Your roof acts as the main barrier between the outside environment and your home, so it is imperative to ensure that it is clean and protected. When your roof is not adequately protected and cleaned regularly, it can collect dirt, fungus, and debris, which can expose your home to numerous problems. Many homeowners do not know the benefits of roof cleaning and mistakenly believe that it is an unnecessary expense.
Why Roof Cleaning is Essential
One of a home’s most important features is its roof. A roof serves as an environmental and weatherproof cover to protect your house. It is the most exposed part of the house to outdoor conditions, which means it may begin to wear and experience strain faster than other areas of your home. Roofing experts can determine the exact state of your roof and what specific type of cleaning it may need.
The Dangers of Algae, Moss, and Lichen
Roofs are highly susceptible to moss, mildew, fungus, algae, or lichen. Many times, when a roof looks “dirty” and there are black streaks, it is actually algae that is growing.
- Algae: Algae can cause your roof to absorb heat, making it very difficult to keep your home cool when it is warm outside. Algae can also lead to much more harmful organic growth, such as moss or lichen.
- Moss: Moss is extremely dangerous because it requires a significant amount of water to survive. It traps all of the humidity against your shingles, which eventually rots the material and leaks into your attic and ceilings.
- Lichen: Lichen can also be very serious and damaging to your roof because it physically bonds to the shingles. When it is finally cleaned off or ripped away, it often leaves behind small holes, gaps, and permanent damage.
Boosting Property Value and Curb Appeal
Having a clean roof can significantly increase your property’s value and appeal to potential buyers. Having an algae-covered or dirty roof can cause buyers to take precautions and assume your home is at risk of interior water damage. Not only will cleaning it increase your home’s value, but having a spotless roof is much more eye-catching and can draw in more potential buyers.
Furthermore, it is much less expensive to have your roof routinely cleaned than it is to have it replaced prematurely. Replacing a roof can cost thousands of dollars, which is a major deal-breaker for a potential buyer during an inspection.
How Are Roofs Cleaned?
Roofs are normally cleaned with a specialized bleach or soft-wash solution focused on killing and removing harmful bacteria and organic growth without damaging the shingles.
Be sure to call a professional because determining the type of roof and the exact chemical mixture it requires can get tricky. High-pressure washing can actually destroy your roof, so a soft-wash approach is critical. After the cleaning solution has sat on the surface for up to 20 minutes to kill the roots, it can be gently washed away with clean water. Subsequent rain will also help wash away the rest of the dead algae and bacteria over time.
Schedule Your Yearly Roof Maintenance
It is advised that your roof gets inspected and cleaned every year to make sure it stays in good condition. Yearly maintenance of your roof can go a long way in preserving it and protecting your home from structural damage. Keeping your roof clean will increase both the worth and longevity of your home.
If you are looking for a professional to inspect and help with cleaning your roof safely, give us a call at (813) 643-8333 or contact us to request a free quote today.
