Cleaning your roof may be an arduous task and in some cases, you may be tempted to take the easy way. However, it is necessary for you to understand that no matter what type of roof you have, whether concrete tile, clay tile, asphalt shingle, etc., you are not exempted from having algae and moss grow anywhere on your roof, especially the kind of climate that Texas has, and cleaning it improperly may put your roof in great jeopardy and shorten the life of your roof.
Can using a high-pressure washer ruin your roof?
Yes, any tool improperly used can do significant damage to your roof. Most professional pressure cleaning equipment can be regulated and what’s most important is the experience of the person behind the equipment. A good question to ask of the company quoting your roof cleaning project should be “How much experience does your people have cleaning roofs?”
Can algae and moss shorten the life of your roof?
Yes! Both algae and moss will into your roof tile and shingles. They can lift the edges of your roof up as they grow. They will loosen granules. Roof algae and moss can start to grow on a brand new roof in as little as a year if the conditions are right. Algae and moss also attract unwanted birds, animals, and insects that use this algae and moss for nesting materials. Birds will peck at the roof material to remove the algae and moss. This can cause holes in a composition roof usually at the peaks which can lead to water damage inside your property.
Why do roofs need to be cleaned now? This not used to be the case years ago.
The main differences are the quality of manufacturing materials have changed. Today, there is more calcium based limestone and fillers in roof system products and algae and moss (Gloeocapsa magma), feed on these calcium-based additives. Whenever you see those black streaks growing on your roof, it is typically algae and moss that are you seeing.
How would I know if during the cleaning process if my roof was damaged?
Only work with an experienced and reputable roofing contractor who knows how to walk on your roof and make any remedial repairs during the cleaning and treatment of your roof. Roof cleaning is a delicate process and needs to be done by someone who understands roofing and who can recognize a problem and make the required corrections.
Is Chlorine a good product to use?
While Chlorine initially gets rid of the mold, algae, and mildew, it leaves behind a residue which becomes fertilizer for the next colony to grow. As a result, repeated cleaning with chlorine is needed every 6 to 12 months, which will take years away from your roof and cost you more money. Chlorine can also damage or kill your landscape from the water spray and runoff as a result of the cleaning process.
The Texas sun and heavy rains are already hard enough on an average roof, but with the addition of repeated cleanings of the roof tiles and shingles will start these products to fade and lose their finish. Tiles and shingles can also shift, slip or break. Chlorine also corrodes the metal parts of your roof. As the factors take a toll on your roof, there is a much greater chance that major problems will develop.
What does Affluent Exteriors recommend?
We work with a roof cleaning and stain preventative treatment process that is EPA-friendly made specifically for use on roofing surfaces. Keep in mind, the safest and smartest way to clean your roof is to contact a qualified roofing contractor who understands roofing and specializes in roof cleaning and treatment process along with a roof maintenance program. At Affluent Exteriors, we are able to properly assess your particular situation and offer suggestions that will give you the results you want.
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