When is your roof due for a cleaning? This article covers the price of roof cleaning, signs that your roof needs to be cleaned, and chemical agents used in roof cleaning. It also includes information on how the chemicals used in roof cleaning can damage wood shakes and shingles. Continue reading to learn more about roof cleaning and its benefits. Also, learn how to save money on roof cleaning by avoiding the expensive methods. And keep reading to find out how to protect your home from roof damage.
Cost of roof cleaning
The cost of roof cleaning depends on several factors, including the size of the roof, the amount of material and labour needed, and where you live in the UK. The larger the roof, the higher the price as the material and labour required to clean it is heavier. Larger roofs also require a lot of movement to clean, which can add to the cost of roof cleaning. To find out how much your roof will cost, you should get three or more estimates.
Signs that your roof needs to be cleaned
If you notice black streaks on your roof, you shouldn’t dismiss this as dirt. These dark vertical streaks are signs of algae or mold growth. The culprit is blue-green algae, which spreads by airborne spores. Algae feeds on moisture, destroying shingles and wood. If you notice black streaks on your roof, it’s time to clean it immediately to prevent costly damage.
Chemicals used in roof cleaning
While water alone can effectively clean roofs, the use of certain chemicals can make it more effective at removing stubborn stains. A chemical called cationic surfactant, which is charged positively, is particularly effective at removing tough stains. This chemical also has no residual effect, which makes it a good choice for cleaning difficult-to-remove stains. Other cleaning chemicals are algaecide, hydrochloric acid, and sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate. Although acid is the most powerful of these chemicals, it should be applied with caution and only by an experienced roof cleaner.
Damage to wood shakes and shingles
If you are considering repairing your roof, you need to know about the dangers of letting rain damage your wood shakes and shingles. Rain can cause significant damage to the roof because of the sensitivity of wood to moisture. When it is constantly wet, wood shakes and shingles can buckle, cup, or crack. In addition to water damage, wood shakes can also be affected by mold, white rot fungus, and brown rot fungus. Here are some of the most common causes of damage to wood shakes and shingles after roof cleaning:
Signs that you should hire a professional for roof cleaning
It may be time to hire a professional for roof cleaning, especially if the weather is bad or you’re too busy to clean your own roof. However, if you’re not sure how to go about cleaning your roof, there are several signs that indicate it’s time to do so. Bird poop can be especially problematic, and leaves, especially those that have become damp, can also cause damage to your roof. Moreover, algae and moss can grow on your roof, which can lead to premature roof replacement.