The roof is exposed to many staining organisms, such as lichen, moss, and algae, which depend on organic materials on the roof. Allowing these organisms to stay longer on your roof can lead to roof damage.
Apart from damaging the roof, stains and streaks from these organisms spoil the general aesthetic appeal of your roof. Unfortunately, finding straightforward information on how to clean your roof can be difficult, but we’ve included some of the best methods below:
1. Chemical Method
Chemical roof cleaning is best suited for roofs with tough stains. Due to the dangerous nature of cleaning chemicals, this method is best done by cleaning professionals. Most professionals use a stain-removing chemical made of chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite), sodium hydroxide, and other powerful cleaning chemicals, such as trisodium phosphate.
To clean the roof using chlorine bleach, spray the roof with the cleaning solution, allow the solution to dry, and respray the solution for maximum impact. Stains, lichens, moss, and algae will disappear gradually
The chemical roof cleaning doesn’t provide immediate results, so it might take a few weeks or months for stains and organisms to clear from the roof. If your area experiences heavy natural rainfall, roof contaminants may clear faster. Nonetheless, you should inspect the roof frequently to monitor the progress.
Besides providing a thorough clean, chemical roof cleaning is also affordable. Bleach-based roof cleaning solution costs between $0.20 and $0.30/square foot. However, you should mind the following;
- Expect a strong odor
- Bleach solution can harm humans and pets
- Bleach can damage plants and surrounding landscaping
2. Low-Pressure, Chemical-Free Method
The low-pressure and chemical-free cleaning method is a perfect alternative for homeowners worried about the potential dangers of using chemicals to clean their roofs. This method doesn’t use any chemicals, be it chlorine bleach or phosphates.
This cleaning method uses low pressure to clean and rinse stains from your roof. Unlike the chemical cleaning method, it provides instant results and won’t damage nearby plants and roof shingles. Low-pressure cleaning costs between $0.20 and $0.60/square foot for this safe and eco-friendly option. Fortunately, veterans may benefit from various assistance programs.
3. High-Pressure Cleaning Method
High-pressure cleaning is the direct opposite of the low-pressure roof cleaning method. This method blasts streams of water in high pressure to remove stains and debris from the roof. However, a pressure wash isn’t suited for all roof types. Excessive pressure can damage and dislodge shingles, and it doesn’t eliminate root systems of growth in your roof, as algae can return.
Endnote
If your roof is infested by moss, algae, or other organisms, either of the above cleaning methods can clean your roof. Regardless of your preferred method, remember that roof cleaning is a dangerous undertaking with fatal accidents. Before choosing to clean your roof by yourself, inquire how much a roof cleaning Seattle company charges. You might be surprised that hiring roof cleaning professionals is easier and safer.
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/WFgOQla6jfQ
ATTENTION READERS
We See The World From All Sides and Want YOU To Be Fully InformedIn fact, intentional disinformation is a disgraceful scourge in media today. So to assuage any possible errant incorrect information posted herein, we strongly encourage you to seek corroboration from other non-VT sources before forming an educated opinion.
About VT - Policies & Disclosures - Comment Policy