Keeping your roof clean helps to prevent the growth of moss and algae which can eat away at the shingles. It also helps to protect the structure of your home and increase its resale value.
Moss and algae build up impedes your roof’s ability to reflect sunlight. This can cause your energy bills to rise. Contact Sarasota Roof Cleaning now!
Debris Removal
Debris from the environment can cause serious damage to a roof. Leaves, pine needles, twigs and branches will quickly build up on your roof if they aren’t removed regularly. They can conceal areas of the roof which are in need of repair, impede rain flow and become a home to pests.
Debris is typically removed from a roof during a cleaning by blowing it off. This method is only viable for light debris such as leaves, needles and twigs. It’s not safe to use on a steep roof or in windy conditions, and it is likely that some debris will blow into gutters during the process. This is why it’s important to check the gutter system during a debris cleaning and remove any remaining debris.
Sweeping the roof is another way to clear debris. It’s more labor intensive but is better suited for small amounts of debris like leaves and pine needles. It’s also more safe than using a blower, especially on a steep or pitched roof. Sweeping should be done during daylight hours and in calm weather. Ideally, the area being swept should be covered with plastic sheets to protect valuable house objects from dirt and dust.
A thorough roof cleaning will also examine the gutter and drain systems to ensure they are free from clogs and are functioning properly. During this process, a professional will also look for any bare spots in the roof’s surface which could indicate that water is entering the home and causing damage.
It’s important to remember that the roof is an integral part of the house and should be treated with care. A roof is a huge investment and will protect the family from harmful weather, so it’s worth the effort to keep it in good condition. Leaving it to accumulate debris can lead to expensive damage and a host of problems, including water leaks and algae growth. Regular roof cleaning can help prevent these problems and prolong the life of a roofing system. Contact a professional to learn more about roof cleaning and schedule a time for your home’s roof to be cleaned.
Algae Removal
Algae spores spread quickly, so it’s important to remove them regularly before they consume shingles. A specialized cleaning solution that’s approved by your roof shingle manufacturer is the best option.
It’s common for algae to cause dark streaks or stains that make your roof look old and run down. These stains are often mistaken for mold or mildew but actually come from algae, a type of plant that lacks roots and stems but does contain chlorophyll, the green pigment that gives plants their color. Algae spores travel through the air and can be spread by birds, animals, or even humans. They can also cling to raindrops and be carried by wind, water, or other sources.
While it’s possible to clean algae stains with bleach, the results are short-lived and the problem will most likely return. According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), bleach and high-pressure washing will only strip the surface of your roof and can leave you with an uneven appearance.
Using a 50:50 mixture of laundry strength liquid chlorine bleach and water can kill the spores and remove most of the staining. It’s best to spray this mixture and let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing. As with moss removal, it’s important to use this method sparingly as the harsh chemicals may damage your gutter systems and roof flashing.
Another popular algae removal method is to scrub the roof with a soft brush. This can be quite labor intensive and time consuming, but it does work. Just be sure to wear rubber gloves and non slip shoes as you’ll be climbing on a slippery wet roof.
Once your shingles are clean, you can try to prevent future problems by removing any standing water and trimming tree branches. This will help to keep moisture at bay and protect your shingles from premature aging and rotting.
Using a specialized roof cleaning solution is the best way to ensure that your home looks great and is protected from the elements for years to come. Professionals can provide you with the right mix of chemicals to effectively remove moss and algae from your roof while keeping it looking its best.
Moss Removal
Moss on roofs can lead to shingle deterioration and is difficult to remove without damaging the shingles. There are many different methods for removing moss from a roof, including physically brushing the moss off with a push broom and/or chemically scrubbing the moss with a scrub brush or using a moss killer solution. Some roof cleaning professionals use a combination of both approaches. Regardless of the approach, the dead moss needs to be rinsed off or removed from the roof to prevent water and moisture accumulation that can lead to other types of damage.
The first step in a moss removal process is to physically scrub the moss with a long-handled brush or putty knife or 5-in-1 painter’s tool. Start in a corner of the roof and work your way across the surface, moving downward to protect the shingles. Work on a small section at a time so you can control your brush and scrubbing motions more effectively. Be sure to wear rubber gloves and goggles to protect yourself from spores and chemical solutions.
If the moss is still visibly green, you’ll need to apply a moss killer solution. This can be a store-bought cleaner or a homemade mixture. You’ll want to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how long to leave the cleaner or moss killer on the moss.
A moss killer should be left on the roof for at least 20 to 30 minutes. After that, the moss should be rinsed off with a garden hose or a power washer with a low pressure setting to avoid shingle damage.
After rinsing off the moss, you’ll need to let the roof dry before proceeding with any further roof cleaning. If you’ve used a chemical moss killer, it will take at least two weeks for the moss to turn brown and then begin to fall off on its own. If you’re unsure of how to proceed, consult with a roofing professional.
Dirt Removal
When dirt accumulates on your roof, it holds extra moisture against shingles and roof paper. This leads to shingle and paper deterioration, which in turn can cause water leaks in your home. Regular cleaning can help prevent dirt build-up from happening and keep your home safe from water damage.
A professional roof cleaner can use different techniques to clean your home’s rooftop. They can either pressure wash the entire surface or they can use a soft washing process on more delicate roofing materials such as shingles. These methods can help get rid of dirt, algae, moss and other debris from your roof without damaging it. A clean roof can also increase your property value.
The cleaning process can take some time depending on the condition of your roof and the amount of dirt that is present. For instance, a roof with large amounts of moss and other growth can take longer than a normal roof to clean. It’s also important to hire a licensed roof cleaner who is experienced in handling different types of roofing material. They will know how to clean each type of roof and will be able to spot any areas that may require repairs.
A roof is a vital part of a building, as it protects the interior and exterior of your house from weather elements such as rain, wind, snow, and heat. While it’s durable and can withstand the harsh outdoor environment, a roof can still wear down over time and requires regular cleaning to prevent deterioration. A professional roof cleaning can restore the beauty of your home and extend its lifespan. If you are considering selling your home in the future, a clean roof can attract potential buyers and boost its value.
