Keeping your roof clean and in good condition is an important part of maintaining the overall health of your home. Not only does a clean roof improve the appearance of your home, it also helps keep the home cool in the summer. Having your roof cleaned regularly will also prevent damage that can occur from water leaks. It will also prolong the life of your roof.
A dirty roof can lead to many problems, from water leaks to clogged gutters. Mold and mildew can also develop on a roof, which can be unsightly and potentially harmful to your home. If you find any mold or mildew on your roof, it is best to contact a professional to have it removed. This will not only preserve your home’s structure, but it will also deter re-growth of the mold and mildew.
When cleaning your roof, you will need to consider the type of roof you have. Some types of roofing are more prone to damage than others. If you have a metal or composition roof, it is recommended that you not use chemical cleaning techniques. This type of cleaning is also called “soft washing.” Using soft cleaning methods will help keep your roof in excellent condition for years to come. This will save you from having to replace your roof too soon.
You should also make sure that you clean the gutters. If they are clogged with debris, they can accumulate and cause standing pools of water on your roof. This can lead to the growth of mold, which can then damage the surface of your roof. If you are cleaning the gutters yourself, you should wear protective clothing and safety equipment to avoid getting injured.
It is also important to know how to remove black streaks from your roof. These are usually caused by colonies of blue-green algae. They can seriously affect the performance of asphalt shingles. They also interfere with the reflective properties of the roof. They are often found in the north, west, and shady areas of your roof.
To avoid damaging your shingles, be careful not to apply too much pressure. A professional cleaner will know how to use pressurized water correctly. If you decide to do the cleaning yourself, you should also take care to apply the proper amount of bleach. The American Roof Manufacturers Association (ARMA) recommends that you mix one part bleach to 10 parts water. This solution should sit on your roof for at least 20 minutes before rinsing away with clean water.
In addition to removing mold and moss, roof cleaning will also clean up the oxidation on metal roofs. Moss and lichen can cause your roof to deteriorate more quickly, making it more likely to need replacement. It can also impact the look of your roof, and it can strip the protective oils on your shingles. If you have a tile roof, you should hire a professional to wash it to prevent a potential leak.