Keeping your roof clean is the single most important thing you can do to ward off unnecessary damage. Damage to your roof will eventually lead to expensive repairs or even replacement. In this blog post, we’re going to discuss why you should keep your roof clean and the many benefits of soft wash roof cleaning.
What causes those unsightly roof stains?
Have you ever wondered what those unsightly stains on your roof are from? Roof stains are typically caused by different types of algae, lichens, fungi, and moss. These types of organisms are highly damaging to our roofs – usually causing damage well before it catches our eye. These types of organisms feed off roof shingles, drastically reducing their life expectancy.
Algae retains moisture, and damp areas filled with moisture are breeding grounds for moss, lichens, and fungi to grow. Lichens grow on top of roof shingles, setting down roots and feeding off the limestone of your roof. Whereas moss grows underneath the lips of your roof shingles, eventually lifting them up. Over time, rain and snow get trapped underneath those lifted roof shingles, potentially causing severe water damage.
This is why roof cleaning is so important; it not only extends the life of your roof, but it also greatly improves its appearance. An unclean roof can bring on a whole host of unwanted (and expensive) problems, not to mention it’s also an eyesore. Keep your roof clean and you’ll greatly reduce the chance of any major roof damage.
How does soft wash roof cleaning work?
At Kleen Roofs, we’re able to remove roof stains with just one cleaning at a fraction of the cost of a full-roof replacement. We use a certified soft wash process that safely cleans the roof while effectively removing any unwanted growth.
No harsh chemicals are used – we treat your roof with gentle cleaning agents only. Our cleaning solutions may be gentle, but they pack a big punch when it comes to roof cleaning. High-pressure wash systems aren’t needed with soft washing. Soft wash cleaning agents do all the work for you; eliminating the need for intense and potentially damaging high-pressure water systems.
You may think soft wash cleaning sounds great and all, but what are the benefits to this method? Why should you choose soft washing over traditional pressure washing? We’ll tell you:
- Soft washing doesn’t damage or penetrate roof shingles like pressure washing.
- Non-toxic, gentle cleaning agents result in a cleaner end product.
- Cost-effective option due to shorter setup and labor times.
- Algae, mold, mildew and other fungi are killed at a molecular level – providing longer lasting results.
- Soft washing both cleans and disinfects your roof, drastically improving its appearance.
- Soft washing requires less water than high-pressure washing.
There are many benefits to soft washing – the list above highlights some of the key benefits we like to share with our customers.
When is it time to schedule a roof cleaning?
The black stains you see on your roof are causing more problems than just ugly shingles. Left untreated, these stains will begin to hold on to moisture, allowing lichen and moss to start growing. These invasive species are aggressive and will begin to eat away at your roof which can lead to early failure of your shingles.
So, it’s best to schedule a roof cleaning as soon as you notice black stains on your roof. Unfortunately, if you wait too long, roof damage can be irreversible, meaning you may have to look into repair or replacement options.
The great thing about soft washing is that it costs much less than replacing your roof. At Kleen Roofs, we guarantee results that last for three years. However, we find some roofs can go five to seven years before anything starts to grow again. This typically depends on the surrounding environment and climate.
When hiring a roof cleaning company, be sure to ask the following questions:
- Do you have references?
- How long have you been in business?
- Are you insured?
- Do you offer soft wash roof cleaning, or only pressure washing?
Unfortunately, many exterior cleaning companies will say they offer soft wash roof cleaning, when they actually only offer pressure washing. Be sure to clarify this with the company you’re getting a quote from. Soft washing will provide you with a cleaner, longer-lasting end result. Asking questions is important to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth!
For more information on soft wash roof cleaning, give us a call! You can also explore our website to learn more about the different types of exterior cleaning we provide. Stay tuned for future blog posts!