Is Your Roof In Need Of Cleaning Here Are A Few Reasons To Have Your Roof Cleaned
Your roof is exposed to the elements all year long, protecting your family from adverse weather. Its only natural that algae can grow after a while, and dirt and soggy leaves can begin to accumulate. Fortunately, there are methods to wash your roof, though many homeowners dont think about their roof much without obvious problems. When they do, they may wonder whether roof cleaning is truly necessary, whether algae growth and fallen leaves and debris will cause any lasting damage to the roof.
The truth is that roof cleaning is important and inevitable if you want your roof to last for the expected lifespan. In todays blog, well address your questions and concerns about roof cleaning.
How Pacific Nw Roofs Should Be Cleaned
First things first: Any roof expert will recommend that you dont climb up on the roof yourself. Weve seen too many serious injuries to people who were being cautious but simply didnt have the expertise to navigate the roof safely.
Its especially dangerous in the Northwest too moss, fungi, and moisture make your roof extra slippery.
At Northwest Roof Maintenance we know how to get the job done right so that your roof will need to be cleaned much less often than if you tried to clean it yourself. Heres how:
Now lets figure out how often you should have someone clean your roof.
What Are Some Other Problems A Roof Cleaning Can Tackle
While algae stains are one of the biggest problems in the Mid-Atlantic, a professional roof cleaning can also address:
- grime and soot that has built up over the winter
- mold, which is usually a bigger problem than algae because of potential health hazards if it gets into your drywall.
- moss on the roof, which holds moisture and can lead to rot.
- lichen, a mold/fungus combo thats usually light green and can damage shingles if left untreated.
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How Much Does It Cost To Clean A Standard Roof On A Semi Detached House
So again, depending on the cleaning method, and the accessibility, the price for this can range anywhere from £950 to £1500 pounds. And the price for a detached house, a larger detached house, for a full roof clean as in a transformation to restore the roof, can start from £1500 pounds and go upwards depending on the size, the access, etc.
Is Roof Cleaning Necessarily
Personally, I do not think roof cleaning is entirely necessary. Its certainly necessary if the person wants the roof to look like new, or is worried about the overall appearance of their property. Its certainly necessary if the person is fed up cleaning out the gutters regularly, because their getting blocked by the moss or its definitely necessary if the person is fed up with sweeping moss from their front door or their patio. But structurally, I dont think its necessary.
There are some people that may argue that a build up of moss can increase the weight on your roof, and that moss can hold water and it can freeze, and create unnecessary strain on your roof. But I havent personally seen an example where a roof has been destroyed because it has not been cleaned. So, personally, to be completely honest, I dont think roof cleaning is entirely necessary, unless you want to improve the appearance of your home, or again, youre fed up with dealing with moss.
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Not Thinking About Safety
Roofing is one of the top 10 riskiest jobs. According to the annual Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries report, 108 roofing contractors died as a result of workplace injuries in 2020. That means that climbing roofs is dangerous not only to the inexperienced but professional roofers as well.
So do not get on your roof without proper safety equipment, including proper ladders and personal protective gear like roofing harness safety kit.
Keep in mind that someone else is responsible if you climb a roof and get injured or die. But if you hire someone to fix your roof and they get hurt or die, you are responsible because you become their employer.
So, if you hire a professional, make sure they have Workers Comp insurance so that youre protected as well.
Alternative Ways To Clean A Roof
The main reason to not use your pressure washer to clean your roof isnt that the water jets will damage your shingles. Its just that there are better, more effective methods.
If your roof is covered in leaves, moss and dirt, try a leaf blower to sweep the roof clean. Got moldy roof stains? Just use a garden spray nozzle and some nontoxic chemicals to remove those ugly black streaks. That should get your shingles looking as good as they were on the day they were nailed into place.
Most of the time, though, a dingy-looking roof isnt a sign it needs to be cleaned its a sign it needs to be replaced. Repairing a few shingles is a simple enough process that any DIYer with a head for heights can tackle. Tearing off a roof entirely and then reshingling the whole thing is a much more complicated process best left to the pros.
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Is Your Roof Due For Cleaning
According to the National Roofing Association, All roofs require periodic maintenance to achieve maximum roof life. They recommend inspecting your roof at least twice a year.
Like changing your oil, roof cleaning protects your investment by extending the life of your roof. A clean, well-maintained roof will add years to its life and value to your home. More importantly, the structural damage caused by algae, mold, mildew, moss, and debris can put you and your family at risk.
If you think your roof is due for a cleaning, or are not sure whether it is, we can help. Our professional cleaners will provide an evaluation of your roof free of charge, and can provide no-contact roof cleaning services. Call us today or
Should I Clean Or Replace My Roof
The best thing about DryHome Roofing & Siding is that were complete roofing professionals. Whether you need to repair, replace or simply clean your roof, we have the skilled staff and equipment required to do the job. For a simple problem like algae stains, professional cleaning is often all it takes to get your roof looking great and avoid more costly problems down the road. Routine soft-washing increases the lifespan of your roof and can delay a more expensive replacement. We can also explore options like installing algae-resistant copper strips at the top of your roof to protect shingles moving forward. And when its time to replace your roof, we can install new algae-resistant shingles. The first step is getting our professional team up on your roof for an estimate and a maintenance plan. A safe, effective spring cleaning is often a terrific first step.
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It Keeps The Roof Energy
Tile roofs are very energy-efficient when they are first installed, but if you want them to retain their energy-efficiency, you need to take good care of them.
Having your roof cleaned regularly will keep it in good shape so it remains an efficient barrier between living spaces and the outdoors. A streak-free roof also reflects more sunlight, keeping your home cooler in the summer. Your air conditioner wont have to run as often, which is good for your wallet and for the planet.
Hire A Professional Roof Cleaner
Always hire a professional to clean your roof to ensure longevity. Having an expert pressure washer clean your tile roof means your roof will get full-service care, from cleaning to repair and an eventual sparkling clean roof. According to Home Advisor, the average quote for roof cleaning is $0.20 and $0.60 per square foot.
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Steam Cleaning You Roof
The forth type is for really delicate roofs or when there is some stubborn white spots of lichen that need heat to remove them.
To watch a video and read more about the four different methods of roof cleaning and which one might be best suited to your roof read our blog on The Four Main Methods of Roof Cleaning.
So the first question we need to answer which is often avoided by exterior cleaning companies is:
Things To Remember When Cleaning Your Roof
After you remove debris from the gutters, test the system using your water hose . Run the hose across the roof to simulate rain. Check that all the water is flowing into the gutters and that they, and the downspouts, are clear and functioning. There should be no water pooling on top of your roof.
Still dirty? If your roof appears to need more than just a hose-cleaning, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Roofing materials will begin to look weathered over time. Look for areas that appear moist or warped, rather than just aged or weathered. Long-term, localized moisture is your roofs enemy and should be investigated.
- If moss, algae or related unattractive stains are a problem, most roofs can be gently cleaned with a biodegradable chemical cleaner to discourage moss growth and help extend the life of asphalt shingles. They can be cleaned by the homeowner using regular household items. Note that installing copper or zinc flashing can also help to reduce moss and algae as they naturally contain antifungal elements which wash down the roof and protect it from these growths. Algae stains are common in humid parts of the country but not common in the Southwest.
- Some roofing materials may have a manufacturers clause regarding regular cleaning or maintenance. Keep your warranty effective by following their guidelines.
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Not Efficacious In Terms Of Cost And Time
Cleaning your roof can be expensive, and even if you do it yourself, you will still need to acquire the necessary equipment and materials. Also, since you are not a skilled and experienced expert, the actual task will take longer. Despite your best efforts, it is possible that your roof will not be adequately cleaned.
Consider the financial consequences of failing to get your roof cleaned properly. The expense of repairing roof damage or even replacing your roof is far more expensive than the cost of regular cleaning. The only thing youre doing is making a tiny investment in your home that will pay off in the long run. Another vital question homeowners ask is if pressure washing is a suitable roof cleaning method.
Things To Know About Roof Cleaning
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Cleaning And Inspecting Your Roof
The most common task involved in roof cleaning is removing debris from rain gutters to allow rainwater to flow through the roof drainage system as designed, and help prevent water damage to the exterior and interior of your home. Gutter cleaning is a great time for a general health inspection of your roof.The best times to do an inspection are during spring and fall as the seasons change.
If possible, use a ladder to work on clearing your rain gutters. As you work, carry out a good visual inspection of as much of the roof as you can see. Judge the condition of shingles, downspouts, gutters, and skylights. Take note of any dark stains or discolorations, such as water stains. These are possible signs of water infiltration or areas that may need furtherinspection and repair.
Here are a few things to include in your spring and fall cleaning and inspection:
- Clear and test gutters and downspouts. Use a broom, gloves or other light tool to clean out debris from these important systems that direct water away and off your roof. The roof valleys and the roofs intentional slope are designed to direct rainwater from the roof to the gutter system. When debris accumulates on your rooftop, the entire system is affected. Loose or broken gutters and downspouts need to be repaired so that they do not misdirect rainwater and cause damage to your home.
All Star Plumbing And Restoration
Water damage can cause major problems that you cant ignore. Keep an eye out for roof leaks before they cause damage to your house and safety.
Procrastination may be used to solve a variety of domestic issues. In addition, a leaking roof, on the other hand, should be at the top of your list of house maintenance concerns. Roof leaks can occur due to a number of factors, including poor roof construction, wind or storm destruction, and a lack of upkeep. You may also need to replace your roofs. Remember that most roofs are designed to endure just 20 to 30 years.
Isnt it true that even a minor roof leak may be disastrous for the entire family? Most homeowners believe that a leaking roof is only a structural issue, but it may pose a number of additional safety and even health hazards. Constant water infiltration will ultimately make its way down from the attic to the houses foundation, inflicting a lot of expensive damage along the way. Here are a few less visible ways a roof leak might cause harm to your house.
6 Major Issues Related to Water Damage
Increased Utility Expenses And Misused Energy
Mold And Mildew Problems In The Home
Mold and mildews is one of the most significant long-term effects of a leaking roof. Mold may travel throughout a homes structure, into the heating system, and then via the vents to the rest of the house, where it can infest carpets, furnishings, and even clothes.
Mold Poses A Health Risk
Fire Hazard From Water Damage
Water Stains And Spots
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Cleaning Roofs With Uncommon Shingles
The above advice applies to roofs with asphalt shingles. If you have a less common style of shingle on your roof, it may be safer to use a pressure washer to clean them. Homeguide actually recommends homeowners with clay roof tiles use a pressure washer set at 1200 psi to clean their roof.
If your roof does have specialty shingles, do further research and check with the manufacturer to learn exactly what kind of cleaning methods they recommend.
What Kind Of Roof Damage Is Covered By Insurance
Each homeowners policy has a list of perils that are included and excluded. A standard homeowners policy includes:
One essential element of roof damage being covered by insurance is that it must be accidental and sudden. Wear and tear are always excluded. Another common exclusion is cosmetic damage, so knowing the difference between that and damage that needs repair is vital. Damage from your property and animals is also usually excluded.
Several of the most common ways your roof can be damaged are covered, including:
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Roof Cleaning Is A Regular Part Of Roof Care
Its smart thinking to wonder if youre providing the right care and maintenance for your roof. After all, its the most important barrier between your home and family and the weather. Neglecting your roof can lead to creeping damage that may be expensive to repair and could cause loss of personal property from intrusion of water and mold. Doing at least an annual cleaning and inspection will go a long way to prevent long-term issues with your roof. A clean, well-maintained roof will add years to its life and value to your home.
Should You Clean Your Roof Diy Style Or Leave It To A Professional
Houston is notorious for its heat, humidity, and hurricane season, and Houston homeowners know all too well how much damage these three weather events can create in and around the house. Special weather conditions call for special home maintenance, and your roof is not excluded from that list. But for most homeowners, remembering the last time they thought about roof maintenance would probably be a fruitless effort.
If youre with the majority and cant remember the last time you cleaned your roof or find yourself thinking roof cleaning, what?! Should you clean your roof every year? Two years? How often is enough, and why did nobody teach me this?!?, keep reading to learn about protecting your home ahead of the summer season.
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Steam Cleaning And Your Lawn
Many homeowners who hire someone to steam clean their roof are horrified to learn that steam cleaning does more than damage your roof. The hoses that are attached to a steam cleaner obviously carry the steam, and they get superheated as well. Services that dont care much about the longevity of your roof probably dont care much about the health of your lawn either, which is why they often roll their hoses out straight across your grass.
You can guess what a superheated hose does to your grass.
