Having your roof cleaned regularly might seem like an unnecessary task, but the total opposite is true. One advantage of regular roof washing is that it will remove mud and other debris before it ends up in your gutters. Another advantage to keeping your roof clean is that a roof free of debris will enable you to more easily identify areas in need of repair. You might be wondering what is the safest way to have your roof cleaned? Here is an overview:
Hire a professional
Not every homeowner has the ability or desire to climb on a roof and clean it. If you would prefer not to perform this task, hiring a professional is your best bet. Not only will allowing a professional to clean your roof save you from struggling to complete it, but you can rest assured that the job will be performed properly and professionally.
Protect your landscaping
If you have decided to forego the professional, you’ll want to ensure that you’re mindful of your landscaping below while cleaning your roof. The caustic chemicals that you will likely use can drip down onto your landscaping, damaging it in the process. You can avoid this issue by covering delicate plants and shrubs prior to cleaning the roof, and rinsing your landscaping immediately upon completion of the roof cleaning.
Steer clear of pressure washers
Cleaning your roof in the wrong manner can cause more harm than good. One thing that you definitely want to refrain from doing is using a pressure washer. While the use of a pressure washer might appear as if it would improve the ease of cleaning your roof, it won’t. In fact, using a pressure washer could result in serious damage to your roof, including the loosening of shingles.
Practice prevention
By arming yourself with the knowledge of how algae and moss form on your roof, you will increase the time in-between cleanings. The most common types of algae that grows on roofs is Blue Green or Gloeocapsa Magma. Algae grows on parts of the roof where moisture pools, and algae shields itself from the sun by producing a dark pigmented exterior. Since algae starts out as dark spots before progressing to black streaks, by cleaning your roof regularly, you can minimize the occurrence of streaks.
Moss is a plant that derives water through its leaves instead of its roots. Moss flourishes in moist areas where sunlight is blocked by either trees or roof planes. Like algae, the growth of moss can be minimized by having your roof cleaned regularly. You can also reduce the growth of algae and moss by keeping trees trimmed. Sunlight is then able to reduce moisture, therefore keeping the growth or algae and moss to a minimum.
Use the right solution, at the right time
There are many different solutions available to help you rid your roof of unsightly black streaks and other issues. One of the most accessible and effective is a solution containing bleach. While this solution is usually effective, it can also damage the integrity of your roof.
Choosing the right time is also important for success. Applying the solution when it’s sunny outside isn’t a good idea. The solution will likely dry too quickly, before it’s had time to work. Choosing an overcast day is best, as rain will wash away the solution before it’s done it’s job.
There are many advantages to keeping your roof clean. From keeping damaging algae and moss at bay, to restoring the color of the tiles, cleaning your roof regularly is important. Having your roof safely cleaned is key, and following these tips can help you to achieve your goal, quickly and easily.
