Power Washing Genie provides expert roof cleaning services in Vineland, NJ and surrounding areas. Your roof is a vital part of your home because it protects the rest of the structure. It often takes a beating during storms or extreme weather conditions, but you can prolong its life by ensuring that it’s properly maintained. Part of this maintenance includes professional pressure washing services to clean away all dirt, grime, stains, and debris.
How to Clean Different Types of Roofs
Roofs can come in a variety of forms and materials, and not all cleaning methods work for all of them. Tailor your approach according to your roof type to prevent damage and ensure proper maintenance.
Asphalt Shingles
While asphalt shingles are low maintenance, there are a few methods to stay away from when cleaning them. Pressure washing is best left in the hands of professionals, as the strong force of the water can knock the shingles loose. Harsh products like bleach must also be avoided as it can cause deterioration and discoloration. Instead, use gentle cleaning products along with a garden hose fitted with a sprayer.
Clay and Concrete Tile
Like asphalt, clay and concrete tiles can suffer damages when harsh cleaning products are used. This type of material is also delicate and can fracture easily when pressure is applied.
To clean clay and concrete tile roofs, use gentle cleaning products and low-pressure water. Soft washing is recommended. You may also spot efflorescence (chalk-like substances) forming. To get rid of this, use a clean dry cloth to wipe them away.
Wood or Cedar Shake
Pressure washing is a method best avoided when it comes to wood shakes. If it’s necessary, leave it in the hands of experienced professionals. Power Washing Genie uses a soft washing approach for gentle yet effective cleaning.
Refrain from using harsh chemicals like ammonia and bleach as these can cause discoloration. A vinegar and water solution can get rid of moss and lichen, while regular tree trimming can prevent debris accumulation. Proper ventilation is equally essential, so gutters and downspouts should also remain clean and unclogged.
Slate Shingle
Like wood shakes and shingles, slate shingles can experience discoloration when harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach and ammonia come into contact with them. High-pressure water is also not advised, as the force of the water can damage the shingles and cause leaks. Instead, use a gentle cleaning solution coupled with low-pressure water to clean slate shingle roofs.
Metal
Rust is a metal roof’s number one enemy. Use a rust remover or turn to common household items to clear rust from your roof. Lemon juice, baking soda, and vinegar are all good alternatives.
It is recommended to rinse it off with pressurized water (1,500 PSI) and a 25- or 40-degree nozzle. To maintain a metal roof and prevent rust from forming, apply a protective coating or consider switching to a stainless steel material.
Maintain Your Roof with Expert Cleaning Services
If you fail to regularly clean your roof, the following problems can occur:
Water usually flows through your home’s gutter system, but sometimes rain can pool in areas on your roof, which results in the growth of mold, mildew, and algae. These contaminants are unattractive, but can also harm your roof or gutter system and damage any underlying areas.
Without proper roof cleanings, contaminants will do damage to the shingles or metal. When this happens, they will be less effective in keeping out rain. Plus, your insulation will suffer, which can possibly lead to a much higher than usual energy bill.
Contaminants can spread to the vents and other openings in the roof, and gain entrance into your home. This can reduce the air quality in your home and cause you and your family to get sick.
Failing to take care of your roof reduces its lifespan and will cost you a ton of money in the long run. Perform a regular pressure washing on your roof to avoid these common pitfalls.
Common Contaminants on Roofs
Regular cleaning and maintenance is required to stave off contaminants on roofing, such as:
Algae
When algae forms and remains on roofs, it can eat away the filler and loosen the shingles. With soft washing, Power Washing Genie can effectively remove algae from all roof materials.
Moss
When allowed to grow, moss roots can reach all the way inside the roof and damage shingles. Apart from that, moss also ages the appearance of your roof.
Lichen
Lichen consists of algae and fungus. While it doesn’t retain moisture, it is an acidic substance that can damage roof shingles.
Learn More About Our Professional Roof Cleaning Services
If you are in need of pressure washing services in the greater Vineland area, go with the local company you can trust. At Power Washing Genie, we are a local and fully insured company, so we take the time to ensure that your Vineland roof is at its best. When you partner with us, you can expect the following:
- Inspections before the start of every roof cleaning
- At least two technicians per job for safety purposes
- Completed Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) form before every job
- Expert use of ladders and lifts to clean hard-to-reach areas
- Personal protective equipment such as safety harnesses and tether ropes
- Eco-friendly proprietary cleaning solutions more effective than most in the market
