Is It Necessary to Clean Your Roof? And if So, How?

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 believe that it is unnecessary to invest in. 

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 strain faster than other areas of your home. Roofing experts can determine the state of your roof, and what type of cleaning it may need. 

Roofs are more susceptible to moss, mildew, fungus, algae, or lichen. Many times, when a roof looks “dirty” and there are black streaks, it is normally algae that is growing. 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 bacteria such as moss or lichen. Moss is extremely dangerous because it requires a significant amount of water to survive, which then traps all of the humidity and eventually leaks into your attic and ceilings. Lichen can also be very serious and damaging to your roof because it can stick to the shingles and, when cleaned off, leads to holes and gaps. 

Having a clean roof can increase your property’s value and appeal to potential buyers. Having an alga covered/dirty roof can cause buyers to take precautions and think your home is at risk. Not only will it increase value, but having a clean roof is much more eye-catching and could draw in more potential buyers. It is much less expensive to have your roof cleaned than it is replaced. Replacing a roof can cost thousands of dollars which may be a deal breaker for a potential buyer. 

Roofs are normally cleaned with a bleach solution focused on killing and removing bad bacteria. Be sure to call a professional because determining the type of roof and what needs to be done to it can get tricky. After the bleach solution has sat on the surface for up to 20 minutes, it can be washed away with clean water. Rain will also help wash away the rest of the algae and bacteria. 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 damage. Keeping your roof clean can increase the worth and longevity of your home. If you are looking for a professional to inspect and help with cleaning your roof, give us a call at (813) 643-8333 or click the link below to request a free quote.