A clean roof not only enhances the curb appeal of your property but also plays a vital role in protecting your home from the elements. It shields you from rain, snow, and scorching sun. Maintaining a clean roof is essential for maximizing its lifespan and functionality.
However, improper cleaning methods can cause more harm than good. The average cost of roof cleaning in the UK is £350 to £500 which can be doubled if you neglect the necessary steps.
Here’s a breakdown of common mistakes to avoid, ensuring a safe and successful roof-cleaning process.
1. Ignoring Safety Precautions
Roof cleaning can be risky, especially if you don’t prioritize safety. So it is better to take the time to protect your surrounding areas properly and make necessary safety measures for yourself before commencing roof cleaning. Doing this’ll avoid the trouble and cost of cleaning or fixing any siding or landscaping damage.
- Sturdy Footwear and Ladder: Always wear slip-resistant shoes with good grip. Ensure your ladder is the right height for the job, securely placed on level ground, and extends at least three feet above the roofline. Purchase an appropriate extension staircase with a broad base for added support.
- Prevent Falls: Utilize a harness and lifeline anchored to a sturdy structure to prevent falls. Never try to clean an uneven or damp roof.
- Protective equipment: Wear eye protection, gloves, and long sleeves to shield yourself from debris and cleaning solutions.
- Never clean your roof alone. Have a spotter on the ground who can assist you, hold the ladder steady, and call for help in case of an accident. The spotter should also know your location on the roof and any potential hazards you might encounter.
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2. Pressure Washing Like a Power Washer Pro
Pressure washers are tempting for their cleaning power but are highly detrimental to roofs. The forceful water stream can cause costly repairs and compromise your roof’s integrity.
- Dislodge Shingles and Granules: Asphalt shingles have protective particles that enhance weather resistance. High pressure can dislodge these small fragments, reduce the lifespan of your roof, and expose it to vulnerabilities like leaks and ultraviolet (UV) damage from the sun.
- Damage Underlying Structure: The intense water flow can force water beneath shingles and into the roof deck. This can lead to leaks and structural problems that can be expensive to fix.
3. Chemical Warfare: Using the Wrong Cleaning Solutions
Not every roof cleaning solution is made equal. Apply a cleaning agent designed to gently clean your roofing material while eliminating dirt, algae, and lichen. Most hardware stores provide these solutions. You may also ask a licensed roof cleaner for advice on which product is best for your particular type of roof.
- Corrosive Effects: Wear and tear on metal and shingle roofs can be accelerated by things such as ammonia, bleach, or abrasive cleansers that eat away at the asphalt layer. Roof replacement may become necessary as a result of early roof failure. Harsh chemicals can cause permanent discoloration or staining on your roof.
- Fungus Growth Promotion: Some harsh chemicals can ironically promote moss and algae growth by disturbing the natural balance of microorganisms on your roof. These chemicals may kill the existing moss and algae, but they can also create an environment conducive to their return, negating your cleaning efforts.
- Environmental Impact: Strong chemicals can harm nearby plants and pollute rainwater runoff.
4. DIY Disaster: Neglecting Professional Help
Hiring a professional roof cleaner is highly recommended for certain roof types, extensive cleaning projects, or situations with significant moss or algae growth. Here’s when to consider expertise:
- Steep or Complex Roofs: For those without experience, cleaning a high roof might be hazardous. Professionals are equipped with the right tools and know how to negotiate these roofs safely.
- Significant Damage: An experienced cleaner will have the knowledge and equipment necessary to handle the task safely and effectively if your roof has major destruction, mold development, or spots that won’t go away.
- Fragile Roof Materials: Certain roof materials, such as slate or cedar, require special cleaning techniques. Professionals understand the proper techniques to clean these materials without causing damage.
5. Blind Cleaning: Not Inspecting Before You Begin
Ignoring pre-cleaning evaluations can result in cleaning that is not effective and problems going unnoticed. Protect yourself from costly procedures by scanning for any existing impairments such as loose or missing shingles, cracked tiles, or signs of rot. If you find any damage, address it before cleaning to prevent further issues. This allows for a targeted cleaning approach and addresses all problem areas.
- Close Visual Examination: Identify any obvious damage to the flashing, gutters, and roof’s surface.
- Check for Leaks: Water intrusion inside your attic, stains, or warped ceiling joists can significantly impact the whole cleaning process. So, try to fix it first.
- Identify Underlying Issues: if you see moss or algae growth anywhere on your roof, it may indicate poor ventilation or moisture problems. Addressing these underlying issues is essential for long-term roof health.
6. Forgetting the Gutters: Ignoring the Gateway to Clogs
The drainage system on your roof depends heavily on your gutters. Leaks and roof damage can result from water backing up under the shingles due to clogged gutters. The following is how to maintain clean gutters:
- Regular drain cleaning: If your house is surrounded by multiple trees, it is recommended that you look after your draining pipes and clean them more than once a year. Remove anything clogging the drains, such as leaves and twigs, for proper outflow.
- Check your downspouts: It is critical to ensure that discharges are appropriately directed away from the basement of your property in order to avoid water damage to your siding and foundation.
7. Ignoring Unfavourable Weather Conditions
For safe and efficient roof cleaning, the external climate is very important. Cleaning your roof during poor weather conditions can be counterproductive and sometimes dangerous. In light of the following:
- Direct Sunlight: Avoid cleaning your roof on a hot, sunny day. The intense heat can cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, reducing its effectiveness. This can also make the cleaning process more uncomfortable and potentially lead to heat exhaustion.
- High Winds: Strong winds can make it difficult to maintain balance while working on the roof and can also blow cleaning solutions onto unwanted areas.
- Rain: Cleaning a wet roof is extremely slippery and dangerous. Wait for a dry day with clear skies for optimal cleaning conditions.
It would be beneficial to schedule your roof cleaning for a cool, overcast day with little to no wind.
8. Post-Cleaning Neglect: Forgetting the Final Touches
The job isn’t finished once the cleaning is complete. Here are some final steps to ensure a successful outcome:
- Final Look: Perform a visual inspection of your roof after the cleaning to ensure all trash has been removed and there are no signs of damage.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Tree trunks that rub against or droop over your roof can lead to punctures and debris accumulation. To reduce these risks, regularly cut overgrown branches.
- Gutter Cleaning Revisit: After cleaning your roof, give your gutters another wipe to ensure all the dirt that may have fallen during the operation is gone.
- Moss Control Treatment: Consider professional ways of lichen control to prevent regrowth.
9. Rushing the Rinse
If you dispose of cleaning residue improperly, you could damage your property and contaminate the environment. A detergent leftover from an incomplete rinse may draw dirt and encourage new moss growth.
- Complete Saturation: Be careful to fully rinse the roof with clean water in all areas in order to remove any remaining cleaning solution and prevent staining.
- Hidden Corners: You should mainly pay close attention to valleys, eaves, and other areas where the remnants might pool and dry unevenly.
Conclusion:
Adhering to these guidelines and avoiding typical blunders can prolong your roof’s lifespan, safety, and maximum performance. Always prioritize safety, use the proper tools, and consider scheduled repairs to maintain the best-looking roof possible.
Don’t be afraid to seek professional advice if you have any doubts about any part of roof cleaning to prevent expensive mistakes.
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