Even though your roof is mostly hidden, it can look worn out if it has a dirty and dingy appearance. A buildup of debris, moss, or algae can compromise the integrity of your roofing. Roof cleaning is important if you want your roof to last as long as possible and keep it looking good.

It is dangerous to climb on pitched roofs. This is especially true for multi-story houses. Add to this algae or moss-covered shingles, water or chemicals and things can get slippery pretty quickly. Hire help to avoid a potentially dangerous roof fall. What you need to know about cleaning your roof

Allow Chemical Solutions Plenty of Time to Do Their Job

A chemical wash is the most effective way to remove moss, algae or for a simple clean on roof materials. It takes a while for most of these chemicals to work. Some labels suggest waiting up to four or five months before seeing full results. It can be easy for homeowners to assume that the chemical wash didn’t work. This would be a big mistake. Over time, the new growth will die off and rainwater or even wind gusts will wash away all of your roof debris.

Use a Low-Pressure Washer

Manufacturers and roofing experts both agree that pressure washing your roof (except for the metal sheets, which are highly durable) is not a good idea. It won’t work in cases of mold and algae growth. It may also damage or remove shingles. Use a garden hose and a chemical sprayer to spray a bleach solution on the roof. Let the product sit for 15 to 20 minutes, and then use the garden hose to rinse off the bleach solution.

Don’t Forget About Your Surrounding Landscape

If you use a harsh chemical or bleach solution to clean your roof, it will run off and kill or damage the plants or grass that are in its path. You may not be in a position to stop all damage but you can cover the plants in plastic and wet them with plain water before cleaning the roof. After you have finished, remove the plastic from the plants and rinse them again with plain tap water.

Do Not Choose a Sunny Day to Clean the Roof

The sun can be harsh. Even in other climates a sunny day can cause your chemical solution on your roof to evaporate before it has a chance to do its job. You should work during an overcast or cloudy day to avoid direct sunlight hitting your roof.

When Repairing Your Roof, Safety Is Paramount

Falls from a rooftop can result in serious injury, and even death. Both are not worth it to clean your roof. You can do the job with patience and good shoes if you’re comfortable at heights and have another pair of eyes watching the roof. If any of these things give you pause, Hire a Professional who has the right equipment and is trained to do the task safely.

Take Proactive Steps to Keep Your Roof Clean

You can’t always control the spores that are in the air or the number of days it is sunny, but you can take a few steps to make a difference. Trees that hang over the roof can drop debris onto the roof. They also block the sunlight. The sun is essential for inhibiting moss growth and algae growth.

Do Take Your Roofing Material Into Consideration

In most of the United States asphalt roofing is the most popular material. Many products are available to clean asphalt roofs. However, many people swear by the simple solution of chlorine bleach in water. This type of roof is best cleaned with a low-pressure chemical solution.

Metal roof panels are becoming more popular in residential areas as we strive to be a more sustainable society. Steel roofs can be much more durable and resistant to high pressure than asphalt shingles. Depending on what you want to clean, high pressure might not be the best option.

Pressure, for example, will not remove algae or moss. For this, you will need chemicals. Chemicals will not, however, remove dirt or debris. For this, you will need to apply pressure. You may have to choose between the two cleaning methods depending on what you need.

The Bottom Line on Cleaning a Roof

Most homeowners don’t know how to clean their roof, a necessary but occasional exterior maintenance task. There are many things to consider, including the safety of your roof and how you can choose the best method. A garden hose, bleach and a low pressure chemical wash are usually enough to achieve the desired results. Remember that results may not appear immediately. Over the next few weeks, you should see a noticeable improvement in the roof’s appearance. Above all, ensure that you are able to clean the roof safely. If not, hire someone.

This post was written by a professional at A Buff & Beyond Pressure Washing. With A Buff & Beyond Pressure Washing in Port Saint Lucie, FL, you can get your home looking as good as new. A Buff & Beyond Pressure Washing provides the highest-rated and best quality pressure washing services in the area and can help your beautiful home beat the chaotic Florida elements. Services offered by A Buff and Beyond include house washing, paver sealing, and roof cleaning. A Buff & Beyond Pressure Washing wants to wash and beautify your home as much as you do, and when you call A Buff & Beyond, there is no robot or machine. Instead, customers get a fast and honest quote, years of expertise, a safety-conscious team, and are always on time. So when you need roof cleaning, paver seal, or pressure washing service to restore your home, contact A Buff and Beyond today to get started. Click here to get started today!