Several benefits of roof cleaning are clear: it gets rid of algae, mildew, lichen, and moss. Roof cleaning can also extend the life of metal roofs. Listed below are the reasons why your roof needs cleaning. Read on to find out what to look for, what the cost is, and what precautions should be taken. After reading this article, you will be ready to book your roof cleaning! Let’s start!
Cost
The average cost of roof cleaning varies greatly, depending on the size and complexity of the job. It depends on the roof’s material, pitch, and size. Most contractors will not give you a flat rate, but you should expect to pay around $225 to $500 for a typical roof cleaning job. If you want to do it yourself, you can use a garden hose and a low-pressure washer. However, this may not be as effective as hiring a professional.
Signs
There are a few telltale signs of a need for roof cleaning. Generally, roof stains are black in color. These streaks are caused by gloeocapsa magma, which is a fungus that can damage your roof by creating conditions favorable for the growth of other types of mold. The affected area is typically the north and east sides of the roof. You can also see black streaks Roof restoration on the roof if it is constantly wet.
Methods
You can clean your roof yourself by using one of the several methods that are available. You can use bleach to clean your roof, but it is important to note that bleach is highly acidic and can cause unpleasant odors. Another method is to use a power washer, which blasts dirt and grime away with high-pressure water. This method is not appropriate for all roof types, especially cedar shake and metal ones. Also, bleach can damage aluminum gutters and can cause residuals, since it doesn’t get rid of the algae’s root systems.
Precautions
First, take appropriate safety precautions before you begin cleaning the roof. Be sure to wear a sturdy ladder and use non-skid boots. Make sure you use a garbage bag to prevent chemical spills. You should also gather all of your tools and materials before beginning the task. Wear protective goggles and heavy rubber gloves. Do not use a pressure washer to clean the roof. Water can damage shingles. Do not use it to remove primary dirt, algae, mildew, or lichen. Also, avoid forcefully removing granules from the stone coat of roof panels.
Damage caused by pressure washing
While the first impression of a clean roof may be enticing, pressure washing a roof can actually weaken the system and damage its shingles. Pressure washing strips granules from the asphalt shingles, which protect the roof against harsh elements. A 15-year-old roof contains far fewer granules than a brand-new roof, and this process can cause serious leaks or other problems.
Cost-effectiveness
The cost-effectiveness of roof cleaning depends on the amount of debris and moss on the roof. Pressure washing will cost between $0.20 and $0.70 per square foot. Roof cleaning services can also use a softwash cleaning method, which is less damaging to the roof and is faster. Softwash cleaning also leaves the roof dry, so the cost per square foot will be lower. And because softwashing can be harmful to aquatic life, professional roof cleaning companies will offer to replace any broken tiles or slates.