Roofs protect us from the elements, so they need to be cleaned regularly to keep them looking and functioning well. Using the right cleaners can remove moss, dirt and grime, and prevent stains from returning for up to a year.
Eco-friendly roof cleaning products are gentle and safe for the environment, your family, plants and wildlife. They are also a safer option for those with sensitivity to bleach and chemical products. Contact Roof Cleaning Summerville SC for professional help.
A dirty roof is not only unsightly but can endanger the structure of your home. This is because moss, algae and lichen can strip the protective oils from shingles allowing water to seep into your home and damage the walls, ceilings and foundation. In addition, clogged gutters and downspouts can allow standing water to overflow into the home causing additional damage and potentially mold and mildew. Regular cleaning of your roof can eliminate these growth contaminants and extend the life of your shingles.
If you decide to take on this project yourself, make sure that you are comfortable working at heights and have the proper safety equipment. This includes a ladder that is sturdy enough for your weight, as well as gloves and goggles to protect your eyes from the harsh chemicals used in most cleaning solutions. It is also a good idea to have a second set of hands or someone nearby to help you if needed.
The most important part of a safe roof cleaning is to choose the right chemicals and to be aware that not all cleaning solutions are compatible with all roofing materials. Using standard household bleach, for example, can damage asphalt shingles. If you have a shingle roof, it is best to use a solution that is specifically designed for this material. Several brands are available, including Wet and Forget, which offers a deep clean and is safe for many different types of surfaces.
Before you start your roof cleaning, it is also a good idea to pre-soak any grass or plants that are located near the area you are planning to work on. This will prevent the plants from being drenched with cleaning solution that can damage them. It is also a good idea to wait until the rainy season has passed before starting your cleaning. This is because rain can make the surface of your roof slippery and can increase the chances of falling off or injuring yourself.
Once you are ready to start cleaning, start at one corner of the roof and work your way across. This will allow you to avoid spraying yourself in the face and allow you to stay more focused on the task at hand. Be sure to move slowly and thoroughly.
Debris Removal
Debris can add up quickly on a roof, and it is important to remove as much of it as possible before starting to clean. This will save you time and effort, as well as reduce the risk of injury or property damage.
Using a heavy rubber glove, scoop up as many debris particles as you can safely reach. A vinyl rake may also be helpful to get to areas that are too high to reach.
Then, take the time to clear any gutters and downspouts that are clogged with debris. A clogged gutter system can cause rainwater to back up on the roof, leading to mold and mildew problems inside the home. It can also prevent water from flowing away through the shingles and down the structure of the home, which can cause moisture damage over time.
Be sure to use a safe, non-toxic cleaning solution that is compatible with your roof and shingles. Many harsh chemicals can actually damage shingles or leave behind a residue that promotes growth of moss, mildew, and algae. This can be very expensive in the long run, so it is always best to use a gentle product that will kill all unwanted growth without damaging the shingles or surrounding vegetation.
Before applying the cleaning solution, wet the area of the roof that you are working on with a hose at ground level. This will help the cleaning solution stick to the surface and provide you with an easier time rinsing it off when the work is completed. You should also pre-soak any grass and landscaping around the home that will be exposed to the cleaning solution. This will ensure that the plants are not harmed by the cleaners as they are rinsed away.
It is also a good idea to notify your neighbours that you will be working on the roof if you live in a neighbourhood with close houses. This will give them the opportunity to take care of any pets or children that might be bothered by the noise and overspray from the cleaning process.
Chemical Application
Your roof is the structure that protects your home, family, and possessions from the outdoors elements. It’s durable construction and materials give it the ability to hold up well under the elements, but it does require periodic cleanings to ensure the best performance. Cleaning your roof is a safe and effective way to get rid of moss, mildew, dirt, algae, and other debris buildup that can affect the look of your property and lead to damage or wear and tear.
Chemically cleaning your roof involves applying a special cleaning solution to the surface of the roof and leaving it for a period of time while the chemicals are working. The specialized cleaner is then rinsed off the roof using low-pressure water. The low-pressure wash will remove the specialized cleaning solution, as well as any lingering stains or discoloration on the roof surface.
There are many different cleaning products available to clean a roof. Some are more effective than others, and some are safer than others. Regardless of the type of product used, it is important to follow all safety precautions and to read the label carefully. Certain chemicals are very hazardous, while others may be toxic or damaging if not used properly.
One of the first chemicals that make up a roof cleaning solution is sodium hydroxide. This high-alkaline cleaning substance is also known as caustic soda or lye, and can break down the petroleum-based products in asphalt shingles if very high concentrations are used.
However, when diluted appropriately and washed down quickly, it can easily remove dirt, stains, mold, algae, and other organic growth from the roof. The key is to use a product that has a low pH level and a wide range of dilution levels so that it is safe for the shingles and other components on the roof.
Another common ingredient in commercial roof cleaning products is chlorine bleach. Some contractors will mix chlorine bleach with an array of varied chemicals such as phosphates, dish and laundry detergents, assorted surfactants, and odor-masking scents. Unfortunately, these haphazard chemical concoctions call into question the reliability of product consistency, stability, and safety and can release an intensely toxic odor that can drift up to a block away from your property, exposing your neighbors as well.
Rinsing
Adding value to your home – A clean roof is attractive and helps protect the interior of your house from moisture damage. It also keeps unwelcome insects and critters away from your house. Regular cleaning also prevents algae and moss from building up, causing them to deteriorate faster.
Water Damage Prevention – If a shingle or tile roof is not cleaned, it will eventually develop cracks and holes in it. Then rain and snow will seep through these holes, causing damage to the internal structure of your home. This could result in mold and mildew as well as damaged carpets, walls and furniture. By regularly washing your roof, you can prevent these problems and maintain the integrity of your home.
Preventing Moss Regrowth – Using a specialized chemical treatment after washing your roof can help prevent moss regrowth for up to three years. This treatment also extends the life of your siding and roof.
This is an essential step that is sometimes overlooked when having your roof washed. The chemicals used in the washing process can be very harmful to plants around your home. Therefore, rinsing is vital to reduce the effects of the chemicals on plants and flowers near your house. Rinsing your roof after washing ensures that no residual chemicals remain on the surface. The rinse will also wash off any dust or dirt that may have accumulated on the surface.
A low-pressure rinse is often recommended after a roof cleaning. It is a more environmentally-friendly method that uses a biodegradable solution to penetrate the cracks and crevices of your roof and dissolve build-up. This method is safer for your roof and the environment, and it can be just as effective as a pressure wash.
A chlorine wash is a common choice for many homeowners because it can be very effective at killing moss and algae, but it can also cause damage to your roof. Chlorine wash can also be dangerous to animals, plants and people if not properly handled. In addition, chlorinated water can leave behind a residue on surfaces that can stain and discolor them.