Roofs protect you and your home, acting as a shield against weather’s wear and tear. Regular cleaning is essential to making sure they maintain their crucial role. Below, we’ll discuss how to clean shingles to enhance your home’s visual appeal and prolong the lifespan of your roof.
When Should You Clean Your Roof?
You should clean your roof once every one to three years, depending on climate, roof age, and nearby trees. Roofs should also be cleaned if you notice moss and algae growth or when leaves and debris have collected on your roof.
Roof Cleaning Materials
There are several types of solutions you can use for cleaning roof shingles. These include
- Water
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Bleach
- Oxygen bleach
- TSP or sodium hydroxide
- Sodium hypochlorite
Best Way to Clean a Roof
If you want to know how to clean your roof, follow these steps for best results.
- Get the right tools. Before cleaning, make sure you have the proper tools, supplies, and safety equipment.
- Clean out your gutters. Remove debris from your gutters so water can flow freely.
- Choose a cleaning solution. Select a cleaning solution based on your roofing materials and the type of cleaning you’ll be doing. For example, if you’re just removing debris, water will probably suffice. You may need a stronger cleaner for deeper stains.
- Start from the top to the bottom. Work carefully from the top of your roof to the bottom to ensure everything gets clean.
- Double treat. Consider double treatment on stubborn stains or areas with significant buildup.
Mistakes to Avoid While Roof Cleaning
When it comes to cleaning roof shingles, there are a few common mistakes that can lead to long-term damage or injury. Avoid doing any of these to protect yourself and your home.
- Cleaning with a pressure washer. Pressure washers can ruin shingles and lead to water infiltration.
- Working without proper safety equipment. Prioritize safety by wearing appropriate gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and non-slip shoes.
- Using abrasive cleaning brushes. Choose soft-bristle brushes to prevent shingle damage.
- Spraying plants and trees with cleaner solutions. Protect surrounding vegetation, as cleaning solutions can harm plants and trees.
- Waiting until the last minute. Procrastinating can lead to more extensive damage. Regular cleaning is preventive maintenance.
How Long Does It Take to Clean Roof Shingles?
The time it takes to clean will depend on the roof’s materials, size, and washing method. However, many professional roofing experts can clean most roofs in two to five hours.
Benefits of Cleaning Roof Shingles
- Protects your shingle warranty
- Prolongs the lifespan of your roof
- Enhances your home’s visual appeal
- Prevents roof damage caused by moss or algae growth
- Prevents costly repairs, leading to long-term savings
- Enables early detection of potential issues to avoid future expensive problems
The Best Time of Year to Clean Roof Shingles
The best time to clean your roof in Utah is spring and fall. However, if you notice a buildup of debris or see moss or algae growing on your roof, you should clean it before major damage occurs.
Should I Clean My Roof Myself?
It depends on how easy it is to safely get on your roof, how tall your home is, and how comfortable you are doing the work on your own. Cleaning your roof shingles comes with many risks for yourself and your home. It’s safer to contact a roofing professional.
What Is the Cost of Roof Cleaning?
On average, the cost of cleaning a roof is between 20 cents and 70 cents per square foot. That means a typical 1,700-square-foot roof will cost between $340 and $1,190 to clean.
Professional Roof Cleaning Services
With the steps above, you now know how to clean roof shingles effectively. However, if you decide to clean your roof on your own, make sure you understand the risks. You need to choose a chemical solution that won’t damage your roof, ensure your trees and shrubs are covered, and make a dangerous climb to your roof.
If you decide to hire a professional, consider working with M&M Gutters. We provide expert roof cleaning services tailored to your needs. You can sit back and relax while we take care of the cleaning. Contact us today to learn more!
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