Your home’s roof provides the entire residence with protection from the elements. It also enhances your curb appeal and can be a part of your house’s inviting impression to friends, family, and guests. However, your roof can accumulate debris over time that diminishes its appearance. Moss, dirt, leaves, and algae can also result in damage to this component of your home. Routine cleaning can prolong the lifespan of your roof and maintain its integrity, but you need to make sure this is done safely.
Conduct an Assessment
Inspect the roof before you do anything else. Check for cracks, missing shingles, and other issues that might actually get worse during a roof cleaning. Damaged, steep, and high roofs might be candidates for professional services instead of a DIY project. Any signs of structural instability warrant an expert consultation.
Plan for Safety
You need to plan for safety and effectiveness if you clean your own roof. Start with a sturdy ladder and a pair of slip-resistant shoes. You also need to wear gloves and a safety harness. Make sure there’s stable ground for the ladder. Secure it in position before you climb it. Pick a dry, clear day to work so that there aren’t any slipping hazards. Never walk on a slick or wet roof. Ensure someone is always nearby to help out if there’s an emergency.
Prepare for Effectiveness
To clean your roof, you’ll need a soft-bristle brush and either a pressure washer on a low setting or a garden hose and sprayer attachment. Don’t use harsh chemicals that might hurt your roof or the surrounding landscaping in your yard. A DIY mixture of bleach, detergent, and water or a nontoxic roof cleaner should suffice. Start by clearing off twigs, leaves, and other debris. A leaf blower or your brush should prevent the shingles from getting scratched.
Do the Cleaning
Use a sprayer to distribute even cleaning solution coatings across your roof. Start at the top before you work your way down. Letting the solution run off naturally reduces the risk of damage. Give the solution 20 minutes to sit so that it can break down grime and stains, but don’t let it dry entirely on the roof. Rinse off the solution thoroughly but at low pressure to avoid hurting the shingles. Again, work top-down so that water doesn’t seep underneath the shingles.
Tackle the Challenge
The thought of cleaning your roof can be very intimidating, but you need to make sure someone tackles it effectively. You can enjoy a clean roof that keeps protecting your home while also securing your long-term investment. If you do this yourself, do so with preparation, the right tools, and the best safety precautions. Alternatively, rely on a professional if you’re not confident or comfortable going up there. If you live in Zachary, LA, reach out to Stricklin & Porter for quality roofing services.
