Published on November 23rd, 2022

Last updated on February 3rd, 2023

How To Clean Roof In 7 Efficient Steps: Proven DIY

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
man cleaning roof tile

The interior of your home is undoubtedly an important thing that everyone will pay attention to. However, what about the exterior? Your street walls, lawn as well as roof matter too. They must also get care, regular cleaning and be in good condition.

Today we will tell you about roof cleaning. A clean roof looks beautiful and shows that you are a great owner and that your home can serve you for many years to come without damage or problems.

However, roof cleaning is a challenging process. To do this, it is necessary to prepare precautions, choose the right cleaning chemicals and find some time for the roof cleaning procedure. Read our article and learn how to follow each step correctly so that your roof remains perfect and practical.

Precautions Before Roof Cleaning 

roof cleaning craftman

Cleaning your roof can be a daunting task. It’s essential to take the proper precautions before starting the job to ensure your safety and the longevity of your roof. In this block, we’ll review what you need to do before cleaning your roof:

  1. Inspect your roof for any damage. Look for loose or missing shingles, cracks, or other signs of wear and tear. If you find any damage, repair it before proceeding with the cleaning process. 
  2. Ensure your ladder is in good condition and tall enough to reach the highest point of your roof. It’s also a good idea to have someone hold the ladder while you’re on it, just in case. 
  3. Wear protective clothing. Roof washing can be messy, so make sure you wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Closed-toed shoes are also a must to protect your feet from sharp objects. 
  4. Be careful when walking on the roof. Avoid walking in wet areas, and watch out for loose gravel or nails that could cause you to slip or fall. If possible, use a piece of plywood or another sturdy object to create a makeshift walkway. 
  5. Work on a cool, cloudy day if possible. Hot weather can cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leading to streaks or patches on the roof. But don’t work after or during rain as it can be slippery.
  6. One of the most important points will be working with a partner. Try to clean your roof while your wife is at home. Or ask your friend or relative to help you at a convenient time for them. This will help you avoid injury or emergency calls if your ladder falls or chemicals get on your skin.

Roof Tile Cleaning 

man cleaning roof shingles

Once you understand how to act during the cleaning process, you can proceed to the procedure itself. You can do all work will in 7 simple steps:

  1. First, you need to climb onto the roof. To do this, use the ladder. Put a ladder against the wall where you want to climb. You can also work on it without going up to the roof, in case you can physically do it.
  2. If you have such an opportunity, divide your roof into several sections. Try to wash your roof so that you move from the central part of the surface to the edges. This way, all the water and chemicals will run down, and you won’t have to walk on the wet roof while tile cleaning.
  3. Before applying the roof cleaner, remove all excess debris. To do this, use a pressure washer. Set it to low pressure first and wash all debris off the roof. Then let your roof dry completely. Only then can you apply the solution.
  4. Add the chemical to your pressure washer according to the directions in the instructions and apply it to the roof surface. Gradually move from one roof section to another, and do not rush. Also, pay attention to the choice of product. See that the package says “anti-moss”, “fungicide”, “moss killer”, and so on.
  5. After applying the cleaning solution, you need to let your roof rest. This usually takes a few minutes, as the product is quickly absorbed into the surface. However, each case is unique, and you wait as long as noted on your chemical packaging.
  6. Now, you can wash off your solution. Increase the pressure washer to higher mode and wash all dirt and grout off your roof. Proceed in the same way as you did in the second step.
  7. Inspect your work once you’re done to make sure you got all the spots. If everything looks good, you’re all set! Your roof should now be clean and protected from the elements for years.

Roof Care

cleaning roof with water

A clean roof is a happy roof. But once you’ve given your roof the deep clean it deserves, how do you ensure it stays in tip-top shape? Caring for your roof after washing is just as important as the cleaning itself. Here are four tips to help you keep your roof in good condition long after the cleaners have left.

Inspect your gutters and downspoutsYour gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in keeping your roof healthy. They channel water away from your roof and home, preventing water damage and leaks. So, it’s essential to make sure they’re clean and in good working order. After your roof shingles cleaning procedure, take a walk around your home and inspect your gutters and downspouts. If you see any leaves, twigs, or other debris, remove them. And if you notice any cracks or damage, repair them right away.
Trim trees and shrubs near your homeOverhanging branches can damage your roof by scratching or denting the surface when they blow in the wind. They can also clog your gutters and downspouts, leading to water damage. To prevent these problems, trim branches that hang over or near your roof.
Seal any cracks or holes in your roofCracks, and holes in your roof provide an easy way for water to get into your home, which can lead to leaks and water damage. So, it’s vital to seal any cracks or holes you see in your roof. You can use caulking or sealant to fill small cracks and holes, but larger ones must be patched with flashing or repairs.
Inspect your roof regularlyIt’s best to inspect your roof at least once a year to look for signs of wear and tear. But if you live in an area with severe weather conditions, you may need to inspect it more often. During an inspection, look for cracked or missing shingles, loose nails, rust spots on metal surfaces, and any other signs of damage. If you find any problems, repair them immediately to prevent further damage.

Bottom Line

These are essential tips on how to perform roof shingle cleaning efficiently. Make sure to follow these steps, and you will quickly and easily be able to clean your roof without any issues. Remember that safety should always be your number one priority when working on any home improvement project. If you have any questions or concerns, consult a professional before beginning any work on your roof.

FAQ

Can I clean my roof myself?

Yes, you can clean your roof yourself, but it is essential to follow the proper steps safely and effectively. Make sure to consult a professional if you have questions or concerns before beginning work on your roof.

How often should I clean my roof?

You should clean your roof at least once per year to prevent any build-up of dirt, debris, and other materials that could damage your roof.

What are common cleaning products for roof cleaning?

There are a variety of different cleaning products that can be used on roofs, depending on the type of material that your roof consists of. Always consult a professional before using any cleaning product on your roof to ensure that it will not damage the roofing material.

What are safety precautions when cleaning a roof?

Some standard safety precautions are great when cleaning a roof include wearing protective clothing, such as gloves and goggles, and avoiding walking on wet or slippery areas. Always consult with a professional before beginning any work on your roof.