Roof Cleaning - All You Need To Know.

Three Roof Cleaning Methods: Stained by algae or not, roofs are cleaned using any of three common methods, each of which has its own set of pros and cons. These methods are, pressure washing , and the application of solutions containing either, chlorine bleach or sodium hydroxide. When correctly and only once, these techniques clean roofs effectively without significant adverse effects. The problem is, they usually have to be repeated every six to 18 months to maintain cleanliness.

Chlorine Bleach Solution Washes: Compared with the other two roof cleaning methods, chlorine bleach solution washing involves less rinsing. This makes the process of cleaning a roof relatively shorter. Because the roof is cleaned fast, it becomes less vulnerable to wear and tear. Chlorine, however, is toxic to plants and to some individuals. Thus, if you go with this roof cleaning method, make sure that you take the necessary precautions of carrying out this task. Chlorine bleach cleaning is suitable to asphalt shingle roofs.

Sodium Hydroxide-based Cleaning: Sodium hydroxide-based cleaners are very effective degreasers, but they require a lot more rinsing than chlorine solutions. As a result, using this type of cleaning agent can be time-consuming and carries with it greater risk for causing damage to the roof. And, while only 100 psi of force is needed to rinse away a sodium hydroxide-based compound on an asphalt shingle roof, some amount of asphalt granule loss is to be expected still. Even if advertisements would have us believe otherwise, sodium hydroxide can be toxic too, and should be kept from coming into contact with persons and property, and especially plants in the surrounding landscape. It is also caustic, so high levels of this compound may cause irreversible damage to roofs, especially those made of asphalt shingles.

Pressure Washing: If you have a concrete, barrel tile or metal roof, you can clean it by power washing. Power washing does not involve the use of chemicals, which makes power washing an environment-friendly method of roof cleaning. However, power washing is rather time consuming and can put more strain on the roof. If you have coated roof tiles, the thin layer of coloring can be easily washed away by power washing. If you have a concrete roof, power washing will bring out the concrete's natural gray color, and this could mean that you will have to paint or stain the roof afterwards.

Contracting a Pressure Washer to Clean Your Roof

If you are looking for a quick and thorough way to clean your house's exterior and roof, consider pressure washing. Pressure washing is best left in the hands of a professional. However, a pressure washing job done incorrectly or by an unqalified pressure washing contractor can cause damage to your home's roof or property. The damage can be costly.

Outlined below are ideas to guide you in your search for a quality pressure washing contractor to clean your roof. Additional advice is provided as well on how to deal with the contractor of your choice when the cleaning work is in progress, and when it is completed. This can also be applied to Deck Restoration .

1. Equip yourself with a clear understanding of the risks involved in pressure washing and roof cleaning. Know how to minimize these risks. Taking the time to educate yourself thus will enable you to distinguish between the mediocre outworker from the quality contractor.

2. Make an Appointment with the roof cleaning contractor. Have the contractor examine the property in your presence. This way, you and the contractor are on the same page.

3. Consult. A sound pressure washing contractor will welcome the opportunity to examine your roof, ask questions and note any potential areas of concern. These contractors will pay attention to your needs and decide what type of roof cleaning service you need and expect. In addition, they will also go over with you the advantages and limitations of the service that they provide. As you meet with different contractors, be sure to question them on the specifications of the service, exact procedures, outcome and potential for damage. You will then be able to get a clearer picture of the service and decide which contractor to award the job.

4. Request for an outline of the roof cleaning procedure. This summary of work steps that may come with the estimate or as a separate sheet should prove to be a helpful tool for comparing the different pressure washing services you consult with.

5. Question Equipment Status. Does the pressure washing contractor own the equipment or are they rented? Contractors that either own or lease their equipment are typically more reliable and committed to their pressure washing business. Contractors who rent equipment may be an indication that they are not as reliable.

These tips will help you understand many of the issues involved with pressure washing and roof cleaning. Arm yourself with this information and your next project should go smoothly.

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