Roof Cleaning Sarasota removes algae, mold, mildew, lichen, and moss from roofs and also cleans oxidation on metal roofs. This prevents moisture damage and extends the life of your roof.
There are many different methods of roof cleaning, ranging from chemical treatments to power washing. Each method has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Eco-friendly
When it comes to caring for our homes, many of us focus on keeping the interiors clean and tidy, but neglecting the roof is a serious mistake. A dirty roof can damage the structure of your home, reduce its value, and even pose a health risk.
Regular roof cleaning using eco-friendly methods is a great way to protect your home and the environment. The best eco-friendly products are biodegradable and will not harm the plants and wildlife that surround your property. When it comes to cleaning your roof, choose a low-pressure hose setting and use a soft-bristle brush or broom to remove loose debris. This gentle manual cleaning technique will prevent the need for high-powered pressure washers, which can cause damage to the roof surface and surrounding vegetation.
If you’re not comfortable with using a manual cleaning method, you can opt for chemical treatments that are safe for the environment. These treatments can break down organic growth and prevent future growth by targeting the root of the problem. They can also be used to treat moss, mold, and mildew, which often form on the surface of the roof.
There are a number of different types of chemicals that are used in the cleaning industry, and it’s important to research which ones will be most effective for your roof. Some are more environmentally friendly than others, so be sure to read the label carefully. For example, RoofKleen is an eco-friendly roof cleaner that is non-toxic and safe for tradespeople and plants. This product contains no bleach and is available in 20-litre containers.
Other eco-friendly roof cleaning chemicals include oxygen bleach, which releases oxygen when mixed with water to safely remove stains. This product is safe for the environment, and it’s available at most home improvement stores and online retailers. Another popular option is Spray and Forget, which is a commercial cleaning solution that has no harmful chemicals and can be purchased at Ace Hardware, True Value, and other home improvement stores.
While it may seem that eco-friendly cleaning methods cannot yield the same results as traditional chemical solutions, there is actually a very narrow gap. With the advancements in technology and creative experimentation, it’s possible to achieve very similar results without the need for harsh chemicals. Moreover, the benefits of eco-friendly cleaning practices are much greater than simply protecting the environment; they can also save homeowners money by reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
Chemical
Unlike traditional power washing practices that could damage the granular surface of asphalt shingles, chemical roof cleaning offers a fast and effective way to kill off and remove unsightly moss, algae and mildew growth. It also helps to restore your roof’s color and strength. In the long term, this will help to boost your property’s resale value and give it that fresh clean look it needs.
A professional soft wash roof cleaner will spray your roofing with a special chemical solution to kill any spores and growth that have been caused by weathering. They will use a low concentration of chlorine bleach combined with additives such as TSP, an enhancer, alcohol and surfactants. This combination is then sprayed onto your roof at a pressure that’s no higher than 100 psi. The chemicals will quickly kill off the growth and then over time, the stains will fade away.
It’s important to note that not all roofing materials can withstand a chemical treatment. The acidic chemicals used in the solution mixture can cause discoloration and deterioration of slate, concrete and wood tiles. This is why you should always consult with a home improvement specialist before deciding on a particular method.
In addition to protecting your roof, the professionals that perform this type of cleaning will ensure that any flowers and grass surrounding your house are kept safe during the process. They will water these plants before, during and after they spray the chemical solution on your roof to prevent them from drying out or dying.
Many people don’t think about the condition of their roof when it comes to property maintenance, but a dirty roof can have a big impact on the overall look of your home. Stains and streaks can detract from your curb appeal and if left untreated, can lead to roof damage. This is why it’s important to regularly have your roof cleaned with a soft wash solution. This will help to kill off the moss, algae and mildew and leave your roof looking brand new. It’s a cost-effective way to keep your property looking its best and increase its resale value.
Soft Wash
Soft wash is a cleaning method that uses low-pressure rinsing with a specialized cleaning solution to remove mold, mildew, algae, fungus, and other unwanted contaminants from the exterior of your home. It is ideal for cleaning cedar shake siding, stucco, coquina, patio furniture, enclosures, lanais, outdoor rooted plants, vinyl sidings, and screen walls. It is also a safe and eco-friendly option for removing dirt, mud, and grime from your roof and other surfaces.
A soft wash solution contains a special surfactant that helps the water penetrate and loosen the layers of clinging material. The solution can then be rinsed away with a lower-pressure hose or nozzle. This helps prevent excessive run-off, which can erode the underlying material and cause damage.
In addition to the cleaning agent, soft wash solutions contain a biodegradable degreaser that dissolves and traps grease. This helps the cleaning agent reach hard-to-reach areas that are difficult to clean with a pressure washer. It also provides a longer lasting, deeper clean than standard cleaning products.
Aside from the environmental benefits, soft washing is also a safer alternative to traditional pressure washing. It reduces the need for ladders or scaffolding and can be done from the ground. This can save you money in the long run and reduce the risk of injury. It is important to hire a reputable company that is experienced in soft washing.
The main reason for using a soft wash is to protect your roof and prolong its lifespan. A dirty roof loses its ability to reflect UV rays, which can cause shingles to fade and crack. It can also increase energy bills by allowing heat to transfer through the ceiling. A soft wash removes the toxins that cause these problems and leaves your roof with a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. It is also effective at killing harmful bacterial contamination, including the one that causes black streaks on your roof (Gloeocapsa magma). It can also kill moss and lichens and leaves behind growth-inhibiting residue. This will extend the life of your roof and protect the value of your property.
Pressure Wash
As the name suggests, this type of roof cleaning uses highly pressurized water to blast away moss, stains and dirt. While this is one of the most effective methods to remove moss, it can also damage shingles and underlying roofing materials. For this reason, it is important to use a low pressure washer when using this method.
Another downside to this method is that it uses harsh chemicals and can pollute local waterways, harming plants and wildlife. Fortunately, it can be mitigated by using a biodegradable cleaning solution that is free of chlorine and phosphates. Additionally, it is important to cover nearby landscaping with plastic sheeting to prevent the cleaning solution from harming the vegetation.
When using this technique, it is best to divide the roof into sections and clean them one section at a time. Be sure to test the cleaner on an inconspicuous part of your roof to ensure it does not damage the surface material. After applying the cleaner, scrub the surface with a soft-bristle brush or broom. Allow the product to sit for the recommended amount of time before rinsing it with a garden hose or a low-pressure setting on the pressure washer.
While this method is more environmentally friendly than other options, it is not as effective at removing moss and algae. Additionally, it can damage the surface of a roof by dislodging granules and weakening the adhesive on shingles. For this reason, it is important to only use this method on flat roofs that are not covered with shingles or tiles.
When cleaning a roof, it is important to do so in small sections and work from the bottom to the top to keep soapy water running downward. It is also important to avoid walking on the roof. Doing so can dislodge shingles, which can lead to leaks and damage the surface of your home. Finally, it is important to inspect the roof after cleaning to determine if any areas need repair. Regular cleaning of your roof can help protect your investment and extend its lifespan.
