While technological advances have made asphalt shingles less prone to moss, mildew, and algae growth, a dirty-looking roof still takes away from the curb appeal of any home. Roof cleaning removes the build-up and helps extend the lifespan of your roof. Contact Sarasota Roof Cleaning now!
Never attempt a DIY roof cleaning unless you are comfortable working at heights, have a spotter and are equipped with proper ladder safety equipment. Falls from a roof are extremely dangerous and can result in death or serious injury.
While it is commonly assumed that eco-friendly roof cleaning cannot yield the same kinds of results as chemical cleaning methods, this simply is not true. Through innovation and creative experimentation, many different products have been developed that are able to clean roofs effectively without the use of chemicals.
If you are looking for a product that will remove mildew and fungus from your roof, you may want to consider a non-toxic option such as oxygen bleach. Oxygen bleach, which is available as a household cleaner under the brand name Wash-Safe, is an environmentally friendly product that can be used on most types of roofing materials. This product works by changing the molecular structure of organic stains, such as those caused by mildew and fungus, to reduce their ability to absorb visible light.
When you use this product, it will not only eliminate the existing stains but also prevent them from returning in the future by creating a barrier that keeps these stains from penetrating the surface of your roof. This is a great way to ensure that you are removing all of the staining from your roof and not just the surface layer.
Another benefit of using an eco-friendly roof cleaner is that it will not contaminate the surrounding environment or void any warranties on your home or garden structures. This is important because any runoff from your roof will eventually make its way into the local ecosystem. This can have a negative impact on wildlife and plants.
In addition to the environmental benefits of using an eco-friendly roof cleaning product, it can also help you save money. Many homeowners are able to save significant amounts of money on their roof cleaning costs when they switch from traditional chemical products to an eco-friendly product. The main reason for this is that most of these products are able to provide similar results to their chemical counterparts, but they do so without the high price tag. Many of these products are also more affordable because they do not require the use of a power washer to be effective.
Bleach is a popular roof cleaning chemical that removes black streaks and other stains. It is also effective at dissolving mildew and mold. However, it may corrode or damage asphalt shingles and other roofing materials over time. This can lead to premature ageing and the need for costly repairs or a full roof replacement.
It is best to use a bleach solution on a cloudy day when wind and rain are not blowing. This will prevent the solution from drying out too quickly and limiting its cleaning effects. Also, be sure to wear rubber gloves and safety glasses when applying the solution to protect your skin and eyes from the chemicals.
A strong dilution of household bleach is usually sufficient to clean roof shingles and other roofing materials. It is generally recommended that a mixture of one gallon water and one quart of bleach is used for this purpose. Some property owners prefer to add a cup of laundry detergent to this mixture for improved performance. If you choose to add detergent, it is important that the material is not phosphate-based, as this can cause discoloration and deterioration of roof shingles and other roofing materials.
Other stronger solutions, such as sodium hypochlorite (pool chlorine), are also available for roof cleaning. This is often used by professional pressure washing companies. However, this product comes with some significant problems of its own, such as leaving a white haze on the roof that is difficult to rinse away.
The runoff from a high concentration of sodium hypochlorite can also harm the environment. This chemical can contaminate soil, damage plants and pollute water sources, affecting animals and other living things. Opting for alternative, eco-friendly roof cleaners will help minimise these negative environmental effects. This is a particularly important consideration for properties in tropical regions or those with a history of repeated mildew and mold issues. For these reasons, it is advisable to hire professional roof cleaners instead of trying to tackle the task yourself using a bleach-based solution. These professionals will have the expertise and equipment necessary to safely and effectively clean your roof.
The chemicals used in these products can kill organisms like moss, mildew and algae that thrive in the microscopic pores of different roofing materials. They can also clean a roof that has been stained by rust, oil and a variety of other substances. Because these chemical cleaners don’t require high pressure, the strength and finish of a roof are preserved during the cleaning process. In addition, the chemicals don’t create the toxic fumes that can drift block away and expose your neighbors.
The most important thing to consider when shopping for a chemical roof cleaner is how well it works at removing stubborn stains and discolorations from the surface of your roof. You can find products with a budget-friendly price tag, eco-friendly formulas and heavy-duty cleaners for tougher stains. Another consideration is how easy it is to use. Some cleaners come in spray bottles that attach to a hose, making them ideal for smaller roofs. Others are available in concentrated form that you mix with water. Finally, you’ll want to make sure that the product you choose is safe for children, plants and any other wildlife that may roam your property.
Some people are concerned that these cleaners will damage their landscaping and flowers, but if they’re used at the proper dilution, there shouldn’t be any issues. Professionals who specialize in soft wash roof cleaning know the importance of preventing plant damage, and they’ll take care to spray only the areas where they need to.
If you’re thinking of selling your home, a dirty roof can detract from its resale value. If you invest in a quality chemical roof cleaner, however, you can remove ugly stains and have your home look good as new. It’s one of the best ways to increase your home’s resale value and give buyers a positive impression.
Using a high-quality chemical roof cleaner is the most effective way to get rid of fungi and algae that can damage your roof and deteriorate its structure. It’s also safer for your family and pets than bleach and other harsh cleaners.
The roof is the first line of defense for your home, protecting it from harmful heat, wind, rain, and snow. Keeping it clean is essential for your home’s protection, as well as its aesthetic appeal. Unfortunately, many homeowners put “roof cleaning” at the bottom of their home maintenance checklists, leading to an unsightly appearance and expensive repairs down the road.
There are a variety of roof cleaning chemicals on the market, but most contain bleach, one of the most toxic and dangerous substances in the world. Bleach vapors can cause respiratory problems and even death when inhaled, as well as damage plants from overspray or runoff into them. It can also damage shingles, tiles, and other roofing materials and stain siding. Bleach also eats away at the fabric of vinyl or acrylic awnings, causing them to crack and tear.
Some beach-based cleaners use other harsh chemicals, including ammonia, copper sulfate, and trisodium phosphate, to remove the stains and molds that grow on roofs. These formulas are a bit harsher than bleach-based cleaners, but they do not have the same deadly effects. They are less likely to wreak havoc on your landscaping, although they may still be a bit harsh on fabrics or vinyl awnings.
Another option is a non-toxic, safe roof treatment designed to prevent algae, mildew, and moss growth and black stains on your roof. Best Roofing uses Roof-A-Cide, an EPA-approved algaecide/fungicide that is guaranteed to prevent stains for at least two years.
The most common signs that your roof needs cleaning are piles of leaves, twigs, and other organic debris that block gutters and trap water on the surface of the roof. Other indications include moss, lichen, and ugly black streaks from the growth of blue-green algae on the surface of the roof. In most cases, if you neglect to clean your roof regularly, you will eventually need expensive repair work or even a replacement. By contacting a qualified roofing contractor who has a roof cleaning division, you can rest assured that your roof will be cleaned and maintained safely without damaging the landscaping or the structure of your home.