As a smart-thinking homeowner, you want to know you’re providing proper care and maintenance for your roof. After all, it is the most significant barrier protecting your home and family from the elements. Neglecting your roof can result in expensive damage down the line. Scheduling at least one annual roof cleaning and inspection can go a long way in preventing long-term issues with your roof. When done correctly by a professional contractor, periodic cleaning can add years of life and value to your roof.
Why Roof Cleaning is Necessary
Roof cleaning is an essential aspect of your roof maintenance routine. It’s much easier to locate issues during the inspection if the roof is entirely clear of organic matter such as algae or lichen. Roofing professionals can also work more efficiently when inspecting the roof or completing repairs if your roof is clean.
Left alone, algae and lichens can cause severe damage to the roofing system. Over time, roof shingles can begin to separate as high moisture content accelerates decay. As the shingles shift, rainwater can seep through the gaps and into the attic, accelerating deterioration. Water can seep underneath your roof and trigger water damage to the frame. A roofing system saturated with moisture also creates a perfect habitat for mold to grow.
The smart way to prevent all these problems is to have a trusted local roofer regularly clean your roof. Other reasons why roof cleaning is essential to include:
- Solid Investment: Having your roof cleaned regularly is a good investment. When black streaks of roof algae build up on your roof, your home absorbs more sunlight, raising heat build-up and AC runtime. A clean roof works much better in reflecting the sun’s rays and ultimately lowering your energy costs over time.
- Extends the Lifespan of Your Roof: While asphalt shingles can last 20-25 years, dirt, algae, and debris can significantly accelerate the aging process. Regular cleaning can help put off roof replacement for longer.
- Increases Curb Appeal: Keeping your roof clean is an excellent way to enhance curb appeal and attract more potential buyers when it’s time to sell your home.
How to Make Roof Cleaning Safe
Some companies offer to pressure wash your roof to make it look brand new. Unfortunately, pressure washing with too much psi may cause a lot of damage to your roof, particularly asphalt or tile roofs whose components can be pushed out of position by the intense spray. Spraying highly pressurized water from the roofline edges (against the roof tile lay) can also cause uplifting and push water underneath. In a nutshell, pressure washing will only cost you more money down the line, with potential damage to your roof’s substructure.
If your roofing system needs washing, be sure to hire a roofing company who uses soft cleaning technology and biodegradable cleaning solutions. You don’t want harmful chemicals destroying your landscaping or drain into the sewer system.
Schedule Your Professional Roof Cleaning
At S&S Roofing, we offer affordable roof cleaning solutions to remove harmful mold, algae, dirt, and grime. Roof cleaning is an essential part of home maintenance and roof maintenance. Having a clean roof prevents decay, resulting in expensive roof repairs or even a total roof replacement. Maintaining your roof through regular cleaning will also extend your roof’s lifespan and help it stay more functional for several years to come. Contact us today for a free estimate!
