There are many reasons why you may want to clean your roof. You can prevent leaks, extend the life of the roof, and even remove lichen and mold. For metal roofs, cleaning can remove oxidation and other damage to the surface. Cleaning also helps remove moss, mildew, and algae.
Soft wash systems
Having a soft wash system for your roof is a safer alternative to a traditional pressure washer. This method uses a mix of mild surfactants to get rid of dirt, algae, and other stains.
Soft washing chemicals do not damage shingles, siding, or landscaping. They also help prevent rot, mold, and other health hazards.
A professional contractor can recommend a soft washing system for your home. The best option depends on the size of your roof, the frequency you clean it, and the materials it is made of.
You can find a variety of soft washing systems at several retailers. A company that specializes in this cleaning process is Purple Rhino’s SoftWash Systems Ltd. It is a professional group that has gone through a series of training programs.
Sodium hydroxide (lye) products
Sodium hydroxide (lye) products for roof cleaner are an effective way to remove mildew, algae, and fungus on your roof. In addition to the obvious benefit of removing these unsightly stains, it’s also safe for the surrounding vegetation.
When using sodium hydroxide to clean your roof, you’ll want to use a high-pressure washer. If you don’t, you can damage your roof’s surface. Also, make sure that you have the right dilution rates for the job.
The amount of Sodium Hydroxide you apply to your roof will depend on the amount of soil you want removed. For light jobs, you’ll probably need a dilution of 3% to 6%. To ensure that you have enough solution to clean your roof, you should stock up on at least a 20-25 gallon allotment.
Percarbonate cleaners
There are many ways to clean your roof. One of the least expensive and most effective methods is by using the right chemicals. Using the right product on the right surfaces will produce a clean, sanitized roof in no time. The best part is that it will be virtually maintenance free.
The trick to using chemicals successfully is knowing what to use and when. Having a good grasp of the different materials in your roof is essential. For example, asphalt will dissolve in sodium hydroxide while wood shakes will corrode with potassium sulfate. If the latter is the problem, it’s a simple matter of adding some zinc sulfate to your spray bottle. You can also get a good cleaning for next to nothing by hiring a professional.
Hydrogen peroxide are the least aggressive cleaners
If you are looking for a roof cleaner that is effective but less aggressive, hydrogen peroxide is a good choice. It is a disinfectant that is safe to use on most surfaces. However, there are some precautions to take before you use it.
First, you should find out the concentration of the product you are purchasing. Higher concentration cleaners are typically used for commercial applications. You should also find out the type of disinfection that the product provides.
You should also learn the proper way to use the product. For example, it is not advised to leave peroxide on grout for more than a few minutes. Instead, you should use a stiff brush to scrub it off.
To avoid spills, you should ensure that the product you are buying is packed safely. Hydrogen peroxide is a reactive chemical and if it is spilled, it can be harmful. Always keep it out of reach of children and pets.
ARMA recommends not using a pressure washer on asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles can handle heavy rains, but if you use a pressure washer to clean your roof, you could damage the shingles and void your warranty. This is why the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) is recommending not using a pressure washer on your roof.
ARMA says the high pressure water stream blasted away the protective granules on your asphalt shingle roof. But it’s not the only thing that can get your roof clean. Using a low-pressure solution is just as effective.
The most obvious reason to wash your roof is to remove the moss. Moss can cause damage to your shingles and cause moisture retention in your roof deck. It’s also a source of spores that are carried by the wind.
Another important reason to clean your roof is to get rid of the algae. Algae is a surprisingly common problem in townhouses and condominium complexes. In some cases, a low-pressure wash is the only way to go.
