When was the last time you partook in some roof cleaning activity?
If you said never, then you should change your habits right away.
We understand that nobody likes to spend hours at end cleaning their roof. It, however, is beneficial for your home. That’s because it extends the roof’s longevity and keeps possible maintenance issues at bay. You also get to inspect the roof for moss and critters when you’re on the top.
Our roof specialists from Colorado are here to teach you the basics of roof cleaning.
Let’s have a look:
1. Know How to Prepare for Roof Cleaning
DIY roof cleaning is incomplete without the right supplies and gear. We recommend that you consult with a roofing specialist in Colorado before undertaking the task. Or at least research the essential supplies and equipment you may need.
Here are a few things you should consider:
- Wear long sleeves and overalls to protect your skin.
- Wear rubber gloves to prevent scratches.
- Check your ladder to ensure that it isn’t wobbly or broken.
- Learn about cleaning agents and disinfectants that work on roof stains.
- Gather cleaning supplies (e.g. leaf blower, dustpan, small brush, etc.)
Once you have got everything you need, then you can move to the next step.
2. Start with the Gutters
You should begin your roof cleaning routine with gutters. This is especially true in situations where your gutters and downspouts look clogged. Use a leaf blower to clear out the leaves and clutter before washing the rooftop. You have to do this to clear the passageway for the water that flows away when you’re cleaning the actual roof.
Without a clear gutter, your roof would become a soggy mess, or the gutters would overflow. That could then lead to gutter maintenance issues.
3. Sweep Away the Debris
Can you see dirt and debris clinging to your rooftop?
If you’re thinking about spraying stains with water, then don’t do it. That would only cause the leaves and twigs to stick to your roof. It also makes more messes than the regular method.
Your best option is to:
- Use a leaf blower to blow off the leaves and twigs.
- Swipe off the remaining leaves with a small brush.
- Pick up any other rubbish you see on the rooftop.
Also, you can avoid potential roof maintenance issues by trimming the overhanging branches near the roof. The little pruning prevents leaves and fruits from cluttering your rooftop.
4. Clean, Rinse & Repeat
Can DIY roof cleaning work for moss and algae?
We highly recommend that you hire a roof cleaning service in Colorado for this procedure. It would prevent costly mistakes and caustic reactions. If you’re adamant in trying things on by yourself, then this is what you should do:
- Identify patches of moss/fungal growth.
- Hose off the dirty shingles and superficial stains on your roof.
- Spray the roof with a homemade cleaning solution (made from chlorine bleach and water.)
- Let the solution dry for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse it off with clean water.
- Re-spray the again then repeat steps 5-6.
Tip: The key here is to choose a cool and cloudy day so that the cleaning solution doesn’t dry off too soon.
Are You Ready to Clean the Roof?
In the end, proper prep and a clear plan make roof cleaning easier. Your best bet is to start with gutters and then move onto the stubborn stains. Practice this cleaning routine once a month to maintain the roof.
With that said, if stains and infestations don’t budge, then you should call the professionals. The roofing specialists from Sauve Construction would gladly take over.
