Why Roof Cleaning is Essential for Homeowners

Why Roof Cleaning is Essential for Homeowners: Benefits, Methods, and Tips

Your roof is the first line of protection against the elements and it keeps your home safe against rain, wind, snow, and intense sunshine. But as time goes on, your roof can become covered with dirt, moss, algae and other debris, which is more than unsightly. Roof cleaning is important to the homeowners because it helps them maintain the integrity, functionality and beauty of their homes. This article will discuss the importance of roof cleaning, roof cleaning methods and the best methods of keeping your roof in good shape.

The Need of Roof Cleaning

Washington has a mild climate, and the amount of rainfall is relatively high, particularly during the fall and winter seasons. Although this may be good to have lush green sceneries, this is also the perfect condition to have algae, moss and other organic growths to grow on your roof. This is why home owners should consider roof cleaning:

1. Avoids Roof Damage

Prevention of long-term damage is one of the greatest reasons why roofs should be cleaned. Moss and algae are a frequent issue as the climate is cool and moist. Moss only grows well in dark places and when not taken care of, it has the ability to raise the shingles and tiles and water can enter through the bottom. This, in the long run, causes the roof to rot and weaken the structure of the roof which can cause leakages which will need to be repaired at an expensive cost.

Algae, however, may cause ugly black stains on your roof that will lower the curb appeal and make your home appear older. Algae may also enter the surface and leave permanent stains, which are hard to get rid of in case they are not treated.

2. Improves Curb Appeal

A clean roof is a significant element of the total look of your house. Algae and moss may cause your roof to appear weathered and old even though the rest of your home is in good shape. Roof cleaning will eliminate these ugly growths and make your roof look like it did when it was new. A nice roof can make the difference between a home that is sold and one that is not, or at least the difference between a home that looks good and one that does not.

3. Enhances Energy Efficiency

Although it is not always an apparent advantage, roof cleaning can contribute to the energy efficiency of your house. Debris, moss, and algae on the roofs increase the amount of heat that the sun radiates, and this may cause your house to be hotter in the summer seasons. This will lead to higher energy use because your air conditioning system will have to work extra hard to ensure that the temperature is comfortable.

A clean roof is more reflective to sunlight and can keep your home cooler, which will not put as much pressure on your HVAC system. The result is reduced energy costs and a more environmentally friendly house.

4. Increases the Life of Your Roof

Your roof is one of your biggest investments and maintaining it will be very important in maximizing its life. Cleaning the roof regularly will also eliminate the debris and growths that may damage the roof with time. Cleaning your roof will not only make it look good, but also will avoid premature wear and tear. This will extend the life of your roof by years and save you the expenses of replacing your roof.

Roof cleaning: what you should know

As far as cleaning your roof is concerned, there are a couple of different ways that you can use and each one has its advantages and disadvantages. The most appropriate way to manage your roof will depend on its material, the kind of growth on it, and what you want. The following are the most popular roof cleaning techniques.

1. Pressure Washing

One of the commonest roof cleaning methods is pressure washing. It involves the use of high pressure water to remove moss, algae and debris on your roof. Although pressure washing may be an effective way of getting rid of stubborn growths, it is necessary to mention that it may be dangerous when not performed properly.

Pros:

• Quick and efficient in the removal of moss, algae, and rubbish.

• It applies well on asphalt shingles, which are prevalent houses.

Cons:

• Shingles may be damaged by high pressure, particularly when they are old or weak.

There is a risk of forcing water under shingles and causing leaks or water damage as a result of pressure washing.

Pressure washing is a task that should be left to the professionals since they understand how to regulate the pressure so as not to damage your roof.

2. Soft Washing

Soft washing is a milder form of pressure washing in which low-pressure water is mixed with special cleaning solutions. These solutions dissolve the moss, algae and other organic growths at the root level and thus it becomes easy to eliminate them without damaging the roof.

• Pros:

Safe to any kind of roofing materials such as asphalt, wood and clay tiles.

Durability, because soft washing destroys moss and algae to the root, which means that it will not grow back.

No danger of breaking shingles and forcing water under the roof.

• Cons:

It is time-consuming compared to pressure washing since the cleaning solution requires time to act.

Professional equipment and knowledge are required to be effective.

Homeowners who want to find a safe and effective roof cleaning option that will not damage their roof in the long run are often advised to use soft washing.

3. Manual Cleaning

On small roofs or minor build up, cleaning may be done manually. In this approach, moss, algae, and other debris are removed manually using brushes, scrapers, or custom tools by scraping them off the roof. Although it is a cheap solution, it is not always feasible to use it on bigger roofs or large extensions.

• Pros:

Gives more control because you can target areas.

No danger of high-pressure water doing harm to the roof.

• Cons:

Monotonous and hard work.

It may be hazardous when you lack the necessary safety gear and experience in working at a height.

Cleaning by hand is usually only suitable on smaller roofs or spot cleaning.

Pros and Cons of Do-It-Yourself Roof Cleaning and Professional Roof Cleaning

Although one might be tempted to approach roof cleaning as a do-it-yourself project, it is usually advisable to leave the task to the professionals. Here’s why:

Safety

A roof is a hazardous place to clean, particularly when one is working on a height. Using ladders and walking on an inclination surface exposes one to falls and injuries. Safety equipment such as harnesses and ladders are required to make the job safe, and professional roof cleaners possess such equipment.

Expertise

Roof cleaners are trained and experienced to know and recognize the possible problems that might not be visible at the moment like broken shingles or concealed leakages. They are also conversant with the right cleaning procedures to prevent damages on your roof.

Equipment

Professional roof cleaners possess more efficient and safer cleaning solutions and equipment than those available to do it yourself. They are able to employ pressure washers, soft washing systems, and environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals that do not harm your roof or the environment.

Time and Convenience

Cleaning the roof is a laborious activity that takes a lot of time particularly when you are performing the exercise on your own. Professional roof cleaners will save you time and trouble and you can concentrate on other home maintenance jobs and be assured that your roof will be cleaned properly.

In summary, a clean and safe roof should be kept.

Cleaning roofs is an important aspect of housekeeping. The wet climate of the region makes it necessary to clean your roof regularly to avoid damages caused by moss, algae, and debris. Regardless of whether you clean your roof yourself or pay a professional, the advantages of roof cleaning are obvious: it will increase your curb appeal, it will help prevent damages, it will make your home more energy efficient and it will help your roof last longer.

As a homeowner, it is a wise choice to consider having your roof cleaned regularly which can save you money, help to protect your home and ensure the roof looks its best in the years to come.