A clean roof not only looks great, it improves the overall curb appeal of your home. This is particularly important if you’re planning to sell it in the future.
A clean roof is also more energy efficient, reducing cooling costs. A professional cleaning also reveals damaged areas that may need structural repair, preventing water leaks and interior damage.
Debris that accumulates on a roof can have a negative impact on the condition of the roof. It can also impact the safety of workers who may be required to access a rooftop in order to assess and perform repairs on the structure.
As a result, roof cleaning is often an essential part of maintaining the condition of the roof and all of its components. Debris removal includes the removal of leaves, pine needles, twigs, branches, and other organic debris that can clog or block gutters and roof vents. It also includes the removal of algae stains, fungus, mildew, and moss that can damage shingles and compromise the structural integrity of a roof.
The roof’s primary function is to divert water from the home, but if it becomes blocked by debris, this can lead to water pooling on the rooftop. This can rot the roof, cause leaks, and damage the interior of the home. Regular cleaning and debris removal can prevent this by keeping the gutters and drainpipes clear and allowing water to flow freely.
A clean roof can also reveal areas of the roofing structure that require repair, such as soft spots or signs of water damage. This can help homeowners to schedule repairs more quickly, reducing the cost and the time that the roof will be exposed to the elements.
While most roofs are built to withstand the weather, debris buildup can cause the materials to deteriorate faster than they should. The weight of leaves, twigs, and other debris can add considerable stress to the structure of a roof. This added weight can also cause sagging, warping, or collapse in extreme cases. Regular roof cleaning can keep the debris accumulation to a minimum and extend the life of the roofing materials.
The most important consideration when removing debris from a roof is safety. Debris can fly off the roof during a storm or windy day and injure people below. It can also strike units, hatches, or lights on the roof and create costly damage that requires the facility to shut down for repairs. It is therefore vital to ensure that the removal process is performed under safe conditions by professionals who are trained and experienced in working at heights.
Algae Removal
Algae growth on roofs is not only unsightly, but it can lead to shingle damage if left unchecked. Fortunately, this problem is relatively easy to prevent and eliminate. Before attempting any algae removal, however, be sure you are prepared for the task ahead of time by taking all necessary safety precautions. Use a safety harness, impact-resistant goggles and sturdy footwear to protect yourself from falling debris or the potential for chemical burns. Also, be sure to properly dispose of any cleaning materials you have used to avoid harming surrounding vegetation or the environment.
First, you will need to remove any debris that is present on the surface of your roof. Depending on the size of your home and the amount of algae and moss present, this could be a substantial undertaking. A broom or scrub brush may be enough to remove the bulk of what is on your roof. Afterwards, it is best to rinse the entire roof with clean water to ensure you have removed any remaining spores or debris.
Once your roof is clean, the most effective method of removing stains from shingles is to use a product specifically designed for this purpose. These products, such as Wet & Forget Outdoor or a mixture of trisodium phosphate and bleach can be bought at most hardware stores and applied using a hose-end sprayer. This solution is safe for the environment and will not void your roofing warranty, though it can take 3-6 months to fully work.
Oxygen bleach is another alternative for eliminating stains. It uses hydrogen peroxide instead of chlorine bleach to oxidize foreign substances and comes in liquid or powder form for a safer, eco-friendly option that does not affect the coloration of your shingles.
There are also several other things you can do to help prevent the recurrence of algae and moss on your roof. Copper strips are particularly effective in preventing the buildup of these organisms because the copper molecules kill them when they come in contact with them. These strips can be inserted between a roof vent or chimney and the shingles. It is also a good idea to trim nearby trees to reduce excessive shade that can encourage algae and moss growth on your roof.
Shingles Cleaning
While modern shingles are equipped with technologies that make them less prone to moss and algae growth, environmental factors and routine wear and tear still take their toll. In addition to reducing your home’s curb appeal, algae and moss growth can damage your roof and allow moisture into your house.
Regular cleanings of your shingle roof can extend its lifespan and keep it looking great. However, hiring a professional to clean your roof can cost hundreds of dollars or more. If you’re comfortable working on a ladder and have access to the proper tools and supplies, you can save money by cleaning your own roof.
Before you begin your shingle roof cleaning project, sweep away any loose debris with a push broom or leaf blower. This will help the cleaning solution reach the spots that need it most. Also, if there are plants or other landscaping items near the roof, cover them with plastic drop cloths to protect them from being sprayed with cleaning solution or water.
Choose a noncorrosive cleaner designed specifically for asphalt shingle roofs. Some cleaners are so strong that they can damage the shingles, nails, or glue holding them in place. Also, avoid high-pressure washing, as it can damage the shingles and cause them to rip off the roof.
Start at the highest point of your roof and work your way down. First, use a soft-bristled brush or a roof rake to remove any debris that has accumulated. Then, use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to apply the cleaning solution. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the cleaner and rinsing thoroughly.
Be sure to work on a day when the weather is mild and overcast. If it is too hot, the cleaning solution will evaporate before it has a chance to work. And if it is too cold, the shingles may freeze and crack.
If you have a shingle roof, you can prevent algae and moss growth by keeping it clean. Routinely removing debris, keeping trees trimmed, and using an algicide that can kill the algae spores before they become a problem will make your shingles last longer and look better.
Gutters Cleaning
Clogged gutters can lead to water damage to roofs, walls, and doors. They can also damage landscaping, basements and foundations. Gutters must be cleaned regularly to avoid this damage. Gutter cleaning is often a difficult job, and is best left to professionals. The cost of professional gutter cleaning can vary depending on the size of the house and the number of stories, as well as the type of roof.
Professional gutter cleaners will start by setting up a ladder in a safe place. They will then use a broom or brush to sweep away debris. If there are any stains, they will use a pressure washer or other power tool to blast away the dirt and grime. After removing all the debris, they will rinse the gutters and downspouts with a hose.
Some companies offer additional services on the ladder, such as reinforcing sagging gutters, adding end caps, and replacing missing fasteners. This may increase the total cost of the gutter cleaning service.
Most companies will provide their own ladders and tools, but they will need to rent a power washer or other cleaning equipment for larger jobs. Some will also need to hire a worker to help stabilize the ladder and hand them tools as needed. Ladders are dangerous to climb, so it is important to make sure that they are sturdy and that the worker has a harness and safety goggles.
If the homeowner wants to clean their gutters from the ground, it is a good idea to lay down a tarp or plastic sheet to collect the debris as it falls. This will prevent the dirt from staining the landscape and driveway. The homeowner should also wear long pants and gloves to protect themselves from the dirt.
Angi’s certified professionals have years of experience in gutter cleaning, roof washing and roof maintenance. These experts have been vetted and rated by homeowners like you, and they will help you get the job done right the first time. They will give you an accurate estimate and work with your schedule to meet your needs.