Keeping a home’s roof clean can prevent costly repairs, such as those involving water leaks. Growths such as moss, algae and mildew can damage the roof.

When done by a professional, Roof Cleaning can also elongate its lifespan. This is because it removes the bacteria / fungus and prevents further buildup from occurring.

Debris removal during roof cleaning is a crucial step for maintaining a healthy roof. Whether it’s leaves, pine needles, or other organic material, this debris can collect on the surface of the roof and cause damage to its structure if left unattended. Additionally, this material can clog gutters and cause water to back up on the roof instead of draining off of it, leading to structural damage and other problems.

If you’re comfortable with being on the roof, it’s possible to remove light debris yourself. However, be sure to follow proper safety precautions and have someone else to help you hold the ladder and keep you stable. It’s also recommended that you perform this task during daylight hours to avoid the risk of falling off the roof.

Before beginning the process of debris removal, you should prepare by clearing the area around your home. This way, you can create a safe workspace and avoid damaging yard furniture or other features of your property. Then, you’ll want to ensure that you have all the necessary tools for the job, such as a ladder, safety gear, and a soft-bristle broom. You should also wear gloves and have a trash bag to put the debris into. Finally, you should clear the area underneath your roof so that you can easily access any parts of the roof or structures beneath it.

For small debris, a leaf blower is often the best option. This tool can quickly and easily remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from your roof, even in hard-to-reach areas. Just be careful not to direct the blower at any shingles, as it can damage them. Additionally, you should be careful not to blow debris into chimneys, skylights, or other vulnerable parts of your roof.

For larger debris, a roofing rake or other handheld brush with stiff bristles may be needed. A hose or bucket of water can also be used to rinse the debris off of your roof. It’s important to start at the top and work your way down to prevent debris from falling on areas that have already been cleaned.

Preparation

When you see black streaks or a layer of green fungus or moss on your roof, it is time to call in the professionals. A clean roof prevents moss and algae from growing, protects the shingles from damage, and improves the resale value of your home. Additionally, it protects you and your family from bacteria that attaches to shingles, which can cause allergies and other health issues.

Roof cleaning is a complex task that should be left to professional roofers with the right equipment and experience. They are also familiar with the unique conditions of each property. They will use a soft washing process that is safe for the roof surface and does not require the use of high-pressure water. This allows the cleaning solution to penetrate deep into the cracks and crevices of the tiles, where most organic growth occurs.

During the cleaning process, the professional will apply the cleaning solution to the entire surface of the roof. It is then left to dwell for a period of 10 to 20 minutes. This allows the solution to penetrate the organic growth and break it down. After the dwell time, the roof is rinsed using fresh, low-pressure water. The rinsing process removes the dead organic material, along with any remaining cleaning solution.

The roof surface must be free of debris, contaminants, tools, and moisture before the coating system can adhere to it. Otherwise, the coating will detach from the roof and fail. This can lead to additional expenses for the homeowner, and it is important that this step is not skipped or completed incorrectly.

The cost of a roof cleaning depends on the size and complexity of the project, as well as the condition of the roof. For example, a roof with a steep pitch will take longer to clean than a flat roof. Also, if the roof is covered with a lot of debris, it will take more time to remove. Lastly, the cost of a roof cleaning will increase if the project involves removing and replacing damaged or worn shingles.

Safety Measures

It’s important to have the right tools and materials for roof cleaning. This includes a ladder that’s stable, sturdy, and tall enough to reach your roof without putting yourself at risk of falling off or causing damage to the house. You’ll also need non-slip shoes, gloves, safety goggles, and a harness to protect yourself from injuries. A soft-bristle brush is ideal for scrubbing the surface of the roof without damaging shingles or other roofing materials.

Before applying any cleaning solution, read the instructions carefully to ensure that it’s mixed correctly. Incorrect mixing can lead to damage or ineffective results. It’s also important to take the time to thoroughly inspect the roof for any areas that require special attention, such as algae discoloration or moss growth. A small amount of bleach can be added to the cleaner if necessary to get rid of stubborn stains.

Be sure to use a solution that is safe for the type of roof you have. Chlorine bleach, which is usually used in laundry or to whiten toilets, can do a great job of killing off moss and algae spores but can also damage asphalt shingles. The ARMA recommends using a 1:1 ratio of bleach to water for a thorough cleaning without damaging the roof’s structure.

If your roof is surrounded by shrubbery, it’s important to protect them by soaking them with plain water before and after the cleaning process to avoid irreparable chemical damage. It’s also a good idea to divert rainwater away from the home if possible to minimize the impact of cleaning solutions on plants and soil.

Regular roof maintenance is vital for preventing moss, algae, and debris from damaging the roof’s structure, extending its lifespan, and improving the energy efficiency of the house. If you’re comfortable working at heights and have a friend available to help ensure your safety, DIY roof cleaning can be a cost-effective way to improve the curb appeal of your home. If not, it’s best to call a professional to do the job safely and effectively.

Cleaning

In the last ten years, a cottage industry has developed specifically to address the problem of algae, moss, and lichen on roofs. The growth of these organic contaminants degrades shingles and causes damage to the home. They also impede the flow of water and light through the roofing materials, leading to leaks and discoloration. Regular cleaning is necessary to protect the investment in a home’s structure and enhance its curb appeal.

There are several ways to clean a roof, but most professionals use non-pressure washing methods that are gentle enough for delicate roofing materials. A biocide (similar to a weed killer) is applied to the roof, and the organic growth is killed and then rinsed off. This method is inexpensive, effective, and guaranteed to kill everything growing on a roof.

Another option is to spray the roof surface with a solution made from hot water, bleach, and trisodium phosphate (TSP). This method is recommended by multiple roof manufacturers in their warranty manuals. However, this type of cleaning is not for the inexperienced homeowner as it requires special safety equipment such as eye protection and gloves. If a homeowner is going to try this type of cleaning, it’s essential that they research the specific roof material and follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely.

If a homeowner is concerned about the chemicals damaging surrounding landscaping, they can prevent this by soaking any plants with plain water before using the TSP solution on their roof. This will protect the soil and the plants from irreparable chemical damage.

It is important to note that a professional roof cleaning company will have the appropriate safety equipment to do the job safely and correctly. This includes a harness, ladders, and safety shoes or slip resistant boots. It is also critical to avoid performing a roof cleaning on rainy or windy days.

If you are considering hiring a professional to do your roof cleaning, contact us. We will provide a free estimate and work with you to schedule the most convenient time for your home. We are committed to ensuring your complete satisfaction with our services and guarantee the quality of our work.