Many people consider the process of cleaning a roof to be very simple. However, it is a job that requires making a few advance preparations and choosing both cleaning agents and equipment with a fair amount of care and consideration. If you have a roof cleaning job coming up, here are some things you should know.
The first thing you should understand about roof cleaning is that the task is best accomplished in stages. By taking the time to remove any loose debris from the roof, it is possible to have a better view of any stubborn or trouble spots that must be addressed. You can easily remove leaves and other loose material by using a soft bristled broom that is sturdy enough to push the debris off the edge of the roofline but not so stiff that it can damage the shingles in some manner.
After removing all the loose items from the roof, you can continue the roof cleaning by beginning to loosen any dirt or grime that is firmly attached to the roof. The best way to accomplish this task is to use a water hose and thoroughly soak the roof. Five to seven minutes of steady soaking is normally sufficient to loosen caked-on dirt enough for you to remove it with relative ease.
Just about every roof cleaning project involves some grime or dirt that does not want to let go. This is where making use of roof cleaning chemicals comes into play. There are different roof cleaning products formulated to work well with all sorts of roofing, including slate shingles or petroleum-based rolled roofing. Couple products recommended for your roof type with the right roof cleaning equipment and you will be able to remove that stubborn dirt and other residue without harming your roof in any way.
After you have identified the right equipment and products to use in your periodic roof cleaning, make it a point to keep all your roof cleaning supplies together for easy access. This may involve using a simple case or caddy to hold the basic equipment and cleaning agents. Using something that can be transported with ease while you ascend the ladder will minimize your chances of injury when climbing to the roof and also cut back on the frustration of being unable to find something you need for the job.
While it is possible to hire professional roof cleaners to handle this chore, many homeowners find they can do the job in a matter of a couple of hours or less. By knowing what you need, exercising a little caution, and taking your time, you can save yourself a significant amount of money while also earning the satisfaction of doing something for yourself.