A roof is an important part of a home, and keeping it clean is vital for maintaining its appearance. Professional roof cleaning can prevent damage and deterioration, increase curb appeal, and extend the life of your roof.
A thorough roof cleaning can also remove damaging moss and algae growth, which can lead to shingle deterioration and wood rot. Moreover, it can restore the color of your roof. Read on for some ideas.
Power Washing
Power washing uses a high-pressure water jet to blast away dirt and grime from exterior surfaces. It is an efficient and quick way to clean a surface, but it can be dangerous if done improperly.
It also comes with a variety of nozzles that vary in spray patterns. Each one can help you remove more or less dirt from a specific surface.
A power washer can be used on a wide range of exterior surfaces, including siding, concrete, patios, decks, cars, and driveways. However, it’s best to use it on hard surfaces like concrete, since the hot water can loosen up the dirt and make the job go faster.
The only drawback to power washing is that it can be dangerous if not done properly. The water pressure can chip shingles, and it could even enter through small cracks in the roof, which can cause water damage to your home.
Soft Washing
Soft washing is a safer cleaning solution that utilizes a lower pressure of water than power washing. It is the best option for delicate surfaces like windows, roof shingles, screens, and siding because it will not damage them in the process.
The process involves spraying a cleaning chemical solution on all surfaces that need to be cleaned and then lightly spraying the surface with water. These chemicals kill off organic growth, such as mold, mildew, and algae.
In addition, this cleaning method is also more effective than pressure washing. This is because it does not use high pressure to clean hard surfaces like concrete, but a low-pressure stream of water.
Moss Removal
Moss can be difficult to remove, and it often grows in areas that are not easy to access. It can be removed by hosing the roof with plain water, then scrubbing it with a long-handled soft-bristle brush.
You can also use a chemical spray to kill the moss and prevent it from growing back. Some moss killers are available at home improvement stores. These products are usually sprayed on and then left to sit for a few hours before rinsing away with water or being blown down by the wind.
When you are using chemicals, be sure to cover the area below your roof with plastic sheeting to prevent any runoff from affecting plants or shrubs on your property. Some moss killers contain chlorine bleach, which can kill or damage your plants if not used correctly.
When removing moss on your roof, be sure to wear safety goggles and rubber gloves, as well as non-slip shoes. Double-check that your ladder is secure, and enlist the help of a designated helper to climb onto the roof safely.
Algae Removal
Algae can discolor a tile roof and make it vulnerable to moisture buildup. It can also absorb heat unevenly and eat away at the tiles themselves.
It’s important to act fast once algae is discovered because it could spread if left untreated. This could lead to further moisture damage, wood rot, and other issues, which will eventually shorten the life of your roof.
The quickest and easiest way to clean your roof is with a 50:50 solution of household bleach and water. Spray it on the algae and give it a few minutes to kill any bacteria, then rinse thoroughly with low-pressure water.
It’s not recommended to use a power washer for this task because it can cause serious damage to shingles and other roofing materials. Plus, chlorine bleach is corrosive and can damage metal roof flashings, gutters, and downspouts. Check it out here!
