Clean shingles make a home look better and can increase its value. Moss and algae can also damage a roof and shorten its lifespan. These contaminants also hold extra moisture against the roof paper, which can cause leaks. See our home page.
There are several different types of cleaners for removing algae and dirt from a roof. Bleach-based cleaners are harsh, but they can be effective in removing stubborn stains.
High-pressure washing
Pressure washing is the use of high-pressure water to remove moss, mildew, dirt, and grime from surfaces. It is also used to clean cars, outdoor grills, and buildings. The water is pumped and pressurized using electric motors or gas engines. It is directed through a hose to a spray nozzle.
Never aim the washer upwards, as this can cause shingles to tear off. Instead, cover a few shingles at a time and move the wand slightly closer to the surface.
A dirty roof can damage your shingles and strip the granules off of them, leading to brittleness and leaks. Pressure washing can remove debris and restore your roof to its original condition. It can also improve your energy efficiency by reducing the amount of heat that your home absorbs.
Low-pressure washing
Low-pressure washing is a safe technique for cleaning your home’s exterior. It uses a moderate amount of water and biodegradable cleaners to remove dirt buildup and stubborn stains. It’s also safer for your plants and pets.
High-pressure power washing can damage your roof and shorten its lifespan. It can etch the asphalt on shingle roofs, making them look faded and more porous. It can also void your roof’s warranty and cause granule loss.
Foam cannons are an excellent choice for low-pressure washing because they can be used safely from the ground. They can be used on surfaces that are too dangerous to wash with a high-pressure washer, such as roof shingles.
Eco-friendly cleaning
Unlike traditional cleaning products that contain toxins and can cause serious damage to plants, animals, and even the environment, eco-friendly cleaners do not. These products also contain no petroleum byproducts. They are formulated to be safe for the environment, and their packaging will typically indicate their environmental responsibility.
Eco-friendly cleaning uses non-toxic chemicals and detergents to kill fungus and algae, and it is safer for your roof and plants. It’s also more effective than traditional cleaning methods. It will keep your roof looking new and clean, and it can even extend the life of your shingles. It will also prevent invasive plant growth that can damage your roof.
Bleach-based cleaning
Bleach is a chemical compound that can be used to disinfect and whiten objects. It is also a powerful stain remover, but it is important to use caution when working with bleach. It can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. It can also corrode metals.
The best way to use bleach is to apply it to a clean surface, scrub it, and allow it to sit for a minute or so. This allows the bleach to kill mildew and mold spores. Then rinse the area with water.
When using bleach, be sure to wear gloves and a face mask. It is also important to work in a well-ventilated area.
Leaf blower cleaning
When you have a lot of dry leaves that need to be removed from your roof, a leaf blower is an easy way to get the job done. It is best to use it while standing on a ladder so that you can control where the air is directed. If you do this, it will be much easier to blow the leaves away from the gutters and into the yard.
You can also skip the ladder altogether by using a hose-attached gutter cleaning wand, which makes the whole process faster and safer. Just remember to wear eye protection as well. This is especially important if the blower is loud.
Chemical washing
Chemical washing is a quick and effective way to remove stains from a roof. However, not all types of shingles or tiles can handle the harsh chemicals used in this process. Therefore, it is important to hire a qualified home improvement expert for the job.
Chemical cleaners use various processes, such as hydrolysis, saponification, solubilization, dispersal, and chelation to break down foulants. This type of cleaning is best for membrane systems and provides superior detergency and emulsification.
Smart soft wash contractors use professional-grade (12%) sodium hypochlorite (bleach) to kill Gloeocapsa magma algae, mold, mildew, lichen, and moss. They also add surfactants to improve the cleaning power and odor-masking scents to disguise the smell of bleach. Discover more interesting articles.
