Hello and welcome! Do you want to know how to clean your roof's asphalt shingles? You're in luck, because I have some great advice for you. To begin, while cleaning your roof may not be the most exciting task on your to-do list, it is critical to maintaining your roof's health and preventing potential damage. So, let's go over the dos and don'ts of cleaning your roof's asphalt shingles.
Do's: To clean the area, use a soft-bristled brush or a low-pressure garden hose. High-pressure water should be avoided because it can remove the protective granules on your shingles.
Use a gentle cleaning solution, such as warm water and dish soap, or a low concentration outdoor cleaner from your local hardware store. You don't want to use harsh chemicals that can damage your shingles and harm nearby plants and vegetation. Commercial grade cleaners are best left to roof cleaning experts.
Take precautionary measures! Wear slip-resistant shoes, a safety harness or rope, and have someone assist you. People, put your safety first.
Clean on a regular basis. Aim to clean your roof at least once a year, and more frequently if you live in an area with a lot of trees or heavy rainfall.
Don'ts:
Avoid using a pressure washer. Although it appears to be a quick and simple way to clean your roof, it can cause significant damage to your asphalt shingles. Use a soft-bristled brush or a low-pressure garden hose instead.
Avoid using abrasive materials such as wire brushes. These tools can also harm your asphalt shingles.
When the roof is wet or slippery, avoid cleaning it. Wet or slippery roofs are hazardous to walk on, increasing the risk of falls or accidents. Before attempting to clean your roof, make sure it is dry and free of debris.
A final piece of advice for good measure. You’ve taken the risk to climb onto your roof and have done the work to scrub off all of the moss and algae. To make the fruit of your hard effort and risk longer lasting, remember to take with you a can of zinc powder onto the roof with you to help kill off any remaining bits of moss or algae. With great caution climb to the peaks of the roof and spread the powder along the peaks in a zig-zag pattern from edge to edge. If you decide to do this final step, definitely wear the safety harness.
That's all there is to it, folks. Following these simple do's and don'ts will get you on your way to a clean and healthy roof.
