Sarasota Roof Cleaning involves removing algae, mold, mildew, lichen, and moss from roofs and cleaning oxidation on metal roofs. This process can protect your home from bacterial growth and extend the lifespan of your roof. It can also increase your home value and prevent costly repairs.
Aside from looking unsightly, moss and algae can damage your roofing materials. They can also interfere with your roof’s ability to reflect sunlight and increase energy bills.
Debris removal is an important part of roof cleaning. A debris build-up can lead to several problems, including clogged gutters and water damage. It also poses a tripping hazard for people working on the roof and can damage landscaping or garden beds close to the house.
The first step in the debris removal process is to remove all loose material from the roof surface. This can be done with a leaf blower, which is ideal for reaching areas that are hard to reach from a ladder, or by hand using a soft-bristle brush. It is important not to point the blower towards the shingles, as this can cause them to become damaged or to break off completely. During this phase, it is also a good idea to look for any shingle damage that might need to be fixed by a professional roofing service.
Large debris like branches, leaves, and pine needles often fall on roofs during storms, leading to a build-up that can impede drainage and promote mold growth. Accumulated debris can also clog downspouts and eavestroughs, resulting in water damage to the interior of the home. Other types of debris include patches of moss and algae, which retain moisture on the surface of the roof, causing shingles to become brittle and deteriorate.
Another common type of roof debris is trash that can be blown onto the roof from nearby streets or buildings. This can cause unsightly stains, and may be filled with pests or other harmful substances that can damage the roof.
If a roof is stained, a physical scrub with a push broom and a hose can sometimes be enough to remove the stain. If the stain is particularly heavy or has been there for a long time, a more intensive scrub may be required. It is recommended to use a soft broom and wear protective gloves when removing junk and debris from the roof.
If a roof is heavily infested with moss and algae, the best option is to kill the organisms with a solution of bleach and water. Chlorine bleach, the kind used to whiten laundry or scrub toilets, is the safest and most effective product for this purpose. The ARMA recommends using a solution of 1:1 chlorine bleach to water to clean the roof.
Preparation
A thorough roof inspection is an important first step in any restoration project. Not only can it reveal areas in need of structural repair, but it can also highlight any underlying issues that are not visible from the ground such as leaks or mildew. The condition of a home’s roof is also an important factor when determining how often it should be cleaned.
Efficient debris removal is a critical part of the preparation process, as it improves cleaning efficiency and helps ensure quality results. It is especially important to remove any moss or algae growth on the surface of the roof. These organisms can cause abrasions on the roof surface, and if left unchecked, may lead to shingle damage and premature deterioration of roofing materials.
It is also important to prepare the roof for washing by removing any large branches or debris that could fall onto the roof during the cleaning process. In addition, it is important to take precautions around landscaping and garden beds, as the chlorine bleach used in the washing solution can contaminate soil and plants.
The roof cleaning process is most effective during a dry season. Rain or damp weather can hamper the effectiveness of cleaning solutions, and make slippery surfaces hazardous for workers. Additionally, rain can carry dirt and debris from the roof surface into the gutters, clogging them and potentially leading to water damage inside the home.
During the cleaning process, it is important to use proper technique when using a pressure washer. This includes ensuring that the nozzle is set at the correct pressure and angle to achieve optimal results without damaging the surface of the roof. Additionally, it is important to rinse off the surface after each wash to ensure that detergent and bacteria are not being carried into the home’s interior.
While many homeowners choose to clean their own roofs, it is generally best to leave this type of work to professionals. Not only do they have the experience and equipment to safely complete the job, but they can also help you determine if your roof needs repair or replacement. Additionally, professional cleaners are skilled in navigating tricky spaces on a home’s roof, and can spot problems that may not be apparent from the ground.
Safety
As the defender of your home from outdoor elements, it’s important to keep your roof clean and free from harmful growths like moss and mildew. Regular cleaning can extend the life of your roof, making it last longer and protect you and your family from harmful mold spores that are released into the air when these growths are disturbed.
Achieving a clean, healthy roof can also improve your home’s value. A dirty looking roof is a major turnoff for potential buyers and can decrease the sale price of your home. A thorough roof cleaning helps to remove stains, dirt and grime, and can reveal areas in need of repair or replacement.
It’s important to take proper safety measures when tackling a roof cleaning project yourself or hiring professionals. For example, choose a ladder that’s sturdy and properly secured to the structure of your home. Avoid climbing on the roof itself when possible, as this increases the risk of slips or falls. Ensure that the cleaning solution you’re using is safe for your roofing material and doesn’t contain harsh chemicals. If you’re applying the cleaner yourself, read the instructions and follow them carefully.
Once the cleaning process is complete, it’s important to inspect the entire roof for missed spots and any damage or repairs that need to be made. It’s a good idea to wear protective clothing during the inspection, including gloves and eye protection to prevent contact with chemicals or dust particles. For added comfort, opt for loose, breathable fabrics and a hat to shield your skin from sun exposure.
Some professional roof cleaning services offer environmentally friendly and low-pressure cleaning methods. These alternatives to traditional power washing use natural or biodegradable cleaning products that are safer for your roofing and the environment. This type of cleaning is especially beneficial for homes with mature landscaping or in wooded areas, where chlorine bleach and other harsh chemical solutions can cause damage to vegetation and soil. This cleaning method also avoids the need for water runoff recovery systems, which could pollute surrounding waters and ecosystems.
Chemicals
Chemical cleaning roof techniques use a low concentration of bleaching agents and surfactants to remove organic growth like moss, algae, and lichen. The resulting clean surface helps prevent the regrowth of these types of growth and keeps roofing materials strong. This is far superior to mechanical cleaning methods, such as power washing and brushing, which can damage granular surface material and void any manufacturer warranties.
Many cleaning contractors that specialize in soft washing choose to use a chemical called sodium percarbonate to clean asphalt shingle and wood shake roofs. This product doesn’t need to be rinsed off, as it becomes inactive once it comes into contact with water. It also has natural properties that make it an excellent choice for the environment. It is important to carefully follow the specific instructions for preparing and applying this product, as using it in the wrong concentration can weaken the shingles.
Another commonly used chemical in soft wash roof cleaning is hydrogen peroxide. This is a powerful degreaser that is safe for roofs when mixed with water and a surfactant, such as soap, detergent, or lanolin oil. It is very effective at breaking down and killing fungus, and it is readily available.
Sodium hypochlorite is also a common ingredient in soft wash cleaners, and it has the added benefit of being a highly effective disinfectant. However, it is very caustic and can damage shingles if used in the wrong concentration. It is often mixed with a surfactant to reduce its alkaline properties and make it safer to apply.
One final chemical to consider in the preparation and application of soft wash cleaners is calcium chloride. It is a white powder that behaves somewhat similarly to sodium hypochlorite in soft washing mixtures, but it has the advantage of being easy to transport and handle.
A professional soft wash roof cleaning process can help extend the life of your roof and enhance its curb appeal. The best contractors will take care to protect surrounding greenery, use proper safety equipment, and understand how to prepare and apply the appropriate chemicals.