While we may not give much attention to our home’s roof during our hectic daily schedules, there comes a point where we realize it’s in need of some basic maintenance. Perhaps your roof’s shingles are noticeably faded, or worse, you’ve recognized green patches of moss or black streaks of blue-green algae forming.

Some of these things, such as dirt or algae, mainly affect your home’s aesthetic. Others, like moss growth, can harm the function of asphalt shingles and lead to roof leaks. Either way, it’s helpful to occasionally schedule roof cleaning and maintenance with professional roofers. However, there are a few things to consider if you are seeking roof cleaning tips for your own DIY roof cleaning project.

Cleaning Your Roof Includes Cleaning Its Surroundings

If moss or algae has formed on your roof, the cause may be from the trees and shrubbery that cause damp and shaded conditions around your roof. To prevent this, trim back overhanging branches to expose the roof to sunlight while removing branches and leaves from your roof with a leaf blower if needed. Keep gutters clean to ensure roofs remain as dry as possible. 

Be Smart About Roof Cleaning

It isn’t advised to use a pressure washer, which can loosen shingles and harm your roof. An alternative is to wait for an overcast day and utilize a sprayer attached to a garden hose, which can be filled with equal parts water and laundry-strength liquid chlorine bleach. This will prevent the sun from evaporating your cleaning agent too quickly. After spraying the roof with the mixture, let it sit for about 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water.

Also, if you are going to clean your home’s roof with bleach, it’s advised that you wet any plants and shrubbery nearby your home thoroughly with plain water before covering them with plastic, then rinse them again after using the bleach solution on your roof. 

Last But Not Least, Safety First

Cleaning your roof requires safety precautions, and for some with multi-story homes, it may be unsafe for DIY cleaning altogether. A rule of thumb is that if your roof’s slope is too steep or if your house is more than one story, a professional is your best option. For those with a manageable roof to clean, precautions should still be taken, such as wearing proper shoes with slip-resistant rubber soles and applying for eye and skin protection.

For more tips on how to clean your home’s roof, or to schedule a roof cleaning, contact us today.