Don’t get out the power washer for your roof. Here are some tips for safe, effective roof cleaning.
Have you recently noticed moss on your roof? You most likely checked on your search engine to find out “how to clean your roof” and “how to remove moss.” You would have found a number of ways to clean your roof but, which is the best way and what should you avoid? Here are some tips for you from Four Seasons Roofing.
Power Wash
To clean outside surfaces like patios, decks, driveways, and even siding, power washing is frequently employed. High-pressure water is used in this kind of cleaning to forcibly remove dirt and other loose debris from the area. Most roofing specialists advise clients to steer clear of this form of cleaning for their homes, despite the fact that some businesses have adapted it to roofs because it is quick. The high-intensity cleaning techniques will break down shingle bonding, result in granule loss, and lead to permanent roof damage. While power washing may be useful for some outdoor areas, you shouldn’t clean your roof using this technique.
Moss Removal Using Soft Wash
With the soft wash technique, moss and algae are treated using a low-pressure system and chemical solutions. This technique works well to get rid of moss but is ineffective for cleaning gutters and downspouts or getting rid of debris from the roof. By using a soft wash technique, debris is softly washed into the gutter system. This frequently causes a blockage, especially in the northwest where a home’s roof frequently becomes covered in leaves, needles, and small branches. However, though this method does remove moss and algae, it is not the preferred method in the Northwest.
Dry Roof Cleaning
Moss and algae can be found growing almost any place in the Northwest, including on your roof. It’s recommended to use a moss and algae treatment. Moss treatment, also known as moss killer, eliminates the plant’s roots and keeps moss from harming your roof. Algae will also be killed by this treatment. The organic components of roof shingles are consumed by algae. When the treatment is administered, it will continue to operate for up to 12 months, preventing the regrowth of moss and algae until your next service.
However, a roof cleaning in Puget Sound needs to take more than moss and algae into consideration. In areas with a lot of trees, branches, leaves, needles, other debris can build up on roofs. Debris from the roof needs to be completely removed in order to prevent the gutter system from being overloaded. Low-pressure air or a soft bristle brush can be used to accomplish this in a secure and efficient manner. Both techniques are risk-free for roofing materials and won’t damage the roof.
Ensure that you also clean the gutters and downspouts. Rain frequently washes debris into a home’s gutter system, where it can cause blockages or clogs that prevent water from flowing. To ensure that water can flow through the system, any buildup in the gutters and downspouts must be removed.
Call Four Seasons Roofing
The three-part method of dry roof cleaning:
- treat for moss and algae
- remove debris
- clean out gutters and downspouts
In the Northwest, this is the safest and most efficient method of cleaning a roof. Hire an expert, such as Four Seasons Roofing, that is knowledgeable on how to remove moss and thoroughly clean your roof. Call right away for a free estimate!