If you are planning to get your roof shingles washed, there are several things you will have to consider. First, you will want to check with your local building codes. Also, you will need to be aware of the types of shingle you have on your roof. You can either have asphalt shingles or clay roofing tiles.
Asphalt shingles
Power washing asphalt shingles is a good idea in some circumstances, but in others it can accelerate deterioration. Not only does it damage the surface of the shingle, but the jets of water can strip away the protective mineral granules.
When you’re trying to clean a roof, it’s a good idea to use a low-pressure method rather than high pressure. This will help disperse organisms and other debris. You can also use a leaf blower to clear off any loose debris on your roof.
If you have algae on your roof, a cleaning process is necessary. Algae feeds on calcium carbonate, and can cause premature aging of your shingles. It can also make your roof more susceptible to rot. The good news is that if you take the right precautions, you can prevent this problem from occurring.
Clay roofing tiles
Clay roofing tiles offer many advantages to homeowners. They are fire-resistant, durable and easy to maintain. With its low maintenance, clay tiles can last up to 50 years.
Clay roofs are designed to be able to withstand strong wind and rain. This makes them especially suited to areas with hurricane-prone climates.
Tiles should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year. The tiles are also impervious to insect damage. Keeping them clean helps to protect the roof from dirt, algae, and mold. These stains can build up over time, leaving a dingy look to the tile.
Clay tiles are available in a variety of colors. Many manufacturers offer standard colors, but they can also produce custom-colors.
When installing clay tiles, it is essential to properly overlap each tile. If not, a section of the roof could slip and cause serious damage. A professional roofing contractor can help you with this.
Moss
If your home has a roof, chances are you have seen moss growing on it. Moss is not just unsightly, it can also damage your house. It can cause leaks, clog your gutters, and deteriorate the structural integrity of your roof.
Luckily, there are ways to prevent moss from taking over your roof. One of the best solutions is to install zinc or copper strips. These strips attach to your roof and leach out zinc particles that can inhibit moss growth. However, it is important to remember that these will take time to work and won’t stop your current moss problem.
Another option is to use a chemical solution to remove moss. This solution is not as dangerous as you might think. You can purchase a spray cleaner or mix your own. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of bleach and water.
Symptoms of an infestation
Inspecting your roof for damage and symptoms of an infestation is a great way to keep your home safe. It’s also a simple and inexpensive way to protect your investment.
If you see black streaks or other dark areas on your shingles, it’s a sign of an algae infestation. Algae and moss can eat away at your shingles and cause premature degrading. Your shingles may start crumbling and become blown off the roof, leading to water leaks.
Mold and other contaminants can also affect your shingles. These can lead to structural damage, and may even spread to other parts of your home. The good news is that you can remove these from your shingles easily.
If your shingle roof is infested with algae or mold, it’s important to take steps to ensure that it isn’t left untreated. This can lead to a significant reduction in the life of your roofing investment.
Getting rid of black stains
Getting rid of black stains when power washing roof shingles can be difficult. They are often caused by algae, which settles on the roof. There are several methods of cleaning them off. The first and most common is to use a mixture of water and bleach. However, you may want to use a solution that is less harsh to the environment.
Algae feeds on the minerals in the roof shingles. This can lead to the growth of lichen, which can be harder to remove than algae alone. In addition, it can mix with fungus. Keeping your roof clean can help prevent algae from settling in the first place.
A good solution for cleaning off the algae on your roof is a 50 percent solution of water and bleach. Apply the solution to the roof, then rinse it with a regular garden hose. It should be left on the roof for about 20 minutes.
