Whiskey Fungus & Your Home’s Exterior Aesthetic
If you live in or around Bourbon Country, you’re probably used to seeing and wondering what the black soot-looking substance is on nearly every surface around the distilleries. This is what’s called Whiskey Fungus or Angel’s Share Fungus. Officially named Baudoinia Compniacensis, this fungus was discovered by Antoin Baudin in 1872 near distilleries in Cognac, France. While this soot-looking substance looks ominous, studies show that it poses little to no health risk to humans or animals. However, if left on surfaces, it looks like remnants of a fire and can begin to break down that surface. This can pose a huge problem for the exterior of your home, your roof included.
So, where does this Whiskey Fungus come from? Basically, it’s a byproduct of bourbon production or maturation. After the bourbon is produced, it is put into a charred oak barrel to age to perfection. Many of these barrels are aging in Kentucky, as we produce 95% of the world's bourbon; however, some of these barrels are shipped to age elsewhere. While the bourbon is aging, some ethanol evaporates into the air - this is called the “Angel’s Share.” The ethanol that escapes during the production or maturation of alcohol feeds the Whiskey Fungus, or as some call it “Angel’s Share Fungus.” The ethanol combined with any moisture is said to provide nutrients and “supercharge” the B. Compniacensis, giving it the ability to withstand temperature extremes. This fungus can be found around alcohol factories from northern Canada to the Caribbean.
Although this Whiskey Fungus looks ominous, there is hope. Whiskey fungus is more widespread in the warmer months because of the humidity so the cooler months bring some reprieve. Pressure washing and hand washing with bleach are both common ways to remove this velvet-like fungus from your home's exterior. Health officials recommend wearing an N95 respirator when removing this fungus. Unfortunately, there aren’t any preventive measures to avoid the accumulation of whiskey fungus.
If left alone, whiskey fungus can begin to break down the surfaces to which it attaches. This can wreak havoc on the exterior of your home including your roof. To remedy the potential for damage, our professionals at Bourbon Country: Roofing, Home Exteriors and Custom Homes suggest having your home professionally power washed or doing plenty of research and learning how to clean the fungus yourself. Have a roofing specialist come out and assess for any damage to your roof, gutters, gutter guards, and downspouts.
Since this fungus is black and velvet-like, it may be difficult to see it on your roof or exterior elements depending on their color. Bourbon Country: Roofing, Home Exteriors, and Custom Homes recommends having a professional assess your roof for whiskey fungus and the best way to clean it. This will help avoid any further damage from the fungus itself or the cleaning process.
If Whiskey Fungus has damaged your roof or the exterior of your home beyond repair, call Bourbon Country: Roofing, Home Exteriors and Custom Homes today to speak to our professionals about scheduling a FREE roof assessment.
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