Homeowners and commercial property owners rarely give their roofs much thought until something goes wrong and the roofs begin to leak. If a roof is covered with moss, lichen, or algae, that’s a problem. The roof may not be leaking yet, but failing to remove these unwanted substances will only decrease the roof’s life and leave it more susceptible to damage over time.
The first thing most property owners do when they look up and notice moss or algae growth on their roofs is to look into renting a pressure washer. That’s a mistake. Instead, take the time to learn about three of the most important things to keep in mind while cleaning a roof to avoid damage before renting equipment and walking out on the shingles.
Pressure Washers Can Damage Roofs
If used improperly, pressure washers can damage shingles in a variety of ways. Setting the pressure too high will dislodge the granules from asphalt shingles. Pointing the pressure washer up the roof can force water under the shingles, loosening them enough that water can get in or even tearing them off entirely. Even excessive washing can lead to damage that will not only leave homes more prone to leaks but also decrease the lifespan of the roof.
Simply put, it’s not a good idea for property owners who don’t know exactly what they’re doing to pressure wash their own roofs. Instead, check out the services available at aplussoftwash.com to learn how the experts do it and call to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
It’s Important to Take Things Slow
Still convinced that pressure washing is the only way to go? Property owners need to at least do some damage control. It’s important to take things slow and stop to check for damage frequently instead of pressure washing the entire roof and hoping for the best.
It’s not always possible to see damage from eye level. Clean a few shingles at a time then squat down carefully on the roof and look to make sure the granules aren’t coming off and none of the shingles are becoming loose. If any signs of damage are present, stop immediately and call a professional to avoid more substantial damage.
There’s a Difference Between Pressure Washing and Soft Washing
Pressure washers aren’t designed for washing roofs. They’re intended for use on concrete, brick, and other surfaces less susceptible to damage. Soft washing uses some of the same equipment, but professional roof cleaners also have access to specialized nozzles and cleaning agents that make it possible to apply less pressure.
Professional roof cleaners use specialized detergents that target moss and lichens to loosen them before rinsing them off. This allows the experts to use lower pressure settings that will not damage the shingles. Soft washing is the best way to go for property owners who want to extend the life of their roofs and improve their appearances without causing additional damage.
The Bottom Line
Cleaning a roof requires specialized equipment, knowledge, and expertise. Property owners who want to clean their own roofs should exercise extreme caution and stop frequently to evaluate their progress and potential damage. Those who don’t have experience with roof cleaning are better off hiring a company or contractor that has all the right equipment and experience to get the job done right.
Speak Your Mind