The roof is one of the most important parts of your home because it protects you from the elements. Over time, dirt, grime and moss build up and can cause damage to the roof structure and interior of your house.
Cleaning your roof can help prolong its lifespan. It also reduces mold exposure and pest infestation. The best way to clean your roof is to use a gentle cleaning solution. Contact Roof Cleaning Summerville SC now!
Debris removal is an important part of roof cleaning. Any debris that is left on the roof can damage it or impede its ability to protect your home from the elements. This debris can include anything from fallen leaves and branches to construction materials and pests. Debris that is left on the roof can also cause water damage if it starts to collect or pool. Debris can also block gutters and prevent rainwater from draining properly. This can lead to rot and leaks. Debris can also obstruct skylights, chimneys, and other roofing features.
Debris can be removed by hand or with a blower. If you are removing it yourself, be sure to wear a pair of sturdy shoes and use a ladder that is secure. If you are not comfortable working at heights, it is best to hire a professional to remove debris from your roof.
A leaf blower is the most effective tool for removing debris from the roof. It can get to places that are difficult to reach with a broom and can avoid damaging the roof. When using the blower, be careful not to aim it at any vulnerable parts of the roof or any openings like skylights.
The next step is to wash the debris off the roof with a cleaning solution. The cleaning solution can be mild dish soap, a detergent, or even vinegar. If you are using a chemical cleaner, it is important to use a low-pressure spray so that you don’t damage the roof.
Once the debris is clean, it is important to inspect the roof for damage. A professional can help you determine whether the roof needs to be repaired or replaced. They can also give you advice on how to maintain your roof and avoid future problems.
Keeping debris, trash, and other items off of the facility roof can reduce maintenance costs and keep the building in better condition. However, it is important to remember that ignoring these issues will only lead to bigger problems down the road. Debris can injure people, damage equipment, structures, surfaces, and infrastructure. This can add up to major repair and replacement costs for your business.
Cleaning Solution
If there’s a lot of loose debris on the roof, sweep it up with a medium-bristle push broom. This will make the cleaning process much easier and faster. It’ll also eliminate tripping hazards and prevent debris from being blown around by the wind.
Then, you can begin the actual roof cleaning. Choose a cleaner that is designed for the type of roof you have (asphalt shingles or cedar shakes) and the type of dirt you need to remove. For example, a cleaner intended for the removal of moss and mildew will contain a biocide that will inhibit the growth of these pesky organisms.
A good place to start is with a bleach-based solution that will kill algae and moss without damaging the shingles. Sodium hypochlorite is an effective option, as long as you mix it properly and don’t scrub the roof. It’s important to remember that these kinds of solutions are harsh, so you may need to keep the windows closed to avoid breathing in the fumes and odors.
There are a number of bleach-free cleaners that will do the same job, without the negative side effects. They contain ingredients like ammonia, copper sulfate, and trisodium phosphate, which are less damaging to the shingles. These cleaners also don’t require scrubbing, so you can spray them and leave them to work their magic. These types of cleaners are also safer for kids, pets, and the surrounding plants.
Another great option is to use an eco-friendly product, such as the Wet and Forget Moss, Mold and Mildew Stain Remover. This biodegradable product is great for a number of different issues, including mildew, lichen, and mold, and won’t damage the shingles. This cleaner also comes with a warranty, which means you can rest easy knowing that it will do the job.
You can also try the GP66 degreasing and cleaning solution, which is nontoxic and biodegradable. This product is also great for removing mildew, algae, moss, and lichen, and won’t damage the shingles. It’s worth noting, however, that it requires a bit more elbow grease than a power wash and may take longer to work its magic.
Algae Removal
The black discoloration and streaks on roofs that are often mistaken for mildew or mold actually come from a different kind of fungus: algae. Algae grow where moisture tends to dwell on the surface of the roof, such as in coastal or humid climates. The most common type of roof algae, gloeocapsa magma, creates the unsightly black streaks that many homeowners notice when looking up at their home’s exterior. The dark pigmentation that the fungus produces helps to protect it from UV rays, which would otherwise damage the shingles and the surrounding vegetation.
The good news is that algae are relatively easy to kill with a strong bleach solution. It is a good idea to use a combination of chlorine bleach and water, applied with a sprayer or garden hose. After the solution has been allowed to dwell on the roof for 15 to 20 minutes, it can be rinsed with a low-pressure stream of clean water. For those who prefer not to use chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach is also a good choice. This alternative oxidizer uses hydrogen peroxide instead of sodium hypochlorite, and it can be purchased in liquid or powder form for an eco-friendly option.
If you are considering tackling this project yourself, it is important to remember that roof algae can be slippery, and safety should be a priority at all times. Wearing a pair of thick rubber gloves, a mask and eye protection will protect your skin and lungs from the harsh chemicals that will be used. You should also wear comfortable, sturdy footwear that you can grip with your feet while on the roof.
You will also need to protect the plants and soil around your house with a protective layer of plastic sheeting. This will help to keep the chemicals and debris from contaminating your lawn and garden. A tarp should be placed on the ground under any overhanging trees to further reduce the chance of contamination.
It is a good idea to hire a professional to perform the roof cleaning. They bring expertise, specialized equipment and a depth of experience to the task that can save you time and physical effort and yield a more effective result. In addition, professionals know how to avoid damaging the shingles and the surrounding vegetation with overly aggressive methods.
Black Streak Removal
If you have a roof that’s covered in black streaks it’s likely caused by algae. This is a common sight in areas that experience warm, humid conditions. This algae is called Gloeocapsa Magma and grows on asphalt shingles. The dark color helps to shield the spores from UV rays. The stains do not damage roofing material but they do lower a home’s resale value because they are unsightly.
The good news is that black streaks on a roof can be removed easily. There are several cleaning solutions that have been found to be effective at removing the stains. However, the risk of further damaging a roof with a DIY approach is much too great to take. Professional roof cleaners will use proper technique and the right equipment to clean a roof safely and effectively.
A homeowner can also choose to schedule regular cleaning services from a reputable roofer that specializes in these types of problems. These professionals will have the tools and skills necessary to remove moss, mildew, algae and lichen from roofs as well as clean oxidation on metal roofs. This service will extend the life of a roof and protect the underlying structure of a house.
Many homeowners assume that if their roof has black streaks on it they will have to replace the entire roof. This is not always true and may only be a sign that the roof has reached the end of its lifespan. The algae and moss that thrive on roofs eat away at the limestone filler agents of shingle materials resulting in their deterioration. When a roof is not regularly cleaned this process can accelerate causing the shingles to become brittle.
Getting rid of black streaks on your roof is simple when you use the correct cleaning methods and techniques. This is not a job to undertake on your own and it’s always best to leave the dangerous tasks such as climbing atop of the roof to professionals.
A professional roof cleaning service will use a special chemical to kill off the algae and fungus. They will also apply a sealant to the roof to prevent future growth and stains. These treatments will keep the roof in good condition and help to increase the resale value of the property.
