When was the last time you really looked at your home’s roof? It may be time to step outside and check on its condition. After a long winter, there’s a good chance your roof may have developed staining, mildew, pockets of debris from storms like leaves or twigs, etc.
These are unsightly and can cause expensive problems down the line if they aren’t taken care of. Your roof is at the front lines, protecting you and your home from the elements. Here are five reasons to consider getting a professional pressure washing:
The Problem With DIY Roof Pressure Washing
You may be tempted to clean your roof by yourself. In fact, some jobs like cleaning gutters and removing wayward basketballs are easy to DIY. However, there’s a lot more to pressure washing than putting your thumb over the hose and aiming the stream at the roof. That’s a great way to waste time and water without accomplishing much. Real pressure washing uses specialized equipment. It also takes training to learn how to clean the roof without damaging it.
Some Roof Pressure Washing Jobs Are Complicated
Some houses have a little more ‘character’ than others. This could include steeply sloped roofs, awkward corners, and hard to reach nooks and crannies. The pros can handle this job much faster and more effectively than a DIY-er. You could spend a couple of days trying to get the job done right, or you can give a professional cleaning service a call and they’ll get it done fast.
Chemical Roof Cleaning vs Roof Pressure Washing
There are two common ways to clean a roof: chemicals and pressure washing. During chemical cleaning, substances are applied to the roof and then rinsed off. These help lift stubborn stains and kill roof algae. However, chemical cleaning may not be as safe as pressure washing. Those chemicals can run into the landscape or water system, causing problems. Meanwhile, during roof pressure washing, water is put under high pressure. It blasts away mold and dirt, leaving the roof underneath intact. This method may not be suitable for all homes; the pros will know when to use this technique.
The Dangers of Roof Algae
Roof algae is one of the most unsightly and stubborn problems your home can develop. It doesn’t just look bad. These dark streaks can damage your roof, cutting its lifespan in half. Under some conditions, the algae may even spread to other areas of the home. This is particularly a problem if it has had time to lift up roof shingles. The professionals know how to blast away algae without damaging your roof.
The Value of Expertise
Here’s one final advantage of professional pressure washing that you may not have thought of: their experience. The pros have worked with hundreds of roofs in all kinds of condition. They’ll be up there in great position to spot developing problems, and they can give you a head’s up that your home needs maintenance. Spending a little here might save you big in emergency roof repairs down the line.
