While roofs may seem out of sight and often out of mind, they are an important part of your home that should be cleaned regularly. Cleaning your roof will help preserve the shingles’ life span and improve your home’s curb appeal.
To clean your roof, a solution of liquid chlorine bleach and water can kill any moss or algae growth. Then, the shingles can be rinsed off with a hose. Contact Roof Cleaning Summerville SC now!
When it comes to boosting curb appeal, many homeowners focus on landscaping and painting the exterior of their home. However, one key element that can have a significant impact is professional roof cleaning. Over time, roofs can become stained or covered with moss and algae, which can detract from the overall look of your home. Regular roof cleaning can remove these unsightly growths and restore the appearance of your shingles, which will have an immediate impact on your home’s curb appeal.
In addition to improving the look of your home, roof cleaning can also help protect it from damage. Dirt, algae, and moss can shorten the lifespan of your shingles, which can lead to costly repairs. Regular roof cleaning can remove these growths before they cause serious damage, so that you can enjoy your shingles for as long as possible.
A clean, attractive roof can also increase your property value. Research shows that homes with enhanced curb appeal can sell for up to 7% more than similar houses with less appealing exteriors. This boost in curb appeal can translate into thousands of dollars in added value for your home, proving that investing in roof cleaning is well worth the effort.
During showings, a dirty or stained roof can distract potential buyers from the other positive features of your home. A professional roof cleaning can eliminate dark streaks and stains, ensuring that your roof is a seamless part of your home’s curb appeal. This can help you sell your home faster and for a higher price.
A clean roof can also improve your home’s energy efficiency. Dirty shingles can absorb heat and increase your cooling costs. Regular roof cleaning can remove this buildup and allow your shingles to more effectively reflect sunlight, reducing your energy bills. This can result in significant savings for you and your family.
Prevents Water Damage
Moss and algae may seem innocuous at a glance, but they can wreak havoc on a roof. They hold moisture against the shingles, causing them to deteriorate and leak over time. This leads to extensive damage, resulting in costly repairs and potential health problems for residents. Regular cleaning can prevent these issues and extend the life expectancy of a roof.
During roof cleaning, the focus is on killing and removing moss and algae growth. Chemical solutions are used, such as chlorine bleach (the kind you use to whiten laundry) and sodium percarbonate, to lighten stains and remove the buildup. The ARMA (Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association) recommends these chemicals and others for use on asphalt shingles.
The cleaning process also clears debris like leaves, twigs and branches. These can restrict water flow through the gutters, preventing proper drainage and causing stagnation. This can lead to leaks and even structural damage within the building. Regular cleaning ensures that the roof is free of debris and allows water to flow into the gutters and away from the structure.
A professional cleaning can also reveal areas of concern. Soft spots in a roof indicate the need for structural repair, and they may be hidden under layers of water stains or dirt and grime. It is important to fix these areas promptly to protect the integrity of the building and avoid further damage.
Some cleaning methods, such as pressure washing or harsh chemicals, can damage the protective seal on a roof and cause leaks. A poor cleaning job can also dislodge shingle granules, which protect the shingles from sunlight and the elements. These granules can be broken apart by casual brushing or by power washing, which reduces the lifespan of your shingles. In addition, dislodged granules can wind up in your gutters and downspouts, clogging them and blocking the flow of water.
Prevents Mold and Algae Growth
Algae, moss, mildew, and mold can all contribute to unsightly roof stains. They can also pose health problems if they enter the home through damaged shingles. Preventing their growth through regular inspections and cleaning is key to maintaining your home’s beauty and safeguarding its structural integrity.
Unchecked algae growth can lead to black streaks on asphalt shingle roofs. The dark stains are caused by Gloeocapsa Magma algae that thrives in Florida’s humid climate. The algae spreads from airborne spores that settle on the surface of the roof and feed off of limestone filler in the shingles. The algae then releases a chemical that makes the roof appear dirty, dark and ugly.
Left unchecked, the algae can cause major issues with your roof’s structure and deteriorate shingle granules that protect the underside of the shingles. The fungus can also cause water leaks and decrease your energy savings as it absorbs sunlight instead of reflecting it.
If you notice the appearance of fungus or algae on your roof, it’s important to contact professionals for Roof Cleaning. Trying to remove the growth yourself with bleach or other harsh chemicals could result in expensive roof leaks or damage to your shingles. The bleach may also wash away essential nutrients that help shingles repel water and resist algae and fungus growth.
A professional Roof Cleaning uses biodegradable cleaning solutions that kill and remove fungus, algae, moss, and mildew without damaging the shingles. These products can also be used to clean other exterior surfaces of your house and won’t harm landscaping or paint jobs. This method is safer and gentler than power washing, which can damage the shingles and void your roofing warranty.
To prevent moss, algae and mold from growing on your roof, keep the gutters free of debris that can trap moisture and trim overhanging branches. In addition, improving your roof ventilation will prevent standing water and make it less hospitable to moss and other fungi. Regular roof maintenance and routine cleanings can help prevent microbial growth, but when it does occur, it’s important to act quickly with Roof Cleaning.
Prevents Damage to Shingles
When left untreated, natural contaminants like algae, moss, and mildew can eat through the shingles, weakening their structure. This deterioration can lead to leaks and cause expensive damage to the roof over time. Roof Cleaning eliminates these organic growths and their root systems, keeping the shingles clean and intact.
It’s important to hire a professional Roof Cleaning Company with experience in shingle roof cleaning and repair. These experts can safely walk on the roof to perform a thorough inspection before and during the cleaning process. They will also know how to spot potential leak areas and other damage before it becomes an issue.
Roof cleaning professionals typically use a soft washing system with specialized cleaning solutions that remove dirt from the shingles without damaging them. This is much safer and more effective than pressure washing, which can cause granules to be stripped from the shingles.
A soft wash will also clean the nooks and crannies of the shingles, dissolving any dirt that’s trapped beneath them or around the eaves of the roof. This prevents clogged gutters and drains, which can lead to water damage. It can also reduce the risk of Sick House Syndrome, which is a medical condition that can be caused by mold and mildew.
If you decide to do a DIY Roof Cleaning, it’s important to follow the directions carefully. Using the wrong amount or type of cleaning solution can stain the shingles. The best way to avoid this is to use a long-handled roof rake or brush to remove the debris before applying the cleaner. Then, make sure to rinse the shingles with clean water afterward.
You can choose to use a home-made cleaning solution, such as bleach and water, or a store-bought commercial cleaner. Either one of these can be used to kill the fungi and algae that are causing black streaks on your roof. Be sure to wear safety goggles and rubber gloves, as the chemicals can be harmful if they come into contact with your skin. Also, it’s important to protect the shrubbery and outdoor furniture from falling debris during cleaning.