We told you last month how to clean your tile roof but of course it is not the only type of roof out there. Each type of roof and its material will require unique cleaning. Today at Hydro Tek we are going to go over the basics of cleaning your shingle roof with a pressure washer.
Is it time to clean your shingle roof?
First of all, it is important to know how to tell when it is time to clean your shingle roof. It may be clear, depending on the situation. For example, do you see moss growing on your roof? Then you likely know right away that it is time to clean it. However, other signs may not be as obvious, such as black or dark streaks on your roof, or organic debris on your roof. These are all examples that should lead to cleaning your shingle roof.
What happens if you don’t clean your shingle roof?
Those black and dark streaks you see on your shingles are what’s known as Gloeocapsa Magma. It’s spread by spores that are spread throughout the air and they can contribute to mold and mildew. They don’t have a huge impact on the roof itself but it doesn’t look good. If you have moss on your roof then you should act right away. It can lift and crack the shingles, and it can even slowly eat them. You don’t always have to remove the moss but it does need to be treated so that it will stop growing.
Finally, if you have organic debris on your roof then this not only doesn’t look good but it can actually lock moisture into your roof, which can shorten its lifespan significantly. Note that no matter what is on your roof, the first step is to get off the growth and things that are visibly unsightly. However, this is just the first step – you still need to actually clean the roof. That’s where a water pressure washer comes in.
Get the right tools and accessories to clean your shingle roof
The first step is cleaning your shingle roof is to make sure you have the right equipment. Get a cold water pressure washer that can blast away the dirt and grime in no time at all. Then get the right detergent. You can make our own out of bleach and water. If you need accessories, you can turn to Hydro Tek for those to too.
The bottom line is that if you have the right equipment, you know what you’re doing, and you’re willing to invest a little bit of time, you can clean off your roof just as well as the professionals could. If you get the right water pressure washer, you can even do it from the ground. If you are wondering about the best accessories and other options, please reach out to us for assistance.