Should You Pressure Wash A Roof?

Removing moss, algae, and streaks from your roof is extremely important in extending its lifespan, but you should always proceed with caution. Using a high pressure to wash your roof can cause structural damage to the shingles, so it is never advised to pressure wash a standard roof. In this post, we will give you all the information you need to make the best decision for treating your roof. 

You Should Not Pressure Wash A Roof 

Pressure washing your roof is dangerous for several reasons. While you want to make sure that you are keeping your roof protected, you should always be keeping your own safety in mind as well. As previously stated, using a higher pressure when washing a roof can cause structural damage. With structural damage comes premature replacement, which is precisely what you are trying to avoid when washing the roof.  

Additionally, attempting to pressure wash a roof can be very risky. Whether you are going to attempt to wash it from a ladder or walk around on the roof, using high-powered machinery on heights is extremely dangerous and not advisable. Simply put, do not pressure wash your roof. 

You Should Soft Wash A Roof 

The best method for removing moss, algae, and black streaks (Gloeocapsa magma) from your roof is a soft wash method. Soft washing relies on an application of cleansers to remove these contaminants and is followed by a very light rinse. With this process, moss will take some time to fall off since the roots need to release themselves from the shingles naturally.  

Soft washing your roof is also great for making sure that everything remains structurally sound. By removing the surface contaminants and making sure the shingles are left completely intact, you will extend your roof’s lifespan.  

Things to Consider Before Soft Washing 

Here are some things to look at before moving forward with having your roof soft washed: 

  • Soft washing is best for standard roofs with asphalt shingles. Slate roofs can be soft washed as well, but keep in mind that cleansers may cause discoloration to copper gutters. 
  • Since soft washing is very different from pressure washing, you should hire a professional company to take care of it. Making sure that everything is done safely and effectively is crucial when treating the roof. 
  • Soft washing will certainly treat growths and surface contaminants on the roof, but any debris that is removed is coincidental. Since almost no pressure is being used, debris like leaves and sticks will very likely remain on the roof. The good news is that debris is not eating away at the shingles and causing damage like moss or black streaking. 

How Tamp Bay Soft Wash & Pressure Cleaning Can Help 

At Tamp Bay Soft Wash & Pressure Cleaning, we use the safest and most effective soft wash treatment for roofs. We follow a tried and true process to make sure that your roof remains protected from contaminants that can cause long-term damage. Black streaks and algae will go away almost immediately. Any moss or lichen will become neutralized, which is signified by its change in color. Over time, the moss and lichen will fall off the roof once the roots naturally release themselves from the shingles.  

When you are protecting your largest investment, you should rely on the professionals to ensure you are in good hands. For a free estimate on a roof treatment, simply click here

Hopefully, this blog helped you! If it did, we would really appreciate a like on Facebook! Check back here at www.tbsoftwash.com to learn more about professional soft washing and pressure cleaning and you can also follow us on all of the major social media platforms @tbsoftwash and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions!

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