If you’ve ever had to replace a roof, you know it’s a nightmare for estimators, contractors, builders, and insurance companies, requiring lots of time and money. Regular pressure washing and roof cleaning are a vital part of a roof maintenance plan and will save you lots of cash and headaches. Algae cause the black streaks on your roof. Algae feed on the limestone filler used to give weight to the shingles. Over time, the filler is eaten away & the granules protecting the surface lose their hold & begin to wash off. The roof then loses the ability to reflect heat rays. The increased heat leads to shortened shingle life and increased heat in your attic. IRS depreciation schedules estimate the average life of a residential roof at 27.5 years, but Florida roofs tend to age in dog years.
A build-up of moss, mildew, animal droppings, and algae can eat away at your shingles and damage your roof. Clay tile, asphalt shingles, and metal roofing require special care and specialized cleaning techniques. But did you know the psi (pounds per square inch) power of regular pressure washing can cause as much damage to your delicate shingles and tiles as a hurricane?
Your roof plays a critical role in your home’s structural stability and aesthetic. Some ways to wash it are more common than others. Does choosing between low-pressure and no-pressure roof cleaning matter? Absolutely.
Most roof manufacturers will void your roof’s warranty if you have it cleaned by any method other than soft washing. Soft washing is the only technique recommended by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA).
Low-pressure roof cleaning uses a pressure washer with moderate psi to scrub rooftops. A typical power washer blasts water between 1,300 and 2,800 psi. But low-pressure washing techniques use less than 1,000 psi.
On the other hand, no-pressure roof cleaning (chemical washing) allows technicians to clean a roof without applying high pressure. A company uses chemical solution mixes to extract dirt, mold, and debris from shingles and tiles. Instead of washing detergent, it typically uses more effective chemicals or solution mixtures to provide immediately visible results, and can last for a long time. Depending on the roof size, the entire process takes less than an hour to complete.
However, the chemicals used in no-pressure roof cleaning techniques can be too abrasive for specific roofing materials. Therefore, it’s best to double-check the solution won’t damage your tiles before choosing this cleaning approach.
Soft washing utilizes specially formulated cleaning solutions designed to give your roof a thorough cleaning without posing a threat to your home’s surrounding plant or animal life, and won’t leave you with a harsh chemical residue after the fact. Choosing what technique and service are the best for you will depend on:
• The size of your roof
• The severity of your roof’s stains
• The time of the year (higher demand leads to more expensive rates)
• Your roofing material (certain types of shingles may require specialized techniques)
• Your location
