Why Regular Roof Cleaning is Needed
Over time it is an unavoidable fact that your roof will need cleaning. Your roof will naturally collect algae, moss, dirt, grime, and debris, and proper cleaning and maintenance is essential to the lifespan of the roof. The good news is regular cleaning of your roof will not only increase the lifespan of the roof and prevent damage, but can also improve the property value of your home. Roof cleaning is a fairly easy and straightforward process, but there are some things you will need to be aware of.
Roof Cleaning - Removing Debris
Debris always seem to end up on top of the roof, luckily removing debris is one of the easiest parts of roof cleaning. In order to safely remove debris from your roof you will first want to make sure you have a sturdy ladder to climb up to your roof with. Once you are on top of the roof you will want to remove any large pieces of debris manually. You can then use a large broom with soft bristles to sweep away any bark, leaves, or other small debris. If there are any metal debris on your roof, such as loose roofing nails, you can always use one of our magnetic sweepers to remove those quickly. After you have taken these steps it is recommended to use a leaf blower to remove any lingering debris you may have missed.
Roof Cleaning - Removing Moss and Algae
Moss and algae are the natural enemies of roofs. These should be removed promptly as they are capable of causing roof leaks and thousands of dollars in damage. In order to remove moss and algae from your roof you should clean the roof with a solution and soft brush. This solution should be acidic, ideally with a pH level below 4. To create this acidic solution we recommend mixing vinegar and hot water at close to a 50/50 ratio, adding some citrus juice to the mixture can help as well. For areas affected by moss, you will want to apply the solution and not rinse it, allowing the solution to kill off the moss, allowing the next rainy day to wash away the solution. For areas with algae growth, you will want to spot clean with a soft brush after applying your acidic solution.
Roof Cleaning - Clearing and Flushing Gutters
It is extremely important to clear your gutters at least once a year, as clogged gutters can lead to leaks and water damage. When cleaning gutters it is recommend to use a scoop to remove any leaves and debris clogging the gutter. Simply dump these debris into a trash bag or onto a tarp to make cleanup quick and easy. Once your gutters are cleared, be sure to flush them with your garden hose, and keep an eye out for leaks in the downspouts!
Important Roof Cleaning Information
There are a few other things you should be aware of when cleaning your roof. Never use a pressure washer for roof cleaning, the high pressure can damage even the most durable roofs. You should also test any roof cleaning solutions on a small surface first to make sure it does not stain or corrode your roof. When cleaning your roof, you should begin applying your solution at the highest point of the roof in order to avoid slipping on a slick roof. You should also make sure you are wearing the proper roofing shoes to avoid slips and falls.
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