Roof Washing: What is it and how does it work?
Roof washing is essential to the longevity of your home in our part of the country. Here is how to do it the right way with the best results.
Softwashing vs. Pressure Washing: What’s the difference?
Both techniques can be very effective for cleaning. The key differences for our purposes are when to use them and on which parts of your property.
Pressure Washing:
Pressure washing, also known as power washing, is a cleaning method that utilizes high-pressure water spray to remove dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and other unwanted substances from surfaces. This technique is highly effective for cleaning a variety of surfaces, including concrete, brick, wood, and metal. The pressure washer delivers water at a much higher pressure than a regular garden hose, typically ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 pounds per square inch (psi), depending on the equipment used.
Pressure washing is commonly employed for outdoor cleaning tasks such as washing driveways, sidewalks, decks, patios, and siding. It’s also utilized in commercial settings for cleaning parking lots, storefronts, and building exteriors.
Softwashing:
Soft washing is a cleaning method similar to pressure washing, but involves using low-pressure water spray (under 200 psi) along with specialized cleaning solutions to remove dirt, grime, algae, mold, and other contaminants from surfaces. Unlike pressure washing, which relies solely on high-pressure water, soft washing utilizes gentle, low-pressure techniques to avoid damaging delicate surfaces such as roofs, siding, and painted surfaces.
The cleaning solutions used in soft washing are often environmentally friendly and biodegradable, effectively breaking down and removing organic matter without causing harm to the surrounding environment. The most common cleaning chemical used is sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and is often mixed with various surfactants, (soaps) such as lauramine oxide. Note that the combination of certain chemicals can be toxic. Careful research and often professional help is recommended when creating a cleaning solution. Soft washing is commonly used for cleaning exterior surfaces of residential and commercial buildings, including roofs, siding, fences, and decks.
Softwashing is the Clear Winner for Roof Washing
Our preferred method of roof cleaning, softwashing using sodium hypochlorite (bleach) is what roof manufactures recommend for treating organic growth on your roof. Here’s a helpful video explaining how it works – All You Need To Know About Using Bleach To Clean A Roof
Gentle cleaning
Soft washing uses low-pressure techniques, preventing damage to delicate roof materials like shingles or tiles.
Effective algae and mold removal
Soft washing solutions effectively eradicate algae, mold, mildew, and other organic contaminants, improving the roof’s appearance and longevity.
Long Lasting Results
Soft washing penetrates deep into the roof surface, ensuring thorough cleaning and preventing the quick return of algae and mold growth.
Preservation of Roof Integrity
The whole point of cleaning your roof is to protect it and make it look nice, right? Unlike high-pressure methods, soft washing doesn’t risk damaging the protective layers of the roof, preserving its structural integrity. Removing algae and mold helps prevent premature roof deterioration, extending its lifespan and appearance.
Improved Curb Appeal
A clean roof enhances the overall appearance of a property, boosting curb appeal and potentially increasing its value.
Cost Effectiveness
Soft washing is significantly more affordable than roof replacement, or repair. Regular cleaning costs less than premature replacement.
Should I clean my own roof?
Check out this article to see that cleaning your own roof is very possible for the average, able-bodied homeowner. However, roof cleaning can be dangerous and if done improperly, may cause more damage than good. If you decide the risk is not worth trying yourself, please reach out to us for a free quote. We can make sure your roof is cleaned properly and keep you on the ground where it’s safe!
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover answers to frequently asked questions about our roof washing services.
How often should I have my roof washed?
Regular roof cleaning is recommended every 1-2 years to prevent the buildup of debris, moss, algae, and other contaminants that can damage your roof over time. However, certain factors such as the surrounding environment and weather conditions may influence how frequently you need to clean your roof.
What are the benefits of hiring a professional?
Professional roof cleaning offers numerous benefits, including enhancing the curb appeal of your home, preventing potential structural damage caused by debris accumulation, extending the lifespan of your roof, improving energy efficiency by reducing heat absorption through a clean surface, and maintaining a healthy environment free from mold and algae growth.
Will cleaning my roof help extend it’s lifespan?
Yes, regular roof cleaning can significantly extend the lifespan of your roof by removing harmful substances like moss, algae, lichen, and debris that can deteriorate roofing materials and cause granule loss over time. By keeping your roof clean and well-maintained, you can avoid costly repairs or premature replacement.
Is roof cleaning safe for all types of roofing materials?
Professional roof cleaners use specialized techniques and eco-friendly solutions tailored to different roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, metal roofs, tile roofs, and more. They ensure that the cleaning process is gentle yet effective to protect the integrity of your specific type of roofing material without causing any damage.
At Evergreen Pro Clean, we use the soft wash method for moss removal. We start by gently removing any loose moss by hand with a brush. Next, we apply a sodium hypochlorite solution to kill any remaining moss. The dead moss turns white and flakes off with the rain after 4-6 weeks. Not only is it safer for your roof’s lifespan than other methods, but it results in a much more thorough cleaning.
Can cleaning my roof prevent mold and algae growth?
Yes! Regular roof cleaning helps prevent mold and algae growth on your roof by removing organic matter that provides a breeding ground for these harmful microorganisms. By keeping your roof clean and free from moisture-trapping debris, you can minimize the risk of mold infestations and maintain a healthy environment for both your family and your home’s structure.
Contact us today for a free quote
Let’s work together to safeguard your home and shape a brighter future for your living environment.