As a homeowner, you spend a lot of time and energy cleaning the inside of your home. From mopping the kitchen floor to scrubbing the countertops to dusting the shelves, there’s no shortage of things to do.
It’s important to clean the exterior of your home, as well, including your roof. However, a mop and bucket aren’t going to cut it — you need the right tools for the job. Many homeowners turn to pressure washing to remove moss, algae, dirt, and other debris from the outside of their homes.
Before you rent some pressure washing equipment and get started, let’s pause for a moment and ask the all-important question: Will pressure washing damage your roof?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the potential risks of pressure washing your roof, safe alternatives to consider, and preventative measures to consider.
Understanding Pressure Washing and Its Risks
First, let’s take a look at how pressure washers work. By using a pressurized jet of water, they blast away all kinds of dirt and debris, and at higher pressures, they can even strip paint or remove rust.
When you’re using a pressure washer, choosing the right PSI — pounds per square inch — is key. The higher the PSI, the more pressure. While 3,000 PSI might be suitable for heavy-duty surfaces like concrete, it’s not a good choice for your roof.
Roofs can withstand a lot. From wind and rain to snow and ice, they protect your home from the elements. However, the pressurized, concentrated water jets can damage shingles, especially those made from asphalt or wood. Even clay and slate tiles are not immune — pressure washing can cause them to weaken or break. No matter what your shingles are made of, pressure washing can force water underneath them, where it can lead to leaks and mold.
Safe Alternatives to Pressure Washing
While pressure washing isn’t a great option for most roofs, there are alternative cleaning methods you can use to keep your roof in optimal condition and avoid build-up.
Soft Washing
Soft washing is a gentler version of pressure washing. It uses a lower PSI — typically between 500 to 1,000 — to remove dirt and debris without damaging your roof. While this may not seem like a lot when compared to the high-pressure jets used to clean driveways and sidewalks, it’s still much more pressurized than the average garden hose, which only achieves about 40 to 60 PSI.
The nozzle used for soft washing is different, as well. Rather than a turbo nozzle designed to focus the stream of water, soft washing typically uses a fan nozzle that widens the spray of water. Plus, biodegradable cleaning solutions are often added to the water to increase efficacy and make up for the lower pressure.
Soft washing is the safer option for roof cleaning. Whether you do it yourself or get the help of a professional, skip the pressure washing and opt for this gentler alternative.
Manual Cleaning Methods
You can also use manual methods to get your roof clean. Start by using a leaf blower to remove leaves and debris. Then, using a roof-safe cleaning solution, garden hose, and soft brush, gently scrub your roof to remove algae, moss, and build-up. Give it a final rinse to wash away the solution, and you’re done!
However, these techniques are not recommended for high or steep roofs, as well as older roofs or those in poor condition, as walking on precarious surfaces without proper safety equipment or training can be highly dangerous. Plus, manually cleaning your whole roof takes a lot of time and energy, so this method is best used on small areas where build-up is especially significant.
Preventative Measures to Keep Your Roof Clean
There are also things you can do to prevent your roof from getting dirty in the first place. If algae, mold, mildew, or moss growth is a persistent issue, install zinc or copper strips at the peak of your roof. When water runs down the roof, it carries tiny metal particles with it that stop microbes and fungus.
Additionally, trimming overhanging tree branches can reduce debris accumulation, especially in the fall. Keep your gutters flowing freely, and schedule regular roof inspections to identify problems before they have the chance to escalate.
Expert Maintenance Services by Kanga Roof
Whether you need a roof inspection, repairs, or advice on roof cleaning methods, Kanga Roof is here for you. Our expert team is dedicated to providing the solutions you need to keep your roof in great condition for years to come. Contact us today to learn more or schedule your service appointment.
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