Roof Care 101: Tips for Proper Cleaning Your Tile, Shingle, Flat, or Metal Roof
This article will highlight three easy tips for good maintenance on the different roof types. Keep your roof clear of debris, leaves, tree branches, and trash. Following these basic guidelines will ensure adequate water flow and drainage to prevent damage to your roof. Don’t let poor maintenance lead to more significant issues in the future.
How to Clean a Tile Roof:
Tile roofs are known for their beauty and durability. Despite this, common problems seen on this material are moss, algae, and lichen, all typical organic growths. The level of development will depend on the area you live in and whether that is conducive to its growth.
However, if not given proper cleaning and maintenance, it will impact the esthetic look and compromise the material over time. Here are some ways to keep your tile roof clean.
Keeping safety in mind, wear non-slip shoes to go up to the roof at a slow and steady pace. If not comfortable with this task, always hire a professional to do so. Your safety is most important. A professional will be able to do the job safely, skillfully, and efficiently.
You may work in a sectional pattern using a low PSI pressure washer or chemical treatment. Remember to walk over tile overlap areas, as they are much more sturdy than other parts of the roof, and allow weight distribution on this material to not damage the existing tile.
Carefully pressure wash the roof by section. Diligently removing all debris and leaves allows you to inspect any areas of concern. A chemical treatment may be beneficial if you notice moss, algae, or lichen. If you see this problem, contact us for a detailed inspection.
How to Clean a Shingle Roof:
Shingle roofs are known for their traditional look, affordability, and effectiveness. However, a lack of proper cleaning will eventually lead to mildew buildup, granule loss, blistering, and short aesthetic life. Shingle roofs may also accumulate moss and algae if the weather is conducive to growth.
Left unkempt with any accumulation of leaves and debris, especially in slopes, will eventually lead to blocked roof valleys, pooling of water, deteriorated material, and leaks. Here are some tips to keep your shingle roof clean:
If comfortable walking on your roof, take safety precautions to go up steadily. Do not attempt to do the cleaning if you have a steep roof.
You may use a broom or a leaf blower to remove all debris and leaves efficiently. If you have algae or moss, check out a detailed step-by-step guide on using chemical cleaners to restore the natural look effectively. Cleaning materials are usually non-corrosive and environmentally friendly, so only mildew, moss, or algae may be disrupted, and roof material can stay intact.
Keep in mind that some shingle material may have algae-resistant components that facilitate overall maintenance by preventing overgrowth. If this is the case, you may want to reach out to us directly for proper cleaning guidance.
How to Clean a Flat Roof:
Versatile and energy-efficient, flat roofs are popular for many property owners. Despite this fact, they are notorious for leaks and may be problematic if leaves and debris block any drainage area. Property owners with this type of roof are encouraged to stay ahead of the game. Ideally, cleaning their roofs a few times a year with a consistent once-a-month schedule during winter would do the trick. Doing so assures proper drainage and further prevents stagnant water pools from breaking down roof material and leading to leaks.
A good cleaning will keep the roof in a spic-and-span condition. Some essential tips are the following:
Flat roofs are the easiest to clean out of all the other roof types. Flat roofs are Flat, hence easy to walk on, safe, and easily accessible. The cleaning process should be smooth sailing if you have this type of roof.
Stay safe by wearing non-slip shoes. Go up to the roof at a slow and steady pace if you feel comfortable—no need to rush the process.
Using a broom or leaf blower, remove all trash, leaves, and debris, and you can clear the area. If you have a pressure washer, feel free to give it a quick wash to remove any standing debris.
Thoroughly inspect the roof for any areas of concern. Call us if you notice a spot at the top that needs further evaluation.
How to Clean a Metal Roof:
A metal roof offers longevity and an attractive appeal over a long time if given proper maintenance. Like others, they are not entirely resistant to mold, moss, and mildew. Simply cleaning with a pressure washer will remove all debris and improve water flow. Metal roofs, therefore, will be adequately maintained over time. Take the following considerations when cleaning a metal roof:
Safety First! Metal is slippery, especially when wet due to water or cleaning agents. If possible, you can use a garden hose to rinse all debris from the ground. If you are comfortable going up, wear shoes with good traction. Do this process alongside a friend and consider using fall precaution equipment.
Like other roof types, remove all the debris with water from a garden hose. Using a power washer for metal roof cleaning is not recommended, as the pressure may cause dents.
Inspect your clean roof. Call us for assistance if you prefer not to do this alone or see concerning areas.
You should become familiar with the correct cleaning technique for your roof. Every type of roof offers benefits but does come with some downside. You can assure longevity and effectiveness through a good cleaning schedule and maintain an aesthetically looking property. Properties with overgrown vegetation may need more attention and consistent cleaning. Keeping your roof clean will help you or a professional notice of any areas of concern, such as deteriorating material.
Need a Roof Consultation?
Over the past 20 years, Top Roofing Inc has been committed to providing inspections and estimates for local property owners. Top roofing Inc. values educating property owners with basic ways to maintain the overall quality of their roof for long-lasting functionality. Top Roofing Inc. offers professional roof inspections and free estimates to further evaluate any areas of concern. We are committed to providing in-depth facts on the condition of your roof and education to keep your roof in a pristine condition.
Did you find an area of concern during the cleaning process? Contact us today for a roof consultation at: (877) 353-6688.
