Roof Cleaning Summerville SC removes algae, mildew, lichen, moss, and oxidation on metal roofs. Regular roof cleaning can help extend the lifespan of shingles.
Many products can remove discoloration and stains from various surfaces, but not all are created equal. Some are less effective and require more frequent applications.
Chemical roof cleaning techniques are invaluable for maintaining your home’s exterior. Still, it is important that you and any contractors you hire have a good understanding of the benefits and considerations involved. Chemicals should always be used only when necessary and by dilution ratios and proper safety precautions. It’s also important to consider environmental concerns, as these chemicals can cause lasting damage if used incorrectly or if they run off into waterways and pollute ecosystems.
One of the most popular roof cleaning chemicals is chlorine bleach, commonly referred to as pool bleach. This is available at many hardware and home improvement stores in a variety of concentrations, typically between 3% and 6%. Professional cleaners will often purchase industrial grade bleach at a concentration of around 5.75%, which allows them to use a much higher volume for their cleaning solutions. This allows them to clean larger homes at a faster rate and reduces the time needed to re-rinse after cleaning.
Bleach is highly effective against moss, algae and lichen and can quickly be used to remove these unsightly growths from your roof. However, the chemicals in bleach are very harsh and can damage shingles, so it is important to only use this method when necessary. The best way to prevent the need for this type of chemical roof cleaning is to perform regular maintenance on your roof, including inspections and occasional rinsing.
Hydrogen peroxide is another chemical often used for a wide variety of cleaning applications. This product is mild enough to be safe for most materials and breaks down into water and oxygen, so it is considered environmentally friendly. It also has a strong fungicidal property, making it especially useful against fungi and lichen that grow on roofs. However, like sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide can corrode metals if it is left to stand for too long and should be rinsed thoroughly after application.
Sodium hydroxide, or caustic soda, is an alkaline substance that can be very effective when used for a short period with the proper dilution and washing conditions. It can quickly eliminate dirt, fungus and mould from the surface of your roof, and it is particularly effective against oily residues. However, if left to stand for too long it can weaken and destroy your roofing material, and it must be carefully rinsed afterwards to avoid harming surrounding vegetation.
Other roof cleaning chemicals include sodium hypochlorite, potassium hydroxide and sodium percarbonate. These chemicals have various advantages and disadvantages, but most are able to effectively eliminate stubborn stains and buildup without damaging the roofing materials. The most important thing to remember when using these products is that it’s essential to protect yourself, your crew and the environment by utilizing proper safety gear and proper dilution amounts to prevent chemical burns, skin irritation and excessive exposure to the harsh chemicals.
Chemical Roof Shingle Roof Cleaning
Until recently, roof shingles were exclusively made of asphalt. However, manufacturers have since added fiberglass, limestone and specialized paper to create modern shingles that are more durable than ever. These new shingles are also more attractive, with a richer appearance and increased lifespan. Unfortunately, these shingles can become stained by organic matter such as mold, mildew and lichens that are difficult to remove with standard water pressure washing alone. Luckily, there are professional roof cleaning services that can provide chemical treatment for the removal of these contaminants and other growths on your shingle roof.
Most commercial roof cleaners use some form of sodium hypochlorite or sodium hydroxide, which is the same chemical found in regular household bleach. Typically, this type of cleaner is applied at low pressure under the control of a trained person. However, this type of cleaner can damage shingles and other roofing materials as well as surrounding plant life and latex paint.
In addition, high concentrations of this cleaner can void the manufacturer’s warranty. For this reason, some roof cleaning contractors choose to utilize a more gentle approach to roof cleaning known as soft washing. Soft wash uses a combination of non-toxic chemicals that are mixed with water and gently applied to the surface of your roof. This type of cleaning solution is less invasive than standard water pressure washing and can be used to clean a variety of different surfaces including roofs, patios, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and decks.
One of the most popular non-toxic roof cleaning solutions is sodium percarbonate. Unlike sodium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite, this oxygen-based chemical solution does not require any rinse because it can stop its carbonated activity as soon as it comes into contact with water. It is a great option for asphalt shingle and wood shake roofs, and many roof cleaning contractors who specialize in soft washing opt to use this type of chemical.
When using any type of cleaner, it’s important to follow the instructions on the label. Improper use of any cleaner can lead to damage to your home’s exterior, as well as surrounding plants and trees. Additionally, careless application of cleaners can leave behind residual build-up that can make it more difficult to remove in the future. To avoid any potential issues, always hire a professional for all your home maintenance needs. A certified and experienced technician from a local company such as Flawless Exterior will understand the right way to clean your roof, without damaging it or voiding your manufacturer’s warranty. This includes a thorough inspection before beginning the process. In addition, they’ll know how to protect your landscaping and your home’s interior from damage during the cleaning process. This includes moving patio furniture, covering any plants near the house and tarping areas where necessary.
Eco-Friendly Roof Cleaning
Eco-friendly cleaning solutions can be effective against moss, mildew and algae staining, providing an alternative to harsh chemicals. Products such as Wash Safe use eco-safe ingredients to actively remove organic growth and are designed to be biodegradable within hours. These cleaners can also be used on a range of roof materials, reducing the risk of damage to the underlying structure. These cleaning solutions are a great option for homeowners prioritizing sustainability and the ecosystem surrounding their home.
In addition to using eco-friendly cleaners, regular sweeping and brushing can help keep your roof looking clean. By removing dirt and debris before it can settle, this prevents it from working its way through shingles and damaging the surface. Investing in a telescopic brush with a soft bristled head is a great choice for this, as it will not damage the underlying shingles and can be easily maneuvered across your roof.
Alternatively, an oxygen bleach mixture can be applied to dark stained areas and allowed to sit for 20 minutes before being rinsed with a garden hose. A nozzle setting of about three feet is recommended to avoid spraying down the plant or home exterior, minimizing the potential for re-staining. It is best to apply the cleaner on dry, sunny days to ensure a successful and quick outcome.
As well as being environmentally friendly, the process of soft washing also eliminates the need for high pressure power washing. This can dislodge granules from your roof and damage the integrity of the underlying surface, causing it to weaken over time. Instead, soft wash combines low pressure with a specialist cleaning solution to gently yet thoroughly remove moss, algae and lichen.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly roof cleaning service, look for one that employs a trained professional to handle the job and is insured against any damages caused during the process. This will provide you with peace of mind and allow you to focus on other aspects of your property.
A professional should also be able to offer additional services, such as gutter and window cleaning. This can be especially beneficial when your roof is particularly dirty and soiled, as it can be difficult to reach all of the nooks and crannies. Additionally, a professional will be able to remove any clogged drains that may require cleaning. These services can make a big difference to the overall appearance of your home.