Roof Pressure Washing: What You Need to Know

If your roof is dirty with tree branch debris, moss, and several other types of strange things growing on it, is pressure washing your roof the right choice? Remember that there are two main problems with pressure washing your roof. Firstly, it can be damaging to your roof. Secondly, the roof's warranty may get void if you pressure wash it.

Measures to Be Taken While Pressure Washing

While pressure washing your roof, always keep in mind that the power washer's output pressure must be controlled accurately. Otherwise, you may end up damaging your roof severely. Another thing to pay attention to is the nozzle size of the washer. If the nozzle size is different than what is required, it can damage your roof. Also, make sure that spraying should be done from the top of the roof and not underneath.

In addition to these, pressure washing your roof may compromise the sealants used in vents, flashing, solar panels, skylights, chimneys, etc. and may ultimately lead to roof leaks. Make sure that the water temperature is not too hot and the angle of the spray is correct. Otherwise, your roof might get damaged.

Problems That May Arise Because of Pressure Washing

Before attempting to pressure wash your roof, you should understand that most of the components used on a roof are not built for enduring pounding, high water pressure. This is especially true in the case of homes with older roofs. When you use consistent high water pressure on such roofs, it can lead to various issues, like:

• Decreasing the life expectancy and longevity of roofing materials drastically.
• Breaking the adhesive between shingles.
• Damaging the underlying fabric of the roofing material.
• Stripping away the ceramic granules on shingles.
• Causing cracks in cement, ceramic tiles, clay, slate, shakes, and even in metal.
• Dispersing fungi, moss, and other organisms to the entire area of the roof.
• May ultimately result in roof leaks.

Other Cleaning Options That You May Consider

Here are some ways to clean your roof without damaging it.

• Use soft washing or a low-pressure wash system with a special nozzle tip for cleaning roof shingles. Remember that this process is not entirely safe as it can harm your roof shingles.
• Use a hose from the ground level and clean shingles from the top.
• Use a soft broom or brush from a ladder with proper safety precautions.
• Use a leaf blower to remove any tree limbs and debris.
• Try treatment processes that can ward off mildew, moss, algae, fungi, and dirt.

Are you looking for a commercial roofing contractor in California? Feel free to contact Applied Roofing Services today. You can call us at 714-632-8418 or get a quote online.