Roof Cleaning Charleston SC may be low on the homeowner’s to-do list, but it should be done occasionally. Keeping your home’s roof clean can help it last longer and look better.
Chlorine bleach, the same kind you use in laundry or to scrub a toilet, is enough to kill off moss and algae growth on shingles. However, the ARMA recommends against using a pressure washer.
A pressure washer uses high-powered water to blast away dirt, grime, mildew, and algae. The results are impressive and can help to prevent the buildup of these organisms that cause roof stains. The process is best left to a professional who has experience cleaning a variety of roofing materials and can adjust the washing force as needed for each type.
While this method of roof cleaning is very effective, it is not without risks. Over-pressurization can damage shingles, tiles, and even the structural integrity of your roof. A professional will know how much pressure to apply and which chemicals are safe for your particular roof material. They will also use a wide-angle nozzle to avoid spraying water directly at seams or other vulnerable areas of the roof.
In addition, a professional will be aware of which areas of the roof are inaccessible and may not need to be cleaned using the pressure washer. It is also important to use caution when cleaning around plants, as some of the chemicals used in the washing process may be harmful to them.
A more environmentally-friendly option is soft washing, or chemical cleaning. This method uses a mixture of soaps and chemicals to break down stains on the surface of your roof. The solution is then rinsed off with clean water, leaving no residue behind that can promote the growth of moss or algae.
This method is also recommended for roofs with moss or algae growth, as it can kill the organisms and stop their spread. Chlorine bleach, the same kind of bleach you would use to whiten your laundry, is a common ingredient in this mixture, which is usually diluted with water before being applied to the roof. It is important to test the solution on a small area of your roof before applying it to ensure that it does not damage or discolor it.
Regular roof cleaning can improve your property’sproperty’s aesthetic value and resale value, as well as extend its lifespan. It can also reduce the risk of a moss infestation, which can void some roof warranties and increase costs for repairs or replacement.
When cleaning a roof, the gentle action of soft washing removes dirt from the surface without damaging or loosening shingles. This is an eco-friendly method of washing that can also be used on other structures and surfaces around your home, including concrete tile, clay tiles, wood shake shingles, stucco, coquina, screen enclosures, outdoor rooted plants, vinyl sidings, and lanais.
The soft washing technique involves a higher proportion of cleaning chemicals and less water pressure than standard power washing. The solution is sprayed onto the dirt-covered roof and allowed to soak in, killing mold, mildew, bacteria, algae, moss, lichen, and other organisms. It is then rinsed off with low pressure water, protecting the other exterior surfaces of your house and minimizing the run-off that damages nearby plants.
One of the biggest advantages of soft washing is its ability to remove black streaks that form on shingles and other roofing materials. These streaks are caused by Gloeocapsa magma (algae), which can damage the shingles and allow water to seep into your home. Soft washing kills the algae and prevents it from regrowing, extending the lifespan of your roof.
It also helps your roof reflect sunlight, which lowers your cooling bills and protects the environment by reducing greenhouse gases. A clean roof is also a good investment because it can increase the value of your property, and if you are selling your home, it will attract potential buyers.
A dirty roof can affect the overall appearance of your home and make it look unkempt and neglected. Regular cleaning can extend the life of your roof and reduce the need for costly replacements. It also keeps organic growths from causing damage to the shingles and other components of your roof, which can shorten their lifespan.
Using a chemical solution, this method is able to clean moss, mildew, algae and any other unwanted blemishes from your roof, making it look fresh and vibrant. It is also an efficient way to clean your roof as it can be done quickly and without the need for any special equipment or team of labourers. Furthermore, unlike the pressure washing technique, this option does not cause any damage to your roof.
There is always a risk of overusing or mistreating chemical cleaning products, however, this can be avoided by following the manufacturer’smanufacturer’s guidelines carefully. The concentrations and usage of different cleaners can vary significantly, so it is essential to read and understand these instructions before using them. In addition, it is essential to wear protective clothing and eye protection when working with chemical solutions.
Some roof cleaning contractors use bleach in their services, even though this is not recommended for shingle roofs. Those who do often use the term ”Soft Wash” or mention sodium hypochlorite (bleach). They may also mix fragrance in with the bleach to disguise the smell, but it is important to ask them to be open about their chemicals before you agree to work with them.
When bleach is used, it has the ability to penetrate deep into shingles, which can cause them to crack and break down over time. This can result in the need for costly roof repairs, so it is best to avoid this technique if possible.
Aside from damaging shingles, bleach can also harm plants and animals that come into contact with it. This is why it is imperative to always rinse the roof and surrounding areas thoroughly after the cleaning process. It is also advisable to re-soak any plants that have been affected by runoff or overspray.
The best way to determine which roof cleaning technique is right for you is by taking a walk through your property with a professional roof cleaner. They will be able to take a closer look at what is growing on your roof, advise you of the correct application, and provide you with an estimate for the work.
As part of every roof cleaning, your professional roof cleaner should also carry out a general inspection. While this is not as in-depth as a complete roof assessment, it will help you spot any areas that may need attention and ensure that your roof is healthy and safe. The inspection can take place on the ground, from a ladder or, if possible, by going onto the roof itself. A thorough inspection includes looking at the gutter system for clogs and to see that it is functioning as intended. This is important as water can flow off the roof and cause damage to the surrounding property.
They will check the condition of the shingles or tiles, looking for cracks and missing granules on shingle roofs, splits in slate or tile roofs and rust and corrosion on metal roofs. They will also look at the wood decking, rafters and joists to make sure they are structurally sound and not showing signs of damage or rot. They will also check the attic insulation for mold growth.
If your home has a skylight, chimney, solar panel or other penetrating feature, they will inspect the conditions of these to ensure they are water tight. They will also check the flashing, which lines these holes to prevent water from leaking into the structure. This can be damaged by wind or by incorrect installation, so it is worth checking that it is up to code.
Another area to pay particular attention to is the roof valleys, which are often a source of leaks and a weak point for moss or algae buildup. Inspectors will also note the presence of any moss, lichen, or algae and the treatment required to eliminate them.
They will also inspect the fascia boards that run along the edges of the roof and the soffit board, which covers the underside of the roof overhangs. They will check both for rot and other damage, and they should be free of insect infestation. In addition, they will examine the condition of the gutters and downspouts, ensuring that they are functioning properly and that the roof drainage system is unobstructed.