Roof Cleaning Charleston SC removes stains from algae, mildew, mold, moss and lichen on shingle roofs as well as cleaning oxidation on metal roofs. A bleach solution is usually used.
Homeowners must take caution to avoid damaging plants and trees surrounding the house when using this chemical, especially if a gutter system is involved. Washing in small sections is often recommended.
Debris removal is a vital part of roof cleaning, and it is often done by blowing the debris away with air. This removes twigs, leaves, and other organic matter that can cause damage to the roof and prevents it from functioning properly. It also allows you to inspect the roof and look for weakened or damaged shingles that need to be replaced.
In addition, removing debris from your roof on a regular basis helps to keep the structure free of moisture that can accelerate its deterioration. Organic materials like moss, lichen, and algae can trap moisture against the surface of the roof, leading to premature shingle deterioration and other problems. Keeping the roof clean and free of these materials can help extend its lifespan and save you from expensive repair bills in the future.
Another important reason to remove debris from your roof on a regular basis is to protect the gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can redirect rain water and flood the foundation of the house, causing water damage. A professional roof cleaner can ensure that the gutters and downspouts are clear, allowing rainfall to drain from the roof and preventing water damage.
Finally, a buildup of debris can create an ideal environment for pests to nest and infiltrate the home. Leaves, twigs, and other organic material provide an ideal place for insects, rodents, and birds to lay their eggs. Once they have settled in, they can cause significant damage to the structure and your belongings. Regular roof debris removal can help you avoid these problems.
A well-maintained roof is one of the most important components of a home or building. The roof stops wind, rain, and other weather from damaging the structure, keeps people and belongings safe, and keeps the temperature inside comfortable. Keeping the roof free from debris is a necessary step in maintaining it, and the benefits of doing so are enormous. A clean and well-maintained roof is one that can provide years of protection for the home and its inhabitants.
Chemical Application
When a property is in the market to be sold, a dirty roof can be a deal breaker. A home with a beautiful, clean roof can increase its resale value right away. Chemical washing can remove moss, algae and other organic growth that can damage the surface of the roof or stain it. A professional soft wash chemical cleaning process can kill the organisms, clean the stains and restore the integrity of the roof.
Unlike pressure washing which can damage the granular surface of a roof and void any manufacturer warranty, a soft wash treatment can be applied with a low pressure of water to rinse off the chemicals. This will not damage the surface of the shingles, and can actually extend the life of the shingle by slowing down its degradation.
Chemicals used in a soft wash cleaning are often much lower in concentration than bleach or other stronger detergents. Bleach can have a devastating effect on shingles, and high concentrations of chlorine will degrade the surface, causing it to disintegrate prematurely. In most cases, a low concentration of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) is used in combination with TSP (Tri Sodium Phosphate), an enhancer, alcohol and surfactants to create an effective cleaning solution. This mixture does not erode shingles and is safe for the environment.
Soft wash chemicals are able to penetrate the shingle’s surface and kill the organisms that are eating it. These cleaning products are also more effective than brushing and do not leave behind the soap suds and air bubbles that can give a false sense of saturating the biofilm. Using a spray nozzle and directing it against the raised laps of the tiles allows the product to creep under these seams where spores often hide, killing them in the process.
This method of cleaning is far superior to power washing, which uses high amounts of water to remove dirt and debris from the surface of a home. While this may be very effective for a quick clean of the exterior of the house, it does not clean the underlying material as well as a professional chemical application can.
Rinsing
It’s easy to take your roof for granted until something goes wrong. Then it’s high time you give it some attention and get that moss and mildew cleaned up!
Moss and algae growth are unsightly and corrosive to shingles, and they can also cause clogged gutters and drainage issues. If left unchecked, they can eat away at the shingle’s surface and cause structural damage to your home.
Regularly scheduled cleanings can help prevent these issues and extend the life of your roofing materials. Depending on your climate and roof material, regular cleanings may be needed more often than every few years.
A dirty roof can affect the appearance of your entire exterior setting and even decrease the value of your home. However, an immaculate roof will increase curb appeal and boost your home’s value.
Before applying any cleaning solution, it’s important to clear away any loose debris like leaves, twigs, or branches. This step will help protect your gutters and downspouts from clogging and make the cleaning process more effective.
Apply a biodegradable, eco-friendly roof cleaning solution to the entire surface of your roofing materials. Allow the cleaner to sit for about 15-20 minutes to break down and loosen dirt, moss, and algae. Using a soft-bristle brush or scrubbing broom, gently scrub the entire surface of your roof to agitate the cleaning solution and break down organic matter. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose or, if necessary, a low-pressure setting on your pressure washer.
Rather than using the more aggressive power washing approach, soft wash cleaning relies on special detergents and surfactants to seep into all the nooks and crannies of your roof, dissolving dirt trapped beneath shingles and around eaves. This process also uses less water, which helps to conserve this precious natural resource while achieving optimal cleaning results.
Safety
A clean roof isn’t only good for your home’s appearance; it can also increase its lifespan and protect you from mold exposure and other health issues. Regular cleaning can remove moss, dirt, algae, and other organic growth that can cause deterioration of the shingles. It can also keep bugs and critters away and prevent pest infestations.
Getting on the roof isn’t an easy task and requires some safety precautions. You’ll need a ladder to access the roof and will want to wear shoes with non-skid bottoms and gloves that are heavy rubber to avoid slips and falls. You’ll also want to wear a face mask and eye protection to avoid inhaling any chemicals. You’ll also want to make sure you’re using a roof washer that’s designed specifically for your type of roofing material.
For example, if you have a shingled roof that’s susceptible to fungus and algae stains you’ll need to use cleaners that won’t harm the shingles. You’ll also need to choose a day with low humidity and light winds to ensure your cleaning solution is applied evenly. If you have a metal roof, you’ll need to use different cleaners and wash it with mid to high pressure to remove organisms without damaging the paint layer.
While you can do some basic roof cleaning yourself, it’s best to hire a professional for a thorough and safe job. A professional will have the right tools and equipment to safely remove moss, dirt, and organic growth from your roof while ensuring it stays in good condition. In addition, a professional will know what types of cleaners and pressure washers to use for each type of roof and how to properly rinse them to prevent water damage. They’ll also be familiar with any local or national laws that may regulate the use of cleaning solutions and what steps to take to protect surrounding plants and shrubs. They’ll also have experience working on sloped roofs and will know how to avoid water leaks.