Roof staining organisms like algae, moss, and lichens feed on the organic material in the shingles. In other words, these organisms eat your roof. The longer they remain untreated; the more damage they’re likely to cause.
Homeowners often see conflicting and confusing information when reading about roof cleaning for nasty stains. To assist homeowners in this process so they can make informed decisions on the roof cleaning procedure to use, this article highlights the differences between all three main roof cleaning techniques.
Knowing all pros and cons of these three main kinds of roof cleaning services indicates that homeowners will be prepared to ask all the right questions and make informed decisions for their roof cleaning projects.
They include the Eco-friendly, low pressure and non-bleach roof cleaning methods.
1. Eco-friendly roof cleaning
Roof cleaning technicians that use this method make use of high-grade eco-friendly cleaning products that don’t contain toxic chemicals like phosphates, chlorine bleach, or other chemicals that kill vegetation and also pollute waterways. The method also uses a rinsing system of low-pressure, and avoids the use of high-pressure brushing or scrubbing.
When hiring a roof cleaning contractor who makes use of this cleaning method, select one who guarantees that lichens, algae, and moss will be completely eradicated before they leave your property. Also, look for a cleaning contractor who offers yearly roof stain prevention programs.
2. The chlorine bleach cleaning method
Some roof cleaning contractors use sodium hypochlorite or chlorine bleach and mix it in very high concentrations with chemicals like trisodium phosphate or TSP.
They spray this concentrate on the roof and allow it to dry and re-apply it severally as needed. Stains and lichens or moss that does not come off immediately after the treatment may sooner or later come off with the rain in months to come.
The cleaning contractors who use this chlorine-bleach usually don’t divulge or advertise that they use this chemical. If they have to wet down the plants before, or after the treatment or even use a runoff recovery method or cover the plants during the cleaning process, these are signs that harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach are being used. Be sure to check.
3. High-pressure power washing technique
Some roof cleaning contractors make use of high-pressure power washing techniques to try to remove nasty roof stains.
If you aren’t sure if a contractor will use this high-pressure method, ask them to hold their hand under the spray and apply it. If they can’t do it, then the pressure is obviously too high and may damage your shingles.
Removing unsightly roof stains improve a property’s curb appeal, and the roof will be refurbished and taken its natural and energy efficient state. When a roof is clean, it is healthy and would last for a long time.