What Is Roof Cleaning?
Every property has a roof. Without roofs, the interiors of homes and businesses would be at the mercy of the outside elements, and the world would be in chaos. Fortunately, we have roofs to protect us whenever we are inside our properties. However, while we relax and enjoy ourselves, roofs pay the price. Over time, they collect debris, and though we might not notice it at first, the true consequences of this process will eventually rear their ugly heads. So, what is roof cleaning, and how can you benefit from this process? Keep reading to learn more.
We are Revive Paver Restoration, and roof cleaning is one of our specialties! Not only can we teach you more about this process, but we can even do it for you if you want. Feel free to give us a call anytime you need help.
Why Roofs Need to Be Cleaned
Why exactly is roof cleaning so important? As roofs collect debris, they will eventually become darker and duller. This is because a film of grime suffocates the “true appearance” of the roof. This won’t just make your roof less visually appealing. It also negatively affects your property as a whole. This is inconvenient for homeowners and outright disastrous for business owners who need to attract customers in order to stay profitable.
Roof debris can even cause damage to your roof over time. This is because particles of debris grind against roofs, gradually eroding them. Additionally, moss, mold, and algae increase the risk of roof moisture damage. To avoid roof damage, we highly recommend having your roof cleaned once per year. So, is your roof already overdue for service?
Why Soft Washing Is Necessary
What is the best technique for roof cleaning? Believe it or not, the answer is not pressure washing. In fact, pressure washing will actually cause damage to your roof! That’s because roofs are delicate structures, and pressurized water will force moisture underneath shingles and tiles. This can cause leaks and other frustrating forms of damage—and the last thing you want to do is spend hundreds of dollars repairing this damage.
Soft washing is the best way to clean roofs, but what is soft washing anyway? It is a pressure washing alternative that uses lower-pressure water. Typically, soft washing uses 150 to 500 PSI, making it gentle enough to restore even delicate surfaces. This includes roofs made of asphalt, clay, wood, metal, and many other materials, too.
What Will I Need to Soft Wash My Roof?
When asking questions like “What is roof cleaning?”, it’s also important to understand the necessary tools for the work. We’ve included a list for your convenience below. That way, you can determine what you already have, as well as what you need to purchase.
- Pressure Washer. Pressure washers, despite the name, are capable of soft washing because they have adjustable dials that let you select how much water pressure to use.
- Hose/Nozzle. An appropriate hose and nozzle allow you to aim water at surfaces and spray them clean with precision. You won’t be able to do your work without them.
- Sodium Hypochlorite. This cleaning solution is highly effective at breaking down unwanted debris, helping you secure stunning results.
- Safety Equipment. Whenever you handle pressure washing and soft washing equipment, wear eye protection, gloves, full-length pants, and closed-toe shoes.
- Ladder. Finally, you won’t be able to reach your roof without a ladder. Place it in a flat, steady area, and remember the rule of three points of contact.
The Roof Cleaning Process
Now, let’s learn about the roof cleaning process together. Begin by preparing your ladder, climbing up, and inspecting your roof’s condition. (If you discover any damage during this inspection, be sure to avoid washing the afflicted areas, as soft washing can actually make the problem worse.) Next, apply sodium hypochlorite or your preferred cleaning solution to the rooftop. By giving it fifteen minutes to break down debris, you’ll ensure that stubborn grime doesn’t put up a fight as you progress through the project.
After fifteen minutes have passed, thoroughly soft wash the roof with low-pressure water. Work meticulously so that you can ensure every square inch is cleaned. Remember, an important part of roof cleaning is improving your property’s appearance. Because of this, you won’t want to cut any corners. The higher the quality of your work, the better the final results will be!
Challenges of DIY Roof Cleaning
Before you leap into a roof cleaning project, you must understand that there are challenges you’ll face along the way. For example, you’ll need to dedicate a large chunk of your time to the roof cleaning process. For first-time DIYers, this could take as long as six hours, so make sure you schedule your day accordingly. You’ll also want to be well-rested before your DIY roof cleaning project because this work is physically demanding. Being well-rested also makes you more attentive, helping you avoid accidents and injuries.
If you are intimidated by the roof cleaning process, and you don’t think you can do it on your own for whatever reason, don’t worry. There is always an alternative. By reaching out to Revive Paver Restoration, you’ll be able to schedule professional roof cleaning services—allowing you to revitalize your roof without even lifting a finger.
Schedule Our Roof Cleaning Services
What is roof cleaning? As you’ve discovered, it’s a complicated process that requires tools, knowledge, time, and energy. If you are missing any of these resources, and you’d rather not fight to change that, reach out to us! At Revive Paver Restoration, we proudly soft wash roofs for property owners all across the Bradenton, FL community. It would be our absolute pleasure to serve you next.
To get started, contact us online and let us know how we can serve you! We are excited to learn more about your roof cleaning project and provide you with a free cost estimate. That way, you know what you’re paying before you even confirm your appointment details.