Having your roof cleaned may not be at the top of your to-do list, but it’s definitely a home project you should consider. When you think about all the elements that hit your roof every day of the year, it’s no wonder that, in addition to being generally dirty, they are also susceptible to moss and algae growth.
This task won’t be DIY home maintenance for most people; it’s best to hire a reputable contractor. An experienced professional will know how to navigate a roof while gently cleaning without causing damage safely.
Keep reading to find out more about the benefits of regular professional roof cleaning.
What Is Roof Cleaning?
Roof cleaning is the process of having debris, moss, algae, and mildew removed from your roof. Regular cleaning can improve curb appeal and stop damage and help lengthen the life of a roof. There are several methods for getting stains off a roof, but it’s important to choose the right one for your home.
Recommended Roof Cleaning Methods
A quick internet search will likely bring up several local companies that offer roof cleaning services. But before requesting service, you’ll need to determine the best approach for the type of roof your home has.
Roof Soft Washing
For the majority of roof types, soft washing is the recommended cleaning method. A soft wash is when a biodegradable cleaning solution is sprayed on the roof, working its way into all the crevices and undersides of shingles. The solution adheres and soaks into the roofing material, helping to dissolve built-up residue. It is then gently rinsed away with low water pressure, such as a garden hose, causing minimal runoff onto the ground below. Soft cleaning typically takes two to five hours to complete; you should soft wash your roof every one to two years.
Roof Pressure Washing
As a general rule, it is best to avoid pressure washers or otherwise high-pressure power washing most types of roofs. With these methods, the water comes out too forcefully and can cause damage to both the surface and the underlying materials.
The exceptions are roofs made with ceramic or concrete tiles, which may be sturdy enough to handle the force of pressure washing. Before moving forward with service, we recommend that you first check with the manufacturer to see what type of cleaning they suggest.
Benefits of roof cleaning include:
Prevent Buildup
Algae and moss often grow underneath shingles, remaining largely out of sight while slowly loosening tiles and roofing paper. Thin and damaged shingles look bumpy, and can eventually start to fall off. Regular roof cleaning helps keep shingles and tiles in good repair, and less likely to wear down quickly.
Curb Appeal
A thorough roof washing can help restore color and brightness, giving your home an instant facelift. Having a clean roof also makes it easier to visually inspect it and spot any possible issues such as loose shingles or flashing.
Clear Away Debris
Rain, snow, high winds, and air pollution constantly bombard roofs. Regular roof washing helps clear away scattered debris, such as leaves and twigs, as well as any dirt and grime that has accumulated over time.
How to Maintain Your Roof Cleaning
Just like other home cleaning tasks, it’s important to stay on top of routine roof maintenance. Having a professional roof cleaning completed every one to two years can help extend the life of your roof by 10 to 20 years. A pro can clean your roof in conjunction with other exterior projects, such as gutter cleaning or whole-house power washing.