Cleaning your roof is without a doubt one of the best ways to prolong its life. But did you know that cleaning a roof is not a one-size-fits-all job? Depending on the type of roof, age of the roof, and level of filth, the best way to clean it will surely differ.
Important Things To Consider Before Cleaning Your Roof
Below are the essential considerations you ought to make before starting your roof cleaning project:
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Tools And Equipment
Before you start your roof cleaning project, you should have everything you need. If your roof hasn’t been cleaned for quite some time, you’ll likely need a reliable pressure washer and roof cleaning solution. Commercial roof cleaning solutions are available, or you can create one by mixing one gallon of water and a dish liquid detergent or any similar cleaning agent.
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Your Skills
Do you have any experience cleaning a roof? Roof cleaning and maintenance are crucial to preserving the life of your roofing system. However, this task can be dangerous if you don’t have the right tools, equipment, and skills. You might as well hire a roof cleaning professional to do the job to avoid compromising your safety and life.
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Possible Presence Of Asbestos
You also need to consider the possible presence of asbestos when cleaning and repairing your roof to avoid exposure. It’s vital to seek the expert help of an asbestos removal Auckland specialist or one from where you live if you suspect the presence of asbestos. Houses built in the 1990s have a high chance of asbestos contamination because this compound was widely used in home and building construction, particularly in drywalls, at that time. Hence, it pays off hiring a professional to tackle the job to avoid health and safety hazards.
Don’t let your roof get easily damaged because of lack of maintenance. Roofs can last for generations with regular cleaning and preventive maintenance repairs.
So stop living under a pile of dirt and read on to learn the best method of roof cleaning in this handy guide.
Cleaning by Power Washing
Cleaning your roof with a pressure washer may be the first method you think of, but it’s not the best method for all roofs. It also takes a great deal of expertise to remove all of the dirt and debris lodged in the cracks and crevices of a roof using a power washer. Not to mention the challenges of balancing on a roof with a pressurized water gun.
Be careful not to dislodge any loose shingles and fully inspect the condition of your roof before hitting it with a pressure washer. Older roofs can’t handle the high pressure and you may end up causing serious roof damage.
This service will take the challenges off of your hands and tackle the job with a professional approach.
Cleaning With a Soft Wash System
A soft wash system for roof cleaning is a less intense type of cleaning that is good for older roofs. The particular detergents seep into all of the pits and pores of your roofing material and loosen all of the dirt. The chemical solution will eliminate all of the dark residue spots and restore its luster.
Soft wash cleaning systems are gentle but strong. The cleanser will work its way along the undersides of all shingles and around the flashing of your roof as well. A low-pressure rinse is all it takes to remove dirt, so older roofs should be able to withstand this kind of cleaning.
How to Clean a Metal Roof
Cleaning a metal roof is easier than other types of roofs, as the surface is usually flatter and more smooth.
Start by using a tri-sodium phosphate mix to wash away any mold or mildew that is growing on top of the roof. You should use a bristled brush with a long handle for this part.
Once your chemical cleaner has been applied, use water to rinse all of the chemicals off. Be sure to be very thorough in rinsing, as leftover chemicals can lead to corrosion over time. Once your roof has been cleaned you can add a sealer to further protect it.
Roof Cleaning Will Prolong the Life of Your Roof
Whether you decide to do your own roof cleaning or hire a professional service, keeping your roof clean will prolong its life. A new roof is one of the largest expenses of homeownership, so getting all you can out of your current one is a good idea.
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