A roof wash is the process of cleaning your roof to remove algae, moss, mold, mildew, lichen, and oxidation from it. The cleaning process can also prolong the life of your roof by removing algae and other environmental contaminants that can damage its function. This process is highly beneficial to both metal and non-metal roofs. Read on to learn more about the benefits and disadvantages of both. Read on to discover how to choose the best roof wash for your home.
Disadvantages of pressure washing
Before getting your roof pressure washed, consider the advantages and disadvantages. Roof pressure washing puts your home’s roof technician at risk, and it can also void your roof warranty. It can also permanently damage your roof’s shingles. Although the cosmetic benefits of roof pressure washing are great, the disadvantages of roof pressure washing far outweigh the short-term benefits. To avoid these risks, make sure your technicians tie off before they begin pressure washing. Check for worker’s compensation certificates. Make sure you tell them if they are responsible for tile damage.
Using high-pressure cleaning can damage your home. It can destroy brick or vinyl siding, and even outdoor electrical components. You’ll have to pay for repairs or repainting, and the cost of repairing the damage is much greater than the cost of using a pressure washing service. And if you’re not careful, you’ll end up with ugly streaks that don’t look as good as you had hoped.
Chemical roof wash
To get your roof looking like new, consider a chemical roof wash. These roof cleaners are made from powerful chemicals that can destroy algae and mold spores. They also work by preventing new stains from growing on the surface. Some of these chemicals are naturally occurring and others are synthesized in laboratories. Soft wash roof cleaners include soaps as extra surfactants and kill algae cells. Bleach also helps control algae growth.
Ammonia-based roof cleaners are particularly effective because they will reactivate when it rains, so you can expect follow-up cleanings for up to 24 months. These roof cleaners are safe for most materials, including wood, slate, clay, tile, and rubber. The strong chemical action will remove grease, dirt, and stains without causing harm to the materials. Chemical roof cleansers are a cost-effective alternative to a full roof replacement, and the results can be spectacular.
Cost
A roof wash can be an inexpensive way to get your home looking nice and new. Prices can range from five to fifteen cents per square foot. Soft wash cleaning is a popular choice among homeowners. Cleaning professionals spray a cleaning solution on the roof, killing algae, moss, and other plant life. While these chemicals can damage some roof tiles, soft washing is generally safe. In addition, soft washing is the best choice for roofs made of rubber or other synthetic materials that are difficult to clean by a conventional chemical wash.
Basic labor for roof cleaning includes the preparation of the site and removal of debris and solids. Cleaning solutions, supplies, and equipment will be used to remove these deposits. Additionally, you’ll need to purchase tools and disposable materials. Specialty equipment may be required. The average price for a roof wash is around $0.90 per square foot. The higher the square footage, the more you’ll pay. Some roofers charge by the hour, so this cost can increase significantly.
Methods
There are several different methods for roof washing. Pressure washing can be a good option for some situations, but it can also cause damage to your shingles and gutters. Be wary of pressure washing PSIs that advertise their capability of killing organisms. Pressure washing also leaves behind the root systems, allowing them to quickly re-grow. It’s therefore essential to use a safe and effective roof cleaning method. Here are some tips for choosing the right method for your home:
A low-pressure wash is also known as a “soft” wash. Some roof cleaning contractors will refer to themselves as “soft” washers and use sodium hydroxide or sodium hypochlorite to clean roofs. Unlike standard power washing, low-pressure washing is gentle enough for shingle roofs and is often combined with gentle chemicals to kill moss. Another method is called soft washing, which involves using a gentle stream of water along with a special chemical mixture. This method is effective for removing algae, mildew, and some types of stains. Click here for the next blog post.