Power washing a roof can be a big job. There are some tips that you can use to avoid making mistakes and getting the results you want.
Soft wash vs pressure wash
When power washing a roof, a soft wash is recommended for many reasons. While pressure washing can remove dirt and algae, it can also damage delicate surfaces. Soft washes, on the other hand, are softer and more effective. Having your roof cleaned every three to four years can improve your home’s overall appearance, while also reducing the risk of water leaks and flooding.
Pressure washing uses high-pressure streams of water. These streams break down tough build-ups and clean off stains and dirt. But, when the shingles on a roof begin to deteriorate, the pressure may knock them off and cause water to leak.
However, even if the shingles are intact, your home can be damaged by the pressure of the water. Also, pressure washing can damage asphalt shingles, and can strip paint from your home. For this reason, it is a good idea to leave this type of cleaning to professionals.
On the other hand, soft washes use a low-pressure technique. This method combines detergent-based cleaners with specialized chemicals to remove grime. It also uses a jet of water to clean. The jet is slightly less powerful than the pressure used for pressure washing, which makes it safer to use on many surfaces.
Soft washing is especially useful for siding, roofing, and masonry. Since it combines gentle water with specialized cleaning solutions, it can clean these delicate surfaces better than pressure washing. In fact, it is often recommended for cleaning wood panel siding, stucco, lanais, and other materials that can be damaged by pressure washing.
Mistakes to avoid
When it comes to power washing your roof, you want to be careful not to damage it. It is an expensive undertaking and mistakes can cost you money and time. There are several tricks to the trade.
For starters, you need to get the proper safety gear. You also need to make sure you use the right chemical mix. The best ones are mild. If you aren’t sure, you can call in a professional.
You will also want to make sure you wear a safety harness and protective eyewear. Also, it might be a good idea to invest in a fall-safe harness, as you will be doing a lot of walking. Make sure to also get a garden hose to rinse away the residue.
As a rule of thumb, the best way to clean a roof is to hire a professional. This will save you the hassle of doing the wrong thing. Plus, you will be in a better mood. Not to mention, you will have more time to do the things you actually enjoy.
In addition, you can do the job yourself. However, if you have a large roof, you may want to consider hiring a professional. One reason is that you could easily end up damaging your property and yourself. They also have the tools and the know how to ensure the job is done right.
Cost of a new vs old roof
The cost to power wash your roof can be a bummer. This is why it is important to know the cost to get the job done right the first time around. A reputable company will be happy to explain all the nitty gritty details for a fee. Having a professional tack the roof off with a quality epoxy is a far better proposition than a tepid sloppy job. In this respect the old adage holds true. Having the roof redone by a quality contractor will give you peace of mind for years to come. After all, it is your home after all. The best part is that your house will be the envy of your neighbors. Besides, you’ll have one less dirty roof – a definite perk. Lastly, you’ll be one step closer to a shiny new roof that you can actually stand on! To top it off, you’ll have no worries when it comes to repairing the aforementioned epoxy!
