Cleaning your roof regularly can be an important step in extending the lifespan of your roof. It’s not just about removing moss, algae, and mold; it’s also about protecting your roof from harmful elements.
Algae growth on a shingled roof causes rot and leaks
Cleaning algae growth on a shingled roof can be a problem. The fungus can cause rot and leaks, and you can also lose a lot of money in repairs.
You can use bleach and water to clean algae off your roof. But make sure you use the right mixture of chemicals. If you use the wrong type of cleaning solutions, it can damage your shingles. Luckily, you can hire a professional roof cleaner to do the job for you.
Mold and algae can form on your roof if you live in a humid climate. In fact, these two types of fungi are more common in the humid parts of the country, like Florida. They can also occur in damp areas of your home, such as your basement.
Roof algae is caused by a combination of conditions, such as the humidity in your home and poor roof ventilation. This is why it is important to maintain your roof on a regular basis. It is also advisable to install a moss-resistant roofing system.
Pressure washing can cause premature aging and damage to your roof
Pressure washing can lead to damage to your roof, shingles, and siding. This type of cleaning may not be the best choice if you’re looking to restore the look of your home. Instead, try soft washing.
Soft washing is a process that uses low pressure rinsing to remove dirt and other debris from your roof. This method can be effective at removing moss and mold, which are two common factors that cause premature aging of your roof. However, this process can also discolor wood shakes and accelerate corrosion on metal roofing systems.
High pressure water can strip away protective granules from asphalt roofs. This can weaken the shingles, allowing moisture to accumulate, causing cracked tiles and other damage.
Another cause of premature aging is black algae. These algae spores take advantage of the moist environment found on roofs. It spreads quickly, forming black streaks that can damage your shingles.
Soft washing can accelerate corrosion of metal gutter and downspout systems
If you live in a humid environment, soft washing your gutters and downspouts can accelerate corrosion. Fortunately, there are some tips to avoid this common problem.
First, make sure your downspouts have a slight slope. This will allow water to drain properly and keep your landscaping intact. In addition, ensure that you are not overfilling your downspouts. You want to avoid a flooded downspout or a downspout that bursts.
The water flowing out of your downspouts can be harmful to plant life and other wildlife. Additionally, if your gutters are clogged with leaves, branches, and other debris, your downspouts won’t flow as well.
Getting your downspouts cleaned regularly can also improve the longevity of your gutters. This includes removing the sludge that has built up. It’s best to take advantage of a garden hose and use it to flush away all of the particles that have collected.
Signs to look for when it’s time to clean your roof
If your roof is showing signs of deterioration, it is a good idea to have it cleaned. This will help prolong the life of your roof and prevent damage from storms.
The best way to tell if your roof is in need of cleaning is to look at some of the warning signs. While some are obvious, others may not be as noticeable.
If you see black streaks on your roof, this is a sign that algae is growing on it. Algae feeds on moisture, so if your roof has lots of moisture, the algae will thrive. It will also eat away at your shingles.
Another indicator that your roof needs to be cleaned is if there are areas where the shingles are brittle. This means they may need to be replaced.
