Are unsightly moss, dirt, or debris marring the beauty of your home’s roofing shingles? Don’t worry because we’ve got you covered with three easy and effective solutions to restore the luster to your roof. 

A clean and well-maintained roof enhances your house’s curb appeal and protects it from potential damage. In this article, we’ll unveil several tried-and-true methods for cleaning your roofing shingles. 

Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to cleaning roof shingles so they appear squeaky clean.

 

How to Clean Roofing Shingles

 

• Use bleach & water to clean your roof

 

When it comes to cleaning your asphalt shingle roof, various shingle-cleaning chemicals are available. However, it’s crucial to remember that a pressure washer is not recommended, as it can loosen the shingles and cause roof damage. 

Instead, choose a sprayer filled with your chosen solution and then fit a garden hose onto the sprayer. However, among the popular methods you can use, the best option is to use a bleach solution.

You must prepare a powerful yet safe solution to tackle those distracting black streaks caused by blue-green algae or green moss growth. Hence, you need to use equal parts of water and laundry-strength chlorine bleach. Pour this potent mixture into a garden sprayer capable of handling harsh chemicals.

Once you’re on the roof, thoroughly wet the surface using the sprayer and cover every stain. Allow the bleach solution to work magic for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Grab a scrub brush and vigorously attack the streaks to take a more aggressive approach. Afterward, rinse the treated area with a garden hose using low pressure.

It’s important to note that consumer-grade bleach solutions in hardware stores typically have lower potency than those used by professionals. Hardware stores usually carry bleach solutions at 6.5% sodium hypochlorite. 

Meanwhile, professionals often use a stronger 12.5% solution.

With this bleach and water cleaning method, you can eliminate unsightly streaks and reclaim the beauty of your roof. Remember to handle bleach carefully and follow safety precautions throughout the process.

 

 

• Roof cleaning products for an Asphalt shingle roof

 

If you prefer an alternative to bleach due to its corrosive nature, roof cleaners specially designed for asphalt shingle roofs can be an excellent choice. These professional-grade cleaning products are formulated to target specific roof algae, such as Gloeocapsa magma, without manual mixing. When working with roof cleaners, it’s important to exercise caution:

• Shield yourself by wearing protective gloves and goggles to safeguard your skin and eyes.
• Use the cleaner bottle to spray the roof and ensure thorough saturation of the asphalt surface.
• Allow the cleaner to soak on the algae stains for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, just like the previous method.

It’s essential to note that not all roof cleaning products are the same. Different formulations may work better on specific types of spores than others. To determine the most effective product for your circumstances, you may need to experience some trial and error. 

We recommend experimenting with multiple products to discover the best one for your roofing needs. Fortunately, with the right roof cleaner, you can bid farewell to unsightly algae stains.

 

 

• Pressure Washer for Asphalt Shingles

 

For homeowners who prefer to avoid chemical products that may potentially stain their asphalt shingle roofs, there’s an alternative.  This alternative cleaning method is carried out through a pressure washer. While professional roof cleaners charge a hefty fee for pressure-washing services, breaking the bank is unnecessary. You can borrow a pressure washer from a helpful neighbor or rent one at an affordable cost. 

Dedicate a couple of hours, and you can tackle the job yourself. Remember that a regular hose won’t suffice for this task; you’ll need a pressure washer to produce a pressure of 2,000 pounds per square inch or more.

Before commencing with the pressure washing, ensure that your asphalt shingle roof has no loose pieces that the force could dislodge. Once you’re ready, connect the pressure washer to a clean plumbing source.

Direct the high-pressure spray onto the affected areas and allow the force to dissipate the stains and restore the roof’s cleanliness.

Using a pressure washer, you can thoroughly and effectively clean your asphalt shingle roof without the need for chemical products. Just be sure to handle the pressure washer carefully and follow safety guidelines.

 

How to Maintain Your Clean Roof

Once you’ve successfully cleaned your roof, you must adopt a simple maintenance routine to keep it in optimal condition for the long term. Here are some key steps to include in your roof maintenance plan:

1. Trim tree branches: Overhanging tree branches create shaded areas on your roof. This provides a conducive environment for the growth of algae and moss. Hence, regularly trim large tree branches to prevent excessive shading and keep them away from your roof.
2. Maintain a functional gutter system: A properly functioning gutter system plays a crucial role in directing water away from your roof and your home’s foundation. Ensure that your gutters are clean and free from debris. Also, ensure to inspect them periodically to address any clogs or damage.
3. Remove debris: If you live in an area prone to falling leaves and sticks, removing them from your roof is important. Use a leaf blower or a broom to clear away debris regularly. This will help prevent them from accumulating and potentially causing issues.

By incorporating these simple maintenance practices into your routine, you can extend the lifespan of your clean roof. Regular upkeep ensures that your roof continues to provide the necessary protection and enhances your home’s overall aesthetics.

 

Conclusion

Maintaining the cleanliness of your roofing shingles is not just about aesthetics but also about extending the longevity and performance of your roof. It prevents the buildup of moss, algae, and other elements that could degrade your roofing system. 

If you’re not confident in undertaking this task yourself due to the risks and physical demands associated with roof maintenance, don’t worry! Shoreline Roofing is ready to take the job for you. As a trusted company offering comprehensive roofing installation, repair, and maintenance services, we make it our mission to provide you with the best solutions that align with your needs.

Take the first step towards a cleaner and more durable roof. Contact us at (250) 413-7967 today for a free estimate.