Roof cleaning is not at the top of many homeowners’ to-do lists, but it should be done regularly to remove growths like algae and moss and prevent long-term damage to the roof. The best way to do this is by hiring Roof Cleaning Summerville SC which uses low-pressure washing or chemical treatment.
Pressure washing is one of the most common roof cleaning techniques. It blasts away dirt, grime, moss, and algae on your roof to help you keep your home clean and protected from the elements. It’s also effective at removing fungus, which is an important part of your roofing system’s health. If left untreated, fungus will eat through your shingles, causing them to break down and deteriorate. It’s important to get rid of fungus before it spreads to the rest of your home.
However, pressure washing can damage your roof if it’s not done properly. High-pressure water can crack and destroy shingles, leaving your roof susceptible to further damage. It’s important to use a professional with proper training and experience in cleaning roofs. In addition to using a low-pressure wash, your professional should use a safe chemical that kills algae at the spore level. They should also rinse thoroughly to ensure that all of the chemicals have been removed from your roof.
Soft washing is a gentler alternative to pressure washing that can be used on most roof materials, including asphalt shingle roofs. It involves spraying a mild cleaning solution onto your roof, then allowing it to soak in for a few minutes. This process removes the buildup and helps prevent future growth of moss, algae, and lichen. It can also be used on tile, slate, and metal roofs.
The gentle cleaning technique is particularly useful for older roofs that may be in disrepair. It’s also a great option for homeowners who don’t want to risk damaging their roof with a high-pressure washer. It’s important to note, though, that soft washing isn’t as effective at removing tough stains as pressure washing.
Keeping your roof free of algae and fungus will protect it from further damage and help you maintain your property value. Algae and fungus can rot shingle roofs and cause them to break down more quickly. Fortunately, professional roof cleaning can kill the organisms at the spore level and leave your home looking beautiful and protected for years to come. Frequent roof cleaning can also help you avoid costly repairs in the future.
Soft washing is a roof cleaning technique that removes the buildup of dirt, mold, mildew and other organic matter without damaging your shingles. It is the safest method of cleaning a roof and is recommended by roofing manufacturers. This is because it doesn’t use a high-pressure stream of water that can void your warranty and cause damage to the granules of your shingles. This method also eliminates dangerous germs that can grow on the surface of your shingles and inside your home, keeping you and your family healthy.
The soft washing process utilizes a large proportion of cleaning chemicals and a lower volume of water versus pressure, typically no more than the pressure that comes out of your garden hose. The cleanser is applied to the surface of your roof or the area where you’ve noticed the most growth and left on to kill off all of the organisms causing the staining. Depending on the area, it may then be rinsed off.
The chemical used in this type of wash is normally a non-hazardous, environmentally friendly detergent that is also free from perfumes and fragrances. This type of cleaner is safe for your rooftop shingles and also won’t harm any plants underneath it. It also uses less water than pressure washing equipment, protecting our environment by minimizing run-off into nearby streams and ponds around your home.
After the cleanser has done its job, it’s then rinsed away with a low-pressure spray. This ensures that all of the fungus and bacteria are killed off, but does not wash off any of the valuable granules on your shingles. This allows your shingles to stay strong, waterproof and attractive for much longer than they would if the granules were to be washed off during a pressure wash.
If you’ve noticed black streaks on your roof, they’re likely Gloeocapsa magma (algae). Algae can damage a roof significantly, making it look unsightly and eventually leading to rot. A soft wash will eradicate this problem safely and effectively, preventing the need for costly roof repairs or replacements. In addition, it will help to keep your home cool by preventing the penetration of UV rays through the roof.
This roof cleaning method uses a chemical solution to break down dirt and stains that can build up over time. It is typically sprayed on the roof and left to penetrate the pores of the material. This is a fast and effective way to remove organic growths like algae, mildew and moss. The chemicals also remove stains caused by weather and pollution.
When choosing a contractor for your roof cleaning, ask them what type of chemicals they use. Some companies use a homemade formula of high-strength chlorine bleach mixed with an array of different chemicals including phosphates, dish and laundry detergents, surfactants and odor-masking fragrances. These haphazard chemical concoctions call into question product reliability, stability and safety. They also produce noxious fumes that can drift a block away, exposing your family and neighbors.
A good contractor will follow shingle manufacturers (ARMA) recommendations when cleaning roofs with bleach. They will also use a runoff recovery system, cover any plants that may be affected by the bleach, and rinse thoroughly afterward to prevent damage. In addition, they will rinse the shingles and plants with water to dilute harmful bleach and ensure that all of it is removed.
Be very wary of any company that claims to “not use bleach.” The ARMA recommends that homeowners use household strength sodium hypochlorite (pool chlorine) and water to remove moss, mildew and algae from their asphalt shingle roofs. The bleach must be diluted properly to avoid corroding the shingles or plants, and should be used in combination with zinc strips near the roof’s peak to help reduce the regrowth of these organisms.
If you want to do it yourself, there are many products on the market that claim to be safe and non-bleach. These are generally formulated to be gentler than bleach, but will not effectively remove organic growths or stains from your roof. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, it is important to research the best products and techniques for your specific roofing material. It is also a good idea to consult with a professional roof cleaner who can advise you on the right solution for your home.
When cleaning a roof, safety is paramount. Using the proper equipment is key to protecting yourself, your employees, and your customers. This is especially true if you are utilizing the more dangerous method of power washing. Having the right ladder will help you get to your roof safely, and rubber-soled shoes are always a good idea for working on a wet roof. When possible, work in the shade instead of direct sunlight. This will prevent the cleaning solution from drying too quickly and damaging the shingles.
When it comes to power washing, there are many different types of equipment available. While some equipment is geared towards specific needs, most power washers can be used for basic roof cleaning. A basic power washing machine will have a high pressure pump and a water container with an on/off switch. This will allow you to adjust the flow of water and sprayer pressure as needed.
A more advanced power washing system will feature a chemical transfer pump. This will mix your chemicals with water for you and eliminate the need to calculate the correct chemical concentration level. It will also prevent overspray and chemical runoff, making it safer for you and your crew.
This type of roof cleaning system is ideal for those who need to remove algae, moss, and other organisms from their roof. It is also a great option for those who are looking to sell their home, as most underwriters will require that the roof be cleaned before closing.
One of the most popular products for roof cleaning is bleach-based cleaners. These are typically sold in quart plastic bottles and one gallon cans. They are highly effective and work well on most shingle roofs. They are however, extremely harsh chemicals, and can wreak havoc on plants that are in close proximity. They also contain a lot of odors and fumes and should only be used by those who are experienced with using them.
There is a newer product on the market that uses less water than traditional roof cleaning methods. The RoofTec system from RPM companies is ideal for roof cleaning as it is quiet, efficient, and doesn’t introduce harmful chemicals into the local environment. The system can be used on shingle, metal, and tile roofs, and is designed to provide a deep clean with very little water. It is easy to operate and requires a two-person crew.