Safe Roof Cleaning
With the price of a new roof, giving it the proper cleaning with a professional is critical.
A quick little story…
One of our first clients called us out to do a small cleanup job on his pool deck. Towards the end he mentioned his homeowners insurance company would not insure his home unless he had his roof repaired with an estimated 30-40 cracked tiles. We were asked to take a look at his roof & let him know our thoughts. Up the roof we went & I have never seen so many broken tiles on a roof. I counted 106 broken tiles on this 5,000 sq ft home in Wellington, Florida. I am sure I missed a few too! Not only the broken tiles but I noticed pressure marks on the roof & the grains were coming right off with the slightest touch. Unfortunately for the client this not even decade old roof was toast. After some conversation it came to light that he had a handyman clean his roof with a pressure washer, which he even brought up on the roof with him. To make the story short he needed to replace his $50,000+ roof or he cannot get one of his most valuable possessions insured.
Normally in these blogs I write a how to for home owners & other contractors but roof cleaning is one service I don’t think any homeowner should perform.
To state the obvious roof cleaning can be extremely dangerous & risking your life to save a couple hundred dollars is not worth it. Secondly, 99.9% of homeowners do not have the correct equipment to safely & efficiently clean their roof.
Here is a guide we take into roof cleanings here at RHI Pressure Washing.
Cleaning a roof in Florida comes with its own set of considerations due to the climate and environmental conditions. Here's a tailored guide for cleaning a roof in Florida safely and effectively:
Evaluate the Roof: Determine the type of roofing material you have (shingles, tiles, metal, etc.), its condition, and any specific cleaning requirements. If your roof is particularly steep or high, consider hiring professionals for safety reasons.
Check Weather Conditions: Florida weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rainstorms or high winds. Choose a day with a clear weather forecast to ensure safe working conditions.
Safety Gear: Wear non-slip shoes, safety goggles, and gloves. If the roof is steep, use a safety harness and rope system for added protection.
Clear the Area: Remove any objects near the work area that could pose a tripping hazard or impede ladder placement.
Ladder Safety: Set up your ladder on a flat surface. If you're cleaning a tile roof, make sure the ladder is stable and won't damage the tiles. If your roof is steep or high, consider using ladder stabilizers or a ladder standoff for added stability.
Cleaning Solutions: Depending on the type of roof and the specific cleaning needs, choose a suitable cleaning solution. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the roofing material or harm surrounding vegetation.
Mold and Mildew: In Florida's humid climate, mold and mildew growth is common. Use a solution of mild soap, water, & bleach to gently neutralize mold and mildew spots. Always follow manufacturer instructions and take precautions to protect surrounding landscaping from runoff.
Soft Washing: In Florida, pressure washing can damage roofing materials and lead to water intrusion. Instead, use a gentle technique called "soft washing," which involves applying the cleaning solution and then rinsing with a low-pressure hose.
Gutter Cleaning: While cleaning the roof, also clear out gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage, especially during the heavy rains often experienced in Florida. This is typically a upgraded package plan for our clients
Landscaping Protection: If you're using any cleaning solutions, take measures to protect your landscaping from runoff. Wet down plants before and after cleaning to dilute any solution that may come in contact with them.
Post-Cleaning Inspection: Examine the roof for any areas that may need further attention, such as damaged shingles or tiles.
By following these guidelines and taking Florida's unique climate and conditions into account, we can clean your roof safely and effectively.
