The company CertainTeed has issued a warning about one of its products: the 
CertainTeed Algae-Resistant Shingles. And it is up to the homeowner to know what is and is not covered if this product has caused damage to their home.
According to the company’s Limited Warranty, it is a Galvanic Reaction warning that states the “due to the copper granules in [the Certain Teed Algae-Resistant Shingles], aluminum gutters and downspouts will corrode as a result of the presence of an electrolyte and large potential difference in the metals.” This means that the copper in the shingles will react with the aluminum when water is present.
CertainTeed is aware that this reaction can occur and has indemnified itself of all responsibility due to any resulting damage to a homeowner’s gutter system in its ten-year StreakFighter® algae-resistance Limited Warranty.
What Types of Gutters Won’t Incur Damage?
CertainTeed recommends that homeowners install vinyl or copper gutters if they choose to use these Algae-Resistant Shingles to prevent damage.
Algae-Resistant Shingles Offer Benefits
This should not keep homeowners from using this particular type of shingle. There are benefits to installing the Algae-Resistant Shingles on their homes, with the biggest being its resistance to the airborne blue-green algae (gloeocapsa magma) that can create ugly streaking on shingles for up to 10 or 15 years. This is sometimes called a fungus, mold or moss, but it is none of those. It is an unsightly black or brown stain or splotch that can ruin a roof’s appearance.
If one or more of its shingles does appear to have the blue-green algae, CertainTeed will gladly pay for the reasonable cost to replace or clean any affected shingles. The shingles do not warranty against normal mold or mildew growth, however.
Related: The CertainTeed Algae-Resistant Shingle Brochure
Först Consulting Group Supports Homeowner Disputes for Construction Errors
Först Consulting Group serves as a forensic investigator and expert witness in cases homeowners might have in disputes with companies such as CertainTeed.
When a homeowner believes that a company or one of its representatives has either inadvertently or knowingly caused damage to their property, it is most often up to the homeowner to provide proof of damage. That’s when an expert is needed.
Först Consulting Group can provide a complete and thorough investigation of the claim, along with detailed documentation and photographic evidence to help homeowners support and win their disputes, whether they are between the company or its representative directly or in a court of law. This is the forensic evidence required as proof.
Our detailed knowledge of the construction industry, products and installation practices can help homeowners determine whether any damage is eligible for compensation or remediation from the company in question. In some cases, as with CertainTeed, their limitations and indemnification is outlined in their Limited Warranty, and unless the homeowner is familiar with these items, the homeowner can be caught unawares, and is therefore unable to pursue a claim.
Do Your Homework When Purchasing Algae-Resistant Shingles
We recommend that prior to purchasing any construction product or service, that the homeowner ask about all warranty and guarantee issues, and determine whether that particular product will best suit their need. If you, the homeowner, need assistance in this area, Först Consulting Group will gladly offer consultation services.
If you would like to speak with us about a possible construction claim, please feel free to contact Först Consulting Group at 703-268-8699 or contact us online.
