What is the best way to clean a roof?

Many homeowners wonder, “What is the best way to clean a roof?” While hiring a reputable professional is always the safest and most efficient approach, particularly for complex roof types or significant moss infestations, a DIY approach is possible for some simpler situations. However, proceed with extreme caution – roof cleaning carries inherent risks.

Assessing the Risks of Roof Cleaning

 Before you even consider climbing onto your roof, carefully evaluate the challenges. Roof height (two, three, or four stories?), steepness, and the roof’s surface material all significantly impact safety. Asphalt shingle roofs generally offer more traction than cedar shake, cement tile, or metal roofs. For complex or high-risk roofs, professional help is strongly recommended.

Safe Roof Access

If you decide to proceed, proper safety measures are paramount. Use a ladder that extends at least three feet beyond the roof’s edge and securely fasten it to prevent movement. Investing in a harness and fall protection equipment from a hardware store is essential. A single slip can have devastating consequences. Always stay tied off.

Cleaning Loose Debris From Roof

Begin by removing loose debris like leaves and pine needles. An electric leaf blower is ideal due to its lightweight design, ease of handling, and sufficient power. Work on a dry roof to minimize weight and cleaning time. Afterward, clean gutters. While a blower might seem convenient, hand-cleaning from a ladder is safer and more effective, preventing debris from splattering onto other surfaces.

Moss and Algae Removal

For moss and algae, a zinc sulfate-based product (often found in green containers at hardware stores) is effective. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Never scrape or brush moss from shingles, as this damages the roofing material and voids warranties. If you hire a professional, ensure they don’t employ these damaging techniques.

A gentler approach involves a bleach-based soft wash solution (one part bleach, one part water). Apply with a pump sprayer, let it sit for 20 minutes, and rinse with a garden hose. Dead moss will typically dissolve over several weeks. For severe moss build-up, repeat the process. A leaf blower can help remove loosened moss, but some stubborn patches may require more time. For additional guidance on moss removal from roof manufacturers, consult [insert relevant link here].

In short: While you can clean your roof yourself, hiring a professional is often the best way to clean a roof, ensuring both safety and the longevity of your roofing system. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.

Roof Cleaning With Bleach

Another wise option for moss removal is to make your own soft wash solution to kill roof moss. The most common and recommended method from roof manufactureres is to use a bleach based soft wash solution. You can use a pump sprayer, and make a solution with one part household bleach, and one part water. Spray this solution onto the roof where moss is present. It will change the color of the moss immediately and usually kill 100% of the moss.

Allow the moss to soak in the soft wash solution for 20 minutes and then risnse off the soft wash solution with a garden hose. Keep in mind you are not immediately removing the dead moss. Typically after a few weeks the moss will start to dissolve with weather. For those roof with severe moss build up you may want to apply the soft wash a few more times. You can also use a blower to remove the dead moss, however some moss is stubburn. It may just take time to fully release.  For more information from roof manufactures on how to remove moss visit this site. 

If you are looking for a pro, and are located in Western Washington give Chinook Services a call or email:

Chinook Services

12811 8th Ave W C-101, Everett, WA 98204

(425) 290-8635

Sales@Chinookservices.com

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