While we often don’t think about it until there’s a problem, your roof is constantly working, and over time, it’s bound to get dirty. Those dark streaks, green patches, or unsightly moss aren’t just an eyesore—they can be a sign of a deeper issue that could compromise your roof’s integrity.
Before you grab a ladder and a bucket of cleaning solution, you need to understand one crucial fact: roof cleaning requires skill, precision, and an understanding of the right methods. Using the wrong approach can cause permanent damage to your shingles, void your warranty, and put your safety at risk.
At Top Builder Roofer, we’re dedicated to helping Orlando homeowners make smart, safe decisions about their roofing. This guide will walk you through the essential dos and don’ts of roof cleaning, so you can avoid dangerous and costly mistakes.
Roof Cleaning : DO Use a Soft Washing Method
If you’ve noticed dark, streaky stains on your asphalt shingles, chances are you’re looking at Gloeocapsa magma, a type of blue-green algae or bacteria. This is a common issue in humid climates like ours, and if left untreated, it can lead to moss and lichen growth. These organisms can eat away at the limestone filler in your shingles and retain moisture, which can lead to premature deterioration.
The best way to combat this is with a soft washing method. This involves a low-pressure chemical sprayer to apply a carefully formulated cleaning solution. The goal is to use the chemical solution to kill the algae, moss, and other contaminants without using a forceful spray.
The most effective and manufacturer-recommended cleaning solution for asphalt shingles is a diluted mix of chlorine bleach and water. This solution is applied gently and allowed to sit, effectively killing the living organisms. The process is gentle enough that it won’t dislodge the protective granules on your shingles, which are vital for UV protection and waterproofing.
Roof Cleaning: DON’T Use a Pressure Washer
This is the single most important rule of roof cleaning. Many homeowners are tempted to use a pressure washer to blast away stains, and while it may look effective in the short term, it’s an incredibly destructive method.
Here’s why you should never use a pressure washer on your roof:
- Granule Loss: Asphalt shingles are covered in a layer of protective granules that shield the asphalt from the sun’s UV rays. A pressure washer can easily blast these granules away, exposing the shingle and drastically shortening its lifespan.
- Physical Damage: The powerful stream of water from a pressure washer can lift shingles, force water underneath them, and even crack or break tiles. This can lead to immediate leaks and widespread water damage in your attic and home.
- Spread of Contaminants: Pressure washing doesn’t necessarily kill the algae and moss; it simply displaces it. This can cause the organisms to spread to other parts of your roof, or even to a neighbor’s roof, making the problem worse in the long run.
- Voiding Your Warranty: Nearly all roofing manufacturers explicitly state that using a pressure washer on their products will void your warranty. If you cause damage and need to file a claim, your insurance company can deny it if they determine the damage was due to improper cleaning.
Simply put, a pressure washer is a tool for concrete and decks, not for the delicate materials of your roof.
Roof Cleaning : DO Clean Your Roof Proactively
Waiting until your roof is covered in a thick layer of moss and algae before acting is a mistake. The longer these contaminants sit on your roof, the more damage they inflict.
Moss and algae thrive on moisture. They can create a miniature ecosystem on your roof that traps water, leading to:
- Wood Rot: The trapped moisture can seep into the underlying wood decking, causing it to rot.
- Permanent Stains: The dark stains from algae can become permanent, even after the algae is gone.
- Deteriorated Shingles: The growth can lift and warp shingles, making them less effective at shedding water.
By proactively scheduling a professional roof cleaning every few years, you can prevent these issues, maintain your home’s curb appeal, and extend the overall life of your roof. For homeowners looking to sell their property, a clean roof instantly boosts curb appeal and can be a major selling point.
Looking for Help Cleaning Your Roof?
Roof cleaning is a necessary chore that shouldn’t be overlooked. While the task may seem simple, the risks and potential for damage are far too great for an inexperienced homeowner to handle. Choosing the wrong method or attempting to do it yourself can lead to expensive repairs, or worse, personal injury.
At Top Builder Roofer, we offer professional, safe, and effective roof cleaning services for Orlando homeowners. Our team uses industry-approved soft washing techniques to eradicate algae, moss, and other contaminants, protecting your investment and restoring your roof’s beauty without causing damage.
Call us for a free, no-obligation commercial roof inspections. We are here to help you through every step of the process!
