERING & STAIR STEPPING SHINGLES
  LIFE / WEAR FACTORS in SHINGLES
  MECHANICAL DAMAGE of SHINGLES
  MOSS & LICHENS on SHINGLES
  ORGANIC FELT SHINGLE DEFECTS
  SPLICE DEFECTS on ASPHALT SHINGLES
  STAINS on ROOF SHINGLES
  WHAT ARE ASPHALT SHINGLES
  WIND DAMAGE to ROOFS

BEST ROOFING PRACTICES
BUILDING SAFETY HAZARDS GUIDE
BUILT UP ROOFS

CEMWOOD ROOFING
CERTIFICATIONS for ROOFING CONTRACTORS

CHIMNEY INSPECTION & REPAIRS
Chimney Flashing Mistakes & Leaks

CHOOSING A ROOFING CONTRACTOR

CLAY TILE ROOFING
CLAY, CONCRETE, FIBER CEMENT ROOF TILES
COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
CORRUGATED ROOFING
COPPER ROOFING

DEBRIS STAINING on ROOFS

DECKS, ROOFTOP CONSTRUCTION
DEFINITIONS of ENGINEERED WOOD OSB LVL etc
DISASTERS: BUILDING INSPECTION & REPAIR SAFEY

EARLY ROOF FAILURE DIAGNOSTIC QUESTIONS
ENERGY SAVINGS in buildings
EPDM ROOFS
EXTRACTIVE BLEEDING on SHINGLES

FELT UNDERLAYMENT REQUIREMENTS

FIBER CEMENT & FIBERBOARD ROOFING

FIRE RATINGS for ROOF SURFACES
FIRE RETARDANT PLYWOOD

FLASHING, ASPHALT SHINGLE VALLEYS
FLASHING, CLAY TILE ROOFS
FLASHING MEMBRANES PEEL & STICK
FLASHING for METAL ROOFS
FLASHING ROOF WALL DETAILS
FLASHING ROOF-WALL SNAFU
FLASHING SIDING DETAILS
FLASHING WALL DETAILS
FLASHING WOOD ROOF DETAILS

FLAT ROOF MOISTURE & CONDENSATION

GALVANIC SCALE & METAL CORROSION
Green House or Solarium Roof Leaks
GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS

HAIL DAMAGED SHINGLES
HEAT TAPES & CABLES on Roofs for Ice Dams
HOT ROOF DESIGNS: Un-Vented Roof Solutions
HOUSEWRAP INSTALLATION DETAILS
HUMIDITY LEVEL TARGET

ICE DAM PREVENTION
INSULATION IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT

LEAD POISONING HAZARDS GUIDE
LEAKY ROOF DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR
LEED GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATION
LOW SLOPE ROOFING
MEMBRANE ROOFS
METAL ROOFING
MODIFIED BITUMEN ROOFING

NOISE CONTROL for ROOFS

NOISE / SOUND DIAGNOSIS & CURE

PLASTIC ROOFING TYPES

ROLL ROOFING, ASPHALT
ROOF ARCHITECTURAL STYLES - PHOTO GUIDE
ROOF CLEANING RECOMMENDATIONS
ROOF DORMER TYPES - PHOTO GUIDE
ROOF INSPECTION SAFETY & LIMITS
ROOF SLOPE DEFINITIONS

ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS
ROOF VENTING ENERGY SAVING DETAILS

ROOFING FELT UNDERLAYMENT REQUIREMENTS
ROOFING MATERIALS, Age, Types

ROOF NOISE TRANSMISSION
ROOFING TILE SHAPES & PROFILES

ROOFING UNDERLAYMENT BEST PRACTICES

SADDLE CONSTRUCTION at CHIMNEYS
SLATE ROOF INSPECTION & REPAIR
SNOW GUARDS on SLATE & METAL ROOFS
SOD ROOFING
SOUND CONTROL in buildings

STAIN & BIODETERIORATION AGENT CATALOG
STAINS on buildings - QUICK GUIDE
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING EXTERIORS
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING INTERIORS
STAINS on INDOOR SURFACES: PHOTO GUIDE
STAINS & Thermal Tracking
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on ROOFS
  Causes of Roof Stains
  Catalog of All Roof Stains
  ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS on SHINGLES
  ALGAE STAIN TEST METHODS
  ALGAE STAINS ON ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES
  Catalog of Black Roof Stains
  Black or Green Algae
  Black Stain Removal & Prevention
  Bleed-Through
  Chimney-Caused Roof Stains
  Debris Staining on Roofs
  EXTRACTIVE BLEEDING on SHINGLES
  Lichens on Roofs
  Moss on Roofs
  Power Washing Roofs
  Rust Stains on Shingles
  Soot Staining on Roofs
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on STONE
  Colors & Stains on Stone
  Black Stains on Stone
  Green Stains on Stone
  Red or Other Colors on Stone
  Brown or Tan Colors on Stone
  Lichens on Stone Surfaces
  Catalog of Substances that Alter Stone, Glass, Steel
  Methods for Cleaning Stone Surfaces
  Guide to Types of Stains

STANDARDS for ROOFING
STONE CLEANING METHODS
STONE ROOFING
STRESS SKIN INSULATED PANELS

TEST LABS - ROOF SHINGLE
THATCH ROOFING
TREES & SHRUBS, TRIM OFF BUILDING

WALK-ON ROOF SURFACES
WARRANTIES for ROOF SHINGLES

WIND DAMAGE to ROOFS

WOOD SHAKE & SHINGLE ROOFING

WORKMANSHIP & ROOF DAMAGE

ZINC METAL ROOFING

More Information

Photograph of  black stains on this asphalt shingle roof Guide to Stains on Building Roof Surfaces, Cause, Cure, Prevention
InspectAPedia®  -         

  • Online guide to black, brown, green, and other stains on building roof surfaces
  • Diagnostic Guide to Types of Stains and Staining Materials Found on Roof Surfaces
  • Causes, cure, and prevention of black stains on roof shingles
  • How to trim trees and shrubs away from a building roof or walls
  • Questions & Answers about roof stains & tree trimming

This document tells readers how to identify & explain the most-common causes of black, brown, red, gray, green, or white stains appearing on roof shingles and on other building surfaces. Roof shingle stains are often caused by black algae, bleed-through or extractive bleeding of asphalt, dirt, soot, or organic debris.

InspectAPedia offers impartial, unbiased advice without conflicts of interest. We will block advertisements which we discover or readers inform us are associated with bad business practices, false-advertising, or junk science. Our contact info is at InspectAPedia.com/Contact.htm.

There are many sources of roof staining and they vary in significance, from cosmetic to harmful to the roof. Here we give an index of all sorts of roof stains and what causes them.

For the diagnosis and cure of other building stains, see STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING EXTERIORS and STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING INTERIORS. For roofing material testing services and shingle testing see TEST LABS - ROOF SHINGLE. As we discuss at Power Washing Roofs we do not recommend power-washing asbestos-cement nor any other roofing. See Black Stain Removal & Prevention for advice on diagnosing, cleaning, and preventing stains on roofing.

The remedies for and means of preventing stains on roof shingles are discussed as well. In the photo shown here, the black stains on the lower roofs are bleed-through or extractive bleeding. The upper roof, shaded by the large tree in the photo, was also moss covered. Notice the streak of "clean" roof shingles that lack the stains on the upper roof near its left edge? Those shingles were installed down-roof from an aluminum attic vent fan cover. The aluminum salts washing off of the fan cover prevented moss, lichens, and algae from growing on those shingles.

Also see ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS on SHINGLES where we describe not only moss and lichens but black fungal stains on asphalt shingles and other roof types.

© Copyright 2012 InspectAPedia.com, All Rights Reserved. Information Accuracy & Bias Pledge is at below-left. Use page top links to major topics or use links at the left of each page to navigate within topics and documents at this website. Green links show where you are in a document series or at this website.

How to Distinguish Roof Stain by Type of Cause

As stated in Best Practices Guide to Residential Construction:

Black streaks on shingles caused by algae or fungal growth used to be limited to warm, humid climates, but now this can be seen on houses as far north as Canada. Some experts attribute the spread to the increased use of crushed limestone as a filler material in asphalt shingles.

Limestone is economical and makes a durable shingle, but the calcium carbonate in the limestone supports algae growth. In algae-resistant (AR) shingles, zinc or copper granules are mixed in with the colored stone topping. When the shingles get wet, the zinc or copper is released, inhibiting algae growth.

Warranties for algae resistance are usually for less than 10 years since the protection ends when the mineral washes away. Some shingles have longer lasting protection than others due to a higher percentage of AR granules.

For distinguishing between an algae growing on shingles and a fungus growing on roof shingles, building or environmentally-caused roof staining, or other causes, here are several approaches:

Visual Roof Inspection & Roof Stain Area Context Help Diagnose Cause of Roof Stains

Proximate cause roof shingle stains

Roof stain or lichens or moss caused by trees (C) Daniel Friedman Roof stain caused by chimney(C) Daniel Friedman

If you see a roof stain that develops only in limited areas of a single roof slope look for a relation between the stained area and a proximate cause such as a sooty chimney top or a tree that shades that section of the roof or drops organic debris onto it.

These include tree shade caused moss, tree-shade caused lichens growth on a roof, or dark stains on roof coverings caused by organic debris such as leaves and sticks that fall onto and collect on the roof surface (photo at left). Our photo at above right shows brown stains below a metal roof chimney. Probably more important, this chimney has lost its cap, risking damage to and unsafe conditions at the building heating equipment.

See Debris Staining (trees), see ALGAE STAINS ON ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES (algae) and Soot Staining(chimneys).

Roofing material defect / environmentally-caused roof shingle stains.

Extractive bleeding roof stains (C) Daniel Friedman Extractive bleeding roof stains (C) Daniel Friedman

Our stained asphalt roof shingle photo at above lefty show black extractive bleeding stains on roof shingles colored other than white. Even on darker shingles these effects may occur. See Black Bleed-Through or Extractive Bleeding Black Stains on Asphalt Shingles. Click to enlarge our stained shingles photo at above left and you may also notice vertical cracks running up through shingles to the left of the dormer.

This roof may also have a defective roof product causing splitting shingles (see CRACKS in FIBERGLASS SHINGLES). We're not certain about the cause of the staining at above right. It is probably extractive bleeding but a second candidate might be roof algae. We need a closer look.

If the stain pattern on a roof surface occurs across the entire field of the roof and independent of proximate causes like chimneys or trees, it is more likely due either to the roofing material itself (possibly extractive bleeding), the overall environment (downwind from a chemical plant or incinerator or factory), or due to the slope' orientation (North slope, cooler, East or West roof slope -more sunlight). See ASPHALT SHINGLE LIFE / WEAR FACTORS for a discussion of sunlight effect on roof life.

While we have not confirmed its presence, some black stains on roofs and roof gutters might be due to black molds or sooty molds, for which the USDA has published How to Recognize & Control Sooty Molds. Black mold growth on leaves, on roof debris that has fallen from a tree overhead, or on an aluminum roof gutter, is not a predictor that any of the species discussed in the USDA article will appear as black "sooty mold" growth on a roof shingle.

The chemistry of roof shingles, their granule coverings, and substrates is quite different from other organic substances that are home to many molds. Further, many newer shingle products include chemicals to retard black algae growth that may also retard mold growth. Specific mold genera/species like to grow on particular surfaces - it's their food, and while
some molds are more choosy than others (for example mildews grow only on living plants), you'll need to look carefully at a roof and the conditions around it (such as trees, and areas of sun or shade) and perhaps even sample the black debris to determine if it is mold and if so what is its species.

The roof cleaning methods to remove black algae will probably work well for black mold growth on a roof as well.

Roofing material defect / installation / structurally-caused roof shingle stains

If you see roof staining or defects that occur on all roof slopes regardless of slope orientation or presence/absence of proximate causes (chimneys, trees) then the condition may be due to roofing material, its installation, or the building itself (inadequate under roof venting).

Forensic sampling of Roof Stain Material

A simple collection of the stained roof surface material using clear adhesive tape followed by a laboratory analysis by an experienced microscopist is conclusive. We don't recommend lab sampling of shingle stains in most cases but if you want to sample a stain material for analysis in our forensic laboratory, instructions are at Six Easy Steps to Get and Mail a Mold Test Kit. Don't bother worrying about mildew on your roof. Mildew is an obligate parasite which grows only on living plants. Unless your roof is covered with grapes it is not likely to have much mildew there.

Also see TEST LABS - ROOF SHINGLE for chemical and durability tests on roofing materials.

How to trim trees and shrubs away from a building roof or walls

Tree through roof chimneyTupper Lake NY (C) D FriedmanWhile most home inspectors will agree that we ought to keep shrubs at least 24" off of building walls, and that trees within five feet of a building wall risk damaging the structure by root pressure or impace, we don't think that there is an arbitrary correct distance for trimming trees back around a roof.

Our photo (left) shows the dramatic measures that a building owner followed to avoid removing a tree that was really too close to the building - in this case in Tupper Lake, NY.

For tree trimming advice, it is more useful to explain the objects of trimming trees away from a building so that the homeowner or maintenance worker can determine what is needed to meet those objectives at a particlar site. Here are some objectives to meet when trimming trees that may be close to a building:

  1. Remove or trim large or tall sick trees: We don't want a big tree in poor health to fall or be blown onto the building, say in a storm, so it's important to cut off dead branches entirely and to have an tree expert assess the health of large trees near a building. Watch out: some "tree experts" just love to cut everything down. Consult experienced tree service companies, or an arborist is a real tree expert who knows not only trimming procedures but how to assess tree health. Also trees growing within five feet of a building are more likely to send out roots that can damage the structure - with the risk varying by tree species.
  2. Remove dead branches: We don't want tree branches falling onto a roof where they may cause damage and leaks - see (1) above.
  3. Prevent on-roof debris accumulation: We don't want tree leaves and debris accumulating on a roof because of both cosmetic staining and long term wear and leaks below the debris.
  4. Reduce roof gutter clogging: We sometimes also trim brack branches whose pine needles or leaves are falling into and rapidly clogging gutters. So the amount of trimming and safe distance depend on the home, roof slope, roof drainage details, and the height and health and distance of trees near the building.
  5. Reduce moss, algae, and perhaps fungal growth on some roof surfaces by reducing shade on problem areas.

Watch out: you should hesitate to remove beautiful, large, old trees at a property. Consult with a tree expert and think twice before drastic cutting or removal of trees.

Online Guide to Types of Stains on Building Roofs, Surfaces, Walls

In the following guide we list types of stains by stain color & appearance, by building location or material, and by stain cause. We distinguish among the following stuff that may stain or be found growing building roofs, walls, or other surfaces, with extra focus on asphalt shingle roofs as well as other roofing materials such as wood shingles, wood shakes, roll roofing, and even slate or tile roofs. Some of these types of roof stains or discoloration are only cosmetic in nature, while others may indicate growths that are likely to reduce the roof covering life. A more detailed, illustrated version of the list below is given at STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING EXTERIORS.

  • Algae-caused black or green stains on roof or other building surfaces - Some photos of black algae stains are at Black Algae Stains on Asphalt Shingles. For details on roof algae see ALGAE STAINS ON ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES, and ALGAE STAIN TEST METHODS. Algae can produce black stains on asphalt roofing products. Also see  ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS COMPARED. And see STAIN DIAGNOSIS on STONE for examples of algae staining on other building surfaces.
  • Black stains on asphalt roofing products such as asphalt shingles or roll roofing, caused by extractive bleeding (product defects) - see Bleed-Through and see Roofing material defect / environmentally-caused roof shingle stains.
  • Black, brown, or gray stains on roofing products due to debris left on the roof surface, such as piles of leaves and organic waste from nearby trees. See Debris Staining (roof debris), and see Proximate cause roof shingle stains (types of roof stain by color, location, probable cause), and see Black Bleed-Through (black bleeding stains from asphalt shingles - extractive bleeding).
  • Black or other colored chimney soot stains on roof surfaces may be caused by soot from chimneys, both wood-fired and oil-fired devices. Black or other colored stains may also appear on roof surfaces from nearby industrial activities. See Soot Staining.
  • Black stains on building interiors: such as on carpets, drywall, or trim: see STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING INTERIORS and then STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING INTERIORS and also see STAINS on INDOOR SURFACES: PHOTO GUIDE
  • Brown or red stains on roof surfaces are often caused by rust from wearing steel flashing or other on-roof metal products. See Rust Stains on Shingles.
  • Catalog of Biological Substances that Alter Stone or Other Inorganic Materials lists the causes and types of damage that raise aesthetic and conservation issues on cultural artifacts, buildings, and art works.
  • Chimney stains on roofs - see see SOOT STAINING - Black Soot Stains on Roof Shingles Around Chimneys and see Proximate cause roof shingle stains
  • Debris stains on roof shingles - see Debris Staining - Black Debris Stains on Asphalt Shingle Roofs
  • Extractive bleeding stains on asphalt roofs - see Bleed-Through and see Roofing material defect, and see Proximate cause roof shingle stains (types of roof stain by color, location, probable cause)
  • Green roof stains on roof shingles, clay tiles, cement tiles, and asbestos cement roof shingles or newer fiber cement roof shingles are often caused by algae. For details see ALGAE STAINS ON ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES. Moss on roofs is also often green and should be unmistakable in appearance. See ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS on SHINGLES.
  • Lichens growing on building surfaces - Lichens are not the same growths as moss or algae, and are difficult to remove without damaging the roof surface. See Lichens on Stone Surfaces, and also see Lichens on Roofs for details about how lichens can cause roof damage. See Methods for Cleaning Stone Surfaces and ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS on SHINGLES for a guide to preventing lichen growth and stains. Also see ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS COMPARED for an explanation of the difference among these.
  • Mold or fungus growing on roof surfaces or on other building surfaces - see ALGAE STAINS ON ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES. See FIND MOLD in buildings, HOW TO for a guide to looking for mold contamination in or on buildings, and see WHAT MOLD LOOKS LIKE for a guide to just what mold looks like on building surfaces. Be sure also to see Stuff that is Mistaken for Mold to avoid becoming excited about harmless substances that people think are toxic mold. If you know your building has a mold problem, see ACTION GUIDE - WHAT TO DO ABOUT INDOOR MOLD. Also see the USDA recommendations at How to Recognize & Control Sooty Molds.
  • Moss on roofs and other building surfaces: see ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS on SHINGLES, and Green Stains on Stone. Green or other colored mosses are a bit easier to remove than lichens on roofing surfaces, but both can carry away mineral granules and damage the roof surface. Moss tends to hold more water and moisture on the roof surface. So in our opinion moss is more likely to damage a roof surface than lichens or algae. Also see ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS COMPARED.
  • Rust Stains on buildings - see Rust Staining - Red or Brown Rust Stains (on shingles)
  • Soot or Creosote black or brown stains on roof surfaces near or below chimneys - see SOOT STAINING - Black Soot Stains on Roof Shingles Around Chimneys and see Proximate cause roof shingle stains
  • Stains on stone or masonry surfaces - see STONE CLEANING METHODS for cause, cure, and prevention
  • Tree-caused stains on roofs - see Proximate cause roof shingle stains
  • White stains on roof surfaces may be from wash-down of pigments in paint on surfaces above the roof such as a gable end or dormer wall; white or less-black roof surfaces may also be found below copper or aluminum flashing whose salts run down the roof surface in wet weather, preventing algae or moss growth and leaving a white area on an otherwise stained roof surface. Our article at ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS on SHINGLES includes a photograph of this condition on a wood shingle roof.

Questions & Answers regarding this article

Questions & Answers about types and colors of roof stains, stain diagnosis, removal, prevention, and related tree trimming away from roofs and walls

Ask a Question or Search InspectAPedia

HTML Comment Box is loading comments...

Share this Article      

...

Technical Reviewers & References

  • InspectAPedia.com® - Daniel Friedman - Publisher & Editor.
  • InspectAPedia Bookstore lists recommended books, organized by topic & available for purchase. Most of our articles also include a list of recommended books for the specific article topic as well as other references, and information sources.
  • Critique, contributions wanted: Contact Us to suggest corrections or additions to articles at this website, and if you wish, to receive online listing and credit as a contributor. Particular thanks are due to the many experts and also consumers who read and critique technical articles at InspectAPedia.com.
  • Additional technical contributors & reference sources for this article are listed below.

Use links just below or at the left of each page to navigate this document or to view other topics at this website. Green links show where you are in our document or website.

  ASPHALT SHINGLE DEFINITIONS
  ASPHALT SHINGLE FAILURE TYPES
  ASPHALT SHINGLE INSTALLATION
  ASPHALT SHINGLE LIFE / WEAR FACTORS
  ASPHALT SHINGLE PROPERTIES
  ASPHALT SHINGLE RE-ROOF GUIDE
  ASPHALT SHINGLE UNDERLAYMENT SPECS
  ASPHALT SHINGLE VALLEY FLASHING
  ASPHALT SHINGLES on VERY STEEP ROOFS
  ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS COMPARED
  ALGAE STAINS ON ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES
  ALGAE STAIN TEST METHODS
  ALGAE, FUNGUS, LICHENS, MOSS on SHINGLES
  BLACK STAIN REMOVAL & PREVENTION
  BLISTERS on ASPHALT SHINGLES
  CRACKS in FIBERGLASS SHINGLES
  CUPPING ASPHALT SHINGLES
  CURLING ASPHALT SHINGLES
  EARLY ASPHALT SHINGLE FAILURE
  EXTRACTIVE BLEEDING on SHINGLES
  FISHMOUTHING ASPHALT SHINGLES
  GRANULE LOSS from SHINGLES
  HAIL DAMAGED SHINGLES
  LADDERING & STAIR STEPPING SHINGLES
  LIFE / WEAR FACTORS in SHINGLES
  MECHANICAL DAMAGE of SHINGLES
  MOSS & LICHENS on SHINGLES
  ORGANIC FELT SHINGLE DEFECTS
  SPLICE DEFECTS on ASPHALT SHINGLES
  STAINS on ROOF SHINGLES
  WHAT ARE ASPHALT SHINGLES
  WIND DAMAGE to ROOFS

BEST ROOFING PRACTICES
BUILDING SAFETY HAZARDS GUIDE
BUILT UP ROOFS

CEMWOOD ROOFING
CERTIFICATIONS for ROOFING CONTRACTORS

CHIMNEY INSPECTION & REPAIRS
Chimney Flashing Mistakes & Leaks

CHOOSING A ROOFING CONTRACTOR

CLAY TILE ROOFING
CLAY, CONCRETE, FIBER CEMENT ROOF TILES
COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
CORRUGATED ROOFING
COPPER ROOFING

DEBRIS STAINING on ROOFS

DECKS, ROOFTOP CONSTRUCTION
DEFINITIONS of ENGINEERED WOOD OSB LVL etc
DISASTERS: BUILDING INSPECTION & REPAIR SAFEY

EARLY ROOF FAILURE DIAGNOSTIC QUESTIONS
ENERGY SAVINGS in buildings
EPDM ROOFS
EXTRACTIVE BLEEDING on SHINGLES

FELT UNDERLAYMENT REQUIREMENTS

FIBER CEMENT & FIBERBOARD ROOFING

FIRE RATINGS for ROOF SURFACES
FIRE RETARDANT PLYWOOD

FLASHING, ASPHALT SHINGLE VALLEYS
FLASHING, CLAY TILE ROOFS
FLASHING MEMBRANES PEEL & STICK
FLASHING for METAL ROOFS
FLASHING ROOF WALL DETAILS
FLASHING ROOF-WALL SNAFU
FLASHING SIDING DETAILS
FLASHING WALL DETAILS
FLASHING WOOD ROOF DETAILS

FLAT ROOF MOISTURE & CONDENSATION

GALVANIC SCALE & METAL CORROSION
Green House or Solarium Roof Leaks
GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS

HAIL DAMAGED SHINGLES
HEAT TAPES & CABLES on Roofs for Ice Dams
HOT ROOF DESIGNS: Un-Vented Roof Solutions
HOUSEWRAP INSTALLATION DETAILS
HUMIDITY LEVEL TARGET

ICE DAM PREVENTION
  Ice Dams: Comparing Two Houses
INSULATION IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT

LEAD POISONING HAZARDS GUIDE
LEAKY ROOF DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR
LEED GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATION
LOW SLOPE ROOFING
MEMBRANE ROOFS
METAL ROOFING
MODIFIED BITUMEN ROOFING

NOISE CONTROL for ROOFS

NOISE / SOUND DIAGNOSIS & CURE

PLASTIC ROOFING TYPES

ROLL ROOFING, ASPHALT
ROOF ARCHITECTURAL STYLES - PHOTO GUIDE
ROOF CLEANING RECOMMENDATIONS
ROOF DORMER TYPES - PHOTO GUIDE
ROOF INSPECTION SAFETY & LIMITS
ROOF SLOPE DEFINITIONS

ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS
ROOF VENTING ENERGY SAVING DETAILS

ROOFING FELT UNDERLAYMENT REQUIREMENTS
ROOFING MATERIALS, Age, Types

ROOF NOISE TRANSMISSION
ROOFING TILE SHAPES & PROFILES

ROOFING UNDERLAYMENT BEST PRACTICES

SADDLE CONSTRUCTION at CHIMNEYS
SLATE ROOF INSPECTION & REPAIR
SNOW GUARDS on SLATE & METAL ROOFS
SOD ROOFING

STAIN & BIODETERIORATION AGENT CATALOG
STAINS on buildings - QUICK GUIDE
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING EXTERIORS
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING INTERIORS
STAINS on INDOOR SURFACES: PHOTO GUIDE
STAINS & Thermal Tracking
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on ROOFS
  Causes of Roof Stains
  Catalog of All Roof Stains
  Catalog of Black Roof Stains
  Black or Green Algae
  Black Stain Removal & Prevention
  Bleed-Through
  Chimney-Caused Roof Stains
  Debris Staining on Roofs
  EXTRACTIVE BLEEDING on SHINGLES
  Lichens on Roofs
  Moss on Roofs
  Power Washing Roofs
  Rust Stains on Shingles
  Soot Staining

  • Roger Hankey is principal of Hankey and Brown home inspectors, Eden Prairie, MN. Mr. Hankey is a past chairman of the ASHI Technical Committee and the ASHI Standards Committee. Mr. Hankey serves as co-chairman of ASHI legislative committee, and has served in other ASHI professional and leadership roles. Contact: 952 829-0044 - hankeybrown@comcast.net
  • How to Recognize & Control Sooty Molds, USDA publication on the recognition and control of black sooty molds, including on buildings. This publication is also available in printed form from the U.S. Government Printing Office, 1992 657-152 HT-69 1992. The original article was authored by Kenneth K.Kessler, Jr., Principal Plant Pathologist, U.S. Forest Service, in the Department of Agriculture of the United States. Copies are also available from North Central Distribution Center, Forest Products Laboratory, One Gifford Pinchot Dr., Madison WI 53705-2398.
  • "Cleaning, preventing algae growth on asphalt shingles", James Kirby, Professional Roofing (NRCA), November 1996, p. 45
  • NRCA - National Roofing Contractors Association - http://www.nrca.net/, 10255 W. Higgins Road, Suite 600, Rosemont, IL 60018-5607, Tel: (847) 299-9070 Fax: (847) 299-1183

Books & Articles on Building & Environmental Inspection, Testing, Diagnosis, & Repair

  • Our recommended books about building & mechanical systems design, inspection, problem diagnosis, and repair, and about indoor environment and IAQ testing, diagnosis, and cleanup are at the InspectAPedia Bookstore. Also see our Book Reviews - InspectAPedia.
  • Home Reference Book - Carson Dunlop The Home Reference Book - the Encyclopedia of Homes, Carson Dunlop & Associates, Toronto, Ontario, 2010, $69.00 U.S., is available from Carson Dunlop. The Home Reference Book is a bound volume of more than 450 illustrated pages that assist home inspectors and home owners in the inspection and detection of problems on buildings. The text is intended as a reference guide to help building owners operate and maintain their home effectively. InspectAPedia.com ® author/editor Daniel Friedman is a contributing author. Field inspection worksheets are included at the back of the volume.
  • Best Practices Guide to Residential Construction, by Steven Bliss. John Wiley & Sons, 2006. ISBN-10: 0471648361, ISBN-13: 978-0471648369, Hardcover: 320 pages, available from Amazon.com and also Wiley.com. See our book review of this publication.
  • Decks and Porches, the JLC Guide to, Best Practices for Outdoor Spaces, Steve Bliss (Editor), The Journal of Light Construction, Williston VT, 2010 ISBN 10: 1-928580-42-4, ISBN 13: 978-1-928580-42-3, available from Amazon.com
  • The Journal of Light Construction has generously given reprint permission to InspectAPedia.com for this article. All rights and contents are ©Journal of Light Construction and may not be reproduced in any form.
  • Architectural elements: the technological revolution: Galvanized iron roof plates and corrugated sheets; cast iron facades, columns, door and window caps, ... (American historical catalog collection), Diana S Waite, available used out of Amazon.
  • Asphalt Roofing Residential Manual,
  • Building Pathology, Deterioration, Diagnostics, and Intervention, Samuel Y. Harris, P.E., AIA, Esq., ISBN 0-471-33172-4, John Wiley & Sons, 2001 [General building science-DF] ISBN-10: 0471331724 ISBN-13: 978-0471331728
  • Building Pathology: Principles and Practice, David Watt, Wiley-Blackwell; 2 edition (March 7, 2008) ISBN-10: 1405161035 ISBN-13: 978-1405161039
  • Built-Up Roof Systems, Manual, C.W. Griffin, Mcgraw-Hill (Tx); 2nd edition (July 1982), ISBN-10: 0070247838, ISBN-13: 978-0070247833
  • Concrete Folded Plate Roofs, C. Wilby PhD BSc CEng FICE FIStructE (Author), Butterworth-Heinemann, 1998, ISBN-10: 0340662662, ISBN-13: 978-0340662663
  • Concrete Shell Roofs, C. Wilby PhD BSc CEng FICE FIStructE (Author),
  • Concrete Dome Roofs (Longman Concrete Design and Construction Series),
  • Concrete Roofing Tile, History of the, Batsford, 1959, AISN B000HLLOUC (availble used)
  • Copper Roofing, by CDA
  • Copper Roofing, Master specifications for copper roofing and sheet metal work in building construction: Institutional, commercial, industrial, I.E. Anderson, 1961 (hard to find)
  • Corrugated Iron, Building on the Frontier, Simon Holloway
  • Green Roof Plants: A Resource and Planting Guide, Edmund C. Snodgrass, Lucie L. Snodgrass, Timber Press, Incorporated, 2006, ISBN-10: 0881927872, ISBN-13: 978-0881927870. The text covers moisture needs, heat tolerance, hardiness, bloom color, foliage characteristics, and height of 350 species and cultivars.
  • Green Roof Construction and Maintenance, Kelley Luckett, McGraw-Hill Professional, 2009, ISBN-10: 007160880X, ISBN-13: 978-0071608800, quoting: Key questions to ask at each stage of the green building process Tested tips and techniques for successful structural design Construction methods for new and existing buildings Information on insulation, drainage, detailing, irrigation, and plant selection Details on optimal soil formulation Illustrations featuring various stages of construction Best practices for green roof maintenance A survey of environmental benefits, including evapo-transpiration, storm-water management, habitat restoration, and improvement of air quality Tips on the LEED design and certification process Considerations for assessing return on investment Color photographs of successfully installed green roofs Useful checklists, tables, and charts
  • Handbook of Building Crafts in Conservation, Jack Bower, Ed., Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, NY 1981 ISBN 0-442-2135-3 Library of Congress Catalog Card Nr. 81-50643.
  • Historic Preservation Technology: A Primer, Robert A. Young, Wiley (March 21, 2008) ISBN-10: 0471788368 ISBN-13: 978-0471788362
  • Historic Slate Roofs : With How-to Info and Specifications, Tina Skinner (Ed), Schiffer Publishing, 2008, ISBN-10: 0764330012 , ISBN-13: 978-0764330018
  • Low Slope Roofing, Manual of, 4th Ed., C.W. Griffin, Richard Fricklas, McGraw-Hill Professional; 4 edition, 2006, ISBN-10: 007145828X, ISBN-13: 978-0071458283
    • Roof failure causes in depth (and specific methods for avoiding them)
    • Roof design fundamentals and flourishes, based on voluminous industry research and experience
    • New technologies and materials -- using them safely and correctly
    • Comprehensive coverage of all major roofing systems pecifications, inspection, and maintenance tools for roofing work
  • Metal Roofing, an Illustrated Guide, R.A. Knowlton , [metal shingle roofs],
  • Patio Roofs, how to build, Sunset Books
  • Problems in Roofing Design, B. Harrison McCampbell, Butterworth Heineman, 1991 ISBN 0-7506-9162-X (available used)
  • Roofing The Right Way, Steven Bolt, McGraw-Hill Professional; 3rd Ed (1996), ISBN-10: 0070066507, ISBN-13: 978-0070066502
  • Slate Roofs, National Slate Association, 1926, reprinted 1977 by Vermont Structural Slate Co., Inc., Fair Haven, VT 05743, 802-265-4933/34. (We recommend this book if you can find it. It has gone in and out of print on occasion.)
  • Roof Tiling & Slating, a Practical Guide, Kevin Taylor, Crowood Press (2008), ISBN 978-1847970237,
    If you have never fixed a roof tile or slate before but have wondered how to go about repairing or replacing them, then this is the book for you. Many of the technical books about roof tiling and slating are rather vague and conveniently ignore some of the trickier problems and how they can be resolved. In Roof Tiling and Slating, the author rejects this cautious approach. Kevin Taylor uses both his extensive knowledge of the trade and his ability to explain the subject in easily understandable terms, to demonstrate how to carry out the work safely to a high standard, using tried and tested methods. 
    This clay roof tile guide considers the various types of tiles, slates, and roofing materials on the market as well as their uses, how to estimate the required quantities, and where to buy them. It also discusses how to check and assess a roof and how to identify and rectify problems; describes how to efficiently "set out" roofs from small, simple jobs to larger and more complicated projects, thus making the work quicker, simpler, and neater; examines the correct and the incorrect ways of installing background materials such as underlay, battens, and valley liners; explains how to install interlocking tiles, plain tiles, and artificial and natural slates; covers both modern and traditional methods and skills, including cutting materials by hand without the assistance of power tools; and provides invaluable guidance on repairs and maintenance issues, and highlights common mistakes and how they can be avoided. The author, Kevin Taylor, works for the National Federation of Roofing Contractors as a technical manager presenting technical advice and providing education and training for young roofers.
  • The Slate Roof Bible, Joseph Jenkins, www.jenkinsslate.com, 143 Forest Lane, PO Box 607, Grove City, PA 16127 - 866-641-7141 (We recommend this book).
  • Slate Roofing in Canada (Studi4es in archaeology, architecture, and history),
  • Smart Guide: Roofing: Step-by-Step Projects, Creative Homeowner (Ed), 2004, ISBN-10: 1580111491, ISBN-13: 978-1580111492
  • Solar heating, radiative cooling and thermal movement: Their effects on built-up roofing (United States. National Bureau of Standards. Technical note), William C Cullen, Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Govt. Print. Off (1963), ASIN: B0007FTV2Q
  • Tile Roofs of Alfred: A Clay Tradition in Alfred NY
  • "Weather-Resistive Barriers [copy on file as /interiors/Weather_Resistant_Barriers_DOE.pdf ] - ", how to select and install housewrap and other types of weather resistive barriers, U.S. DOE
  • Wood Shingle Roofs, Care and Maintenance of wood shingle and shake roofs (EC), Stanley S. Niemiec (out of print)
  • ...
Home About Us Accuracy Contact Us Content Use Policy Privacy Website Description © 2012 Copyright InspectAPedia.com