Algae, mold, mildew and moss can damage or even destroy roofs. Cleaning a roof can help it last longer.
Shingles that hide dirt and grime well may only need to be cleaned once or twice a year. Tile or metal roofs show stains more readily and require more frequent cleaning. Contact Sarasota Roof Cleaning now!
Debris can cause damage to your roof if not removed properly. During a roof cleaning, a professional will make sure that all debris is safely and thoroughly removed from the surface of your roof. This includes leaves, tree limbs, trash, and other organic material that is caught on the roof.
If you are comfortable working on a roof, you may be able to remove light debris yourself. However, you must be careful not to drag any heavy materials across the surface of your roof because this can scratch or damage tiles and shingles. If you do not feel comfortable doing this, it is best to leave it to the professionals.
Some of the most common debris that accumulates on roofs is moss and algae. These stains can be difficult to remove, but professional cleaners are typically well equipped with the right tools to get the job done quickly and efficiently. They can also use a soft brush or low pressure water to clean the roof without damaging the surface.
Other debris that can collect on the roof is shingle shreds, wood scraps, dirt, and other organic matter. All of these items can contribute to clogging and moisture problems. In addition, they can conceal any areas that have been damaged or worn by the elements.
If these materials are left unattended, they can cause damage to the roof and lead to leaks. In the long run, this can cost you hundreds of dollars in repair costs and may even require the replacement of your roof.
One of the best ways to avoid this is to schedule regular roof cleanings with a reputable roofing company. In addition to cleaning the shingles and other components of the roof, they can also inspect and clean your gutters, siding, and driveway/sidewalk for any additional debris that might have collected.
A professional roof cleaning can greatly improve the appearance of a home and extend its lifespan. It can also help prevent costly repairs and replacements down the road. While the roof works hard to protect your home, it can only do so if it is in good condition.
Cleaning Solutions
Most roof cleaning involves spraying a chemical solution onto the surface of your home’s roofing. The solution removes dirt, grime, mildew, mold and moss, as well as black algae staining (or “black streaks”). It also cleans oxidation on metal roofs. There are a variety of solutions on the market aimed at consumers and professional cleaners. Some are eco-friendly, while others use harsh chemicals. Whether you choose an eco-friendly option or a chemical one, it’s important to follow the product’s instructions exactly, and wear protective gear to ensure that you don’t get in direct contact with the cleaner.
Typically, the best way to kill hearty algae and moss is by using a chlorine bleach solution. However, many homeowners are concerned with the potential impact of chlorine bleach on their roofing materials and the surrounding environment. There are several less-aggressive cleaners on the market, including vinegar and hydrogen peroxide. However, these products usually require extensive dwell time or abrasive force to work effectively.
Another good option is a surface cleaner like the Chomp Pro. This cleaner is a biodegradable selective solution that works on a number of different surfaces, including roofing. It is safe for a wide range of roofs, and it can be applied with a garden sprayer or water hose. After applying the cleaner, you can scrub the area with a sponge or soft-bristled brush. Once the area is scrubbing, rinse it with your water hose. Rinsing is essential, as it helps to wash away the cleaning solution and any loosened debris or grime that was on your roof. It’s also a good opportunity to check the gutters and downspouts for any blockages, which can be caused by cleaning solutions and abrasive debris.
Wash Safe is another cleaning solution that’s great for a variety of stains, including those caused by lichen, moss, mildew and mold. It’s a water-based product that isn’t as harsh as bleach, but it is still effective. It can be sprayed on roofs above plants and is easy to rinse. It’s a bit more expensive than other options, but it may be worth the investment for someone who needs a solution that will work on most types of stains on their roof.
Black Streak Removal
In humid areas, unsightly black streaks are a common problem for asphalt shingle roofs. The ugly stains are not caused by dirt, mildew or mold but rather by a blue-green algae known as Gloeocapsa Magma. These spores travel by air, and the lightest breeze can carry them from house to house. Once they land on your roof, they can spread like wildfire and make it difficult to maintain a clean appearance.
Fortunately, these spores can be killed easily by a number of cleaning products. A simple mixture of chlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate (TSP) and water is often enough to kill the fungi and restore your roof’s beauty. A low pressure sprayer is best used to apply the cleaning solution, and the resulting mixture should be left on the surface for 20 minutes before being rinsed off with clean water.
Regular maintenance is the only way to prevent these spores from growing on your roof, especially in warm, moist areas like New England. You can prevent the re-growth of these spores by coating your roof each year with a biocide that inhibits the growth of algae, moss and lichen. The product typically contains copper or zinc and is applied to the entire surface of your roof with a brush, roller or sprayer.
If you’re not able to get rid of black streaks with these methods, then it may be time for a professional roof cleaning. Many roof cleaners use power washers to remove algae stains, but this method is not always safe and can damage your roof. Too much pressure can loosen shingles, and the powerful jets of water can cause shingle granules to be thrown off your roof. These granules help protect your shingles from the elements, and if they’re removed, then your shingles will have a shorter lifespan than they should.
Some roof cleaners also use a high-pressure water stream to wash away the debris from the roof. This is a dangerous process because if the shingles aren’t properly secured, they can fly off during the washing process and end up in your yard or on neighbors’ roofs. This is a good reason to only trust a professional roof cleaning company that uses proper techniques and safe equipment.
Safety
While a clean roof is a wonderful addition to your home’s aesthetic and resale value, it’s also an important element of your home’s structural integrity. Dirt, debris, and moss can damage your roof by trapping moisture that weakens the base of the roof and eventually leads to leakage. Regular roof cleaning helps to prevent the growth of these organic materials and eliminates any existing growth. It also helps to preserve your roof and minimize the risk of voiding your warranty.
There are two main methods for roof cleaning: pressure washing and soft washing. Both have their pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the one that is best suited for your specific roof. For example, metal roofs require different cleaning methods than shingle or tile roofs. Pressure washing can cause damage to the surface of your roof if not done properly, so it’s important to use proper techniques when completing this task.
For shingles or tile roofs, soft cleaning is often the most effective method. This technique uses low-pressure water to remove moss, algae, and dirt without damaging the shingles or tiles. It is also safer for the environment as it doesn’t use any chemicals, making it a great option for homeowners who want to avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
If you’re planning on doing your own roof cleaning, it’s crucial to take safety precautions. Make sure to use a sturdy ladder that is placed on a flat, solid surface and wear rubber soled shoes to ensure you don’t slip while climbing. Also, be sure to tie or block off any down spouts or gutters to prevent the cleaning solution from running into your yard or house.
When cleaning your roof, it’s also a good idea to wear a pair of goggles and rubber gloves. This will help to protect your eyes and skin from the harsh chemicals used in the cleaning process. Lastly, be sure to thoroughly wet surrounding plants and shrubbery to prevent damage caused by the cleaning solutions. It’s also a good idea to clean your gutters and down spouts before and after the roof cleaning to minimize any runoff or over-spray.
