Having a dirty roof is not only unsightly but it can damage your home as well. Moss, mildew, and algae buildup on shingles can deteriorate the material and create holes that allow water to enter your home.
Roof Cleaning Sarasota will remove fungus, dirt and debris that can cause bacteria and mold and extend your shingle lifespan.
The roof of a home is often considered a barrier that protects family members and belongings from harsh weather elements. Unfortunately, the roof is also an area that can easily be neglected unless regular cleaning and maintenance is performed.
Debris can damage the surface of a roof, leading to leaks and sagging over time. Removing the accumulated debris helps prevent moisture-related damage and can increase energy efficiency.
Branches, leaves, twigs and other solid debris can wedge into the cracks and crevices of roofing tiles and shingles, loosening them and increasing the risk of breakage during a storm or high winds. Additionally, clogged gutters can cause water to back up against a roof and lead to interior damage and structural issues.
The buildup of moss, algae and other organic growth can retain moisture against the surface of a roof, leading to rot and deterioration over time. These biological materials can also impede a roof’s ability to reflect heat, resulting in higher energy costs for cooling. Removing these materials and keeping the rest of the roof clean prevents moisture-related damage to shingles, wood, and metal roofing.
Homeowners living in urban areas may experience a greater accumulation of pollutants on their roof due to local traffic and industrial activities. This accumulated dirt and dust can create a breeding ground for algae and mold, further damaging the roof surface and underlayment.
During a roof cleaning, technicians use special cleaning agents to remove these substances from the surface of a roof and into the cracks and crevices. This process is often referred to as “soft washing” and uses mild surfactants to wash away dirt, grime, moss, and other organic growth. In addition, a soft wash can help prevent early roof repairs by cleaning and dissolving accumulated debris before it damages the underlying structure of a roof. For these reasons, it is important to consider the benefits of debris removal with every roof cleaning. This is especially true for older homes, as they are more likely to experience the negative effects of a dirty roof. A yearly roof cleaning can help prolong the life of your roof and help you avoid expensive and premature roof repairs.
Algae Removal
Algae growth can form dark streaks or patches on a roof that create an unsightly appearance. This is more of a cosmetic issue than a structural one, but it can impact the overall curb appeal of your home and can detract from its value when it comes time to sell. Regular roof cleaning can keep algae from building up and prevent this unsightly discoloration.
The buildup of algae can also lead to a damp environment that invites the growth of mildew and mold. These organisms produce allergens that can cause respiratory problems, especially for individuals with asthma and other preexisting conditions. Regular roof cleaning can eliminate this buildup and promote a healthier living environment for your family.
Algae stains are caused by a type of green algae, Gleocapsa magma. While it does not cause a lot of harm to the actual roofing material, it can deteriorate the shingles over time. It can also reduce the roof’s energy efficiency by absorbing and retaining heat from the sun, leading to higher cooling bills during summer months. Cleaning algae from the roof can restore its reflective properties and help reduce energy costs.
Another common problem caused by algae growth is the deterioration of gutters and downspouts. This can result in overflowing rainwater that can cause foundation damage and leak into the home. Regular roof cleaning can keep algae from developing on the surface of the roof and in the gutters, preserving the integrity of these important features.
Aside from the health and environmental hazards that come with algae, it can also damage a roof’s structure and lead to expensive repairs. Algae can cause the shingles to become warped or cracked and can also cause water leaks that lead to the interior of the home. Regular roof cleaning can prevent this damage and keep the shingles in good condition.
Algae discoloration can usually be removed by spraying the roof with a 50 percent mixture of water and bleach. It is best to use a hose-end sprayer instead of a power washer, as too much pressure can degrade the shingles. To protect your landscaping, wet the grass and shrubs with plain water first before you apply the bleach solution.
Water Damage Prevention
One of the main reasons for roof cleaning is to protect your home from water damage. Keeping your roof clean can prevent moss, algae, and other organisms from soaking up moisture from the elements, which can cause shingle breakage. This can lead to leaks that could damage the interior of your home, causing structural problems and potentially costly repairs. Moisture infiltrating your home can also ruin your possessions and create a health hazard for your family.
Dirty roofs are also a breeding ground for pests like birds, squirrels, and racoons. These pests use the organic material on the roof to build nests, which can damage the shingles. This also exposes the underlying structure of your roof, and over time can lead to sagging or other issues with your home.
Regularly cleaning your roof also helps to keep the gutters and downspouts clear of debris, which can clog them and create standing water on your roof. This can damage your shingles and cause water to seep into the house, leading to mold and other health concerns. A clogged gutter can also lead to overflow and flooding, which can damage your shingles and lead to further issues with your property.
The best way to protect your home and save money is to invest in a regular roof cleaning service. This preventative measure will not only help to protect your shingles and prevent water damage, but it will also save you the cost of major roof repair or replacement in the future.
If you’re considering selling your property, regular roof cleaning can also increase its value and make it more appealing to potential buyers. A dirty roof is an eyesore and can detract from the curb appeal of your home, but a clean, well-maintained roof will enhance your property’s appearance and show that it has been properly cared for over time. A professional cleaning company will be able to provide you with a detailed report on the state of your roof and suggest any necessary repairs or maintenance to keep it in good condition. They can also recommend any products that will help to protect your roof from stains and discoloration in the future, such as a benzalkonium chloride-based solution, which kills moss, algae, and lichen but won’t harm your shingles.
Increased Home Value
A clean roof is a feature that can greatly enhance the curb appeal of any home. This increased curb appeal is a factor that can contribute to an increase in the overall value of a property.
Moreover, a clean and well-maintained roof is a significant selling point that can help a homeowner attract more prospective buyers in a competitive market. This is especially important for homes in HOA neighborhoods that often require homeowners to keep their properties looking pristine.
Roof cleaning can also help extend the lifespan of a roof. Organic growths like moss and algae retain moisture, which can shorten the lifespan of roofing materials. Regular cleaning can remove these growths and prevent them from causing damage and staining to the roof. This preventative maintenance can save a homeowner money by deferring the need for costly repairs or a roof replacement.
Another way that roof cleaning can save a homeowner money is by improving energy efficiency. Dirty and stained roofs absorb more sunlight than their counterparts, which can cause a significant rise in cooling costs. By performing regular roof cleaning, a homeowner can significantly reduce their energy bills during the summer.
Additionally, many roofing warranties stipulate that regular cleaning is a necessary condition of coverage. Neglecting this maintenance can void the warranty, leaving the homeowner responsible for any resulting damages. Regular roof cleaning can help a homeowner comply with their warranty and maintain their investment in a quality roofing system.