Roof Cleaning – Power Washing versus Soft Washing
For many years’ contractors have been having long debates concerning the correct way to go about roof cleaning. The safe and proper roof cleaning method to clean a domestic roof has also been debated by many construction trade associations. Roof cleaning is vital to preserve the appearance of your home and in many cases simply cleaning a roof has actual increase the value of many properties.
Some roofing trade associations caution all homeowner from allowing their roof to be cleaned with high-pressure water washer and condemn their use for removing algae and black streaks from roofs on the grounds that they may cause more damage than they will do good
It is my own opinion as a home watch professional that they are well justified in their condemnation. In most cases utilizing a high-pressure water washer for roof cleaning is not only dangerous to the tiles and slates; it most instances such extreme high pressure can also compromise the integrity of the roof structure. And only a non-pressure or at best a low-pressure cleaning method should be applied to remove environmental stains and debris such as:
- Mold
- Moss
- Alga
Fortunately, some manufactures have listened to those who have safety concerns regarding high pressure washing devices and have been hard at work designing what is now called “soft washer roof cleaning” for contractors and homeowner.
They use a special blend of eco-friendly algae and moss neutralizers, mild surfactants and bio degradable detergents that are capable of cleaning the most horrendously stained roofs and can gently restore practically any roof to an almost like new appearance, all without the slightest compromise to the integrity of the roof structure or damage to the environment.
If you do opt to have your roof cleaned by a “soft roof cleaning” contractor, we have prepared a few tips that should make the job run smoothly:
- Never allow any contractor to use a high-pressure washer on your roof. (Even some “soft roof washing” companies sometimes opt to use high pressure washers for small periods of time on certain areas of roofs. The fact is: it’s either a soft wash or it’s a high-pressure wash there are no in-betweens)
- Just like hiring any contractor to do work around your home you should always ask for at least three references of previously satisfied customers. Contractors always enjoy boasting about their happy customs so if a contractor is unable to show you citations from previous clients, the likely hood is they don’t have any.
- Never hire a contractor who does not have adequate insurance and particularly “roof cleaning insurance”. Most pressure washing services and cleaning companies will usually have adequate insurance cover for general cleaning. However, because the liability is far greater, roof cleaning is not always covered in traditional low-level cleaning insurance subsequently; nearly all insurance companies require additional fees for high level cleaning. So, when you check the insurance details of contractors tendering for work make sure they apply to roof cleaning.
What is Roof Soft Washing?
Soft washing is a better alternate to standard pressure washing.
Our cleansing formula established by SoftWash Systems makes use of water-based, eco-friendly chemicals to break down dirt and crud, eliminate bug nests and webs. In addition, the system kills mold, mildew, algae and also microorganisms on your roofing system as well as various other surfaces — leaving them clean as well as sterilized.
Soft washing removes the microbes that create staining while power washing simply cleans off the surface area layer. Furthermore, soft washing does not make use of harmful high pressure, unlike pressure washing. Soft washing treatments last far longer compared to power washing treatments.
If you’re searching for a way to get rid of what’s expanding externally on your roofing system, deck or fence, break the cycle of continuous power washing and also make use of a remedy that treats the issue like a pest, not a stain.
What is Roof Sealing?
Sealing your tile roof, pavers, driveway, dock or pool deck will provide you and your home with countless benefits. By sealing these surfaces, you will protect them from potential harm. The sealing process eliminates potential spots for algae, mold, and mildew growth on your roof and other sealed surfaces. When you seal your tile roof or other areas you prevent any color fading while maintaining the original look. After you seal your area, the color stays as beautiful as it was the day your home was built.
When you seal these surfaces you are also extending the lifespan of your roof and other applied areas by decades. The Sealing process helps to protect your home from potentially costly water damage. Protecting your home with a quality sealant will help protect your home for years to come.
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Nicholas Lemmon is the founder of Shield Home Watch in Bradenton, FL, and a certified project management professional with over a decade of operational leadership experience. With a background in healthcare, real estate, and property oversight, Nicholas specializes in protecting high-value homes through proactive home watch, concierge, and commercial property services. He is committed to delivering peace of mind to clients across Manatee and Sarasota Counties through a blend of personalized care and smart technology. Accredited member of the National Home Watch Association.