There is both science and engineering that go into the construction of your home’s roof. It is the first defense in protecting property and contents and the most vulnerable to the elements. Despite playing a major role in completing the building envelope, the roof is also one aspect of the home’s construction that tends to get overlooked. There are, though, certain signs you can look for that indicate when it is a good time to have your roof cleaned.
Growth
Moisture is the primary undoing of the structural integrity of your roof. When left to its own devices, moisture promotes the growth of moss, lichen, and black algae. Depending on your roof's material construct, you may find that moss and lichen root into shingles, undermining the protective barrier. Roots create channels for water to penetrate. Over time, leaks can develop, and black algae can thrive leaving unsightly black streaks. This degree of moisture damage can drastically reduce the lifespan of your roof.
Nature’s Debris
Depending on the landscaping around your home, the weather can end up depositing the debris from nature upon your roof. Given the way the roof tends to be taken for granted, debris can collect and rest upon your roof long enough to create an inviting environment for bacterial growth where other organisms can also thrive.
Both wind and rain will deposit debris that can also clog up your gutters, which may also cause roof damage. The gutters must be kept clear to allow the water to be channeled from the roof down and away from the structure. Clogged gutters participate in water damage, rotting fascia boards and soffits, which can lead to roof deck damage.
Talk to a Roofer
Roofing materials have quickly expanded to include new styles, materials, colors and a wide range of attachments from solar panels to media antennae. Some roofs are even used to harvest water.
At any point that you have concerns about the condition of your roof, a roofing contractor who specializes in roof cleaning will know the best method of approach after a thorough assessment of your roof. They can check the pointing and capping, the gutters, flashings, and skylights as well as look for signs of cracked or broken tiles. They will also know the best pressure washing for your particular roof.
Choose the Chemicals to Use on Your Roof
Even ammonia and bleach that one might think are simple solutions for cleaning must be considered for their toxicity. Overuse of certain antibacterials and disinfectants can contribute to antibiotic-resistant bacterial growth. Many of the generally accepted cleaners can present a threat to the nervous system, kidneys, and liver.
Phosphates pose a threat to aquatic life and phthalates can disrupt hormones due to their complex synthetic ingredients. You can see why it is better to leave this cleaning to the professionals, aside from the risk of falling off the roof if you try to do it yourself while the surfaces are wet.
Aside from plant and pet protection, there are valuable and vulnerable areas of your roof that will need to be protected before washing. A soft wash solution may be used to prevent damage to an expensive color membrane, should that be an aspect of your roof's construction. A chemical is applied and allowed to activate with further applications as needed. With the correct chemicals and pressure applied, the qualified roofer will rinse away the mold, algae, dirt, debris, tannins and lichen.
Keep a careful eye on the appearance of your roof so you can count on its continued capability to shield and protect the dwelling below. Be mindful of the fact that while the roof is there protecting you year-round, you must protect your roof by ensuring it receives a proper cleaning whenever it needs it. These small measures are what saves you from the great expense of roof repair or replacement from simple neglect.
