When you are having your roof power washed, you should always hire a professional to do the job. This will ensure that the finished result is as clean as possible. However, you need to be aware of the chemicals that will be used during this process. In addition to these chemicals, you should also find out what the cost of power washing your roof is.
Low-pressure rinsing
When power washing roofs, it is important to use the appropriate cleaning solution. Many of the cleaning solutions used in power washing are not suitable for delicate surfaces, such as shingles. For these types of surfaces, soft washing is the best option. High-pressure washing can damage these surfaces.
Soft-washing involves using a cleaning surfactant to remove stains and other materials on the roof. Surfactants help the water carry away the dirt and debris, thereby preventing runoff and further damage to the tiles. Moreover, the surfactant is biodegradable, which means that you can use it again without worrying about damaging the surroundings.
Another alternative to pressure washing roofs is low-pressure rinsing. This method of cleaning is a safe way to remove the soap residue and debris. It is also a good choice if you are not experienced in using pressure washing equipment. The process can also damage your roof, so it is always best to hire a professional.
Avoiding power washing a shingle roof
Power washing a shingle roof can be a dangerous job. While a standard garden hose can clean the surface of the roof, the pressure used by power washing equipment can cause granules to loosen and pull shingles off the roof. Using a low-pressure wash will minimize the risk of damaging shingles.
In addition to causing damage to the roof, pressure-washing can remove the protective grit coating. In most cases, sweeping the roof and rinsing it with a garden hose is sufficient to remove debris. Nevertheless, pressure-washing is not the best solution for removing algae, moss, or lichen. Using a soft washing solution to remove the algae will also preserve the surface of the roof and prevent further damage.
Another reason to avoid power washing a shingle roof is the risk of leaks. High-pressure water can force its way under shingles and into the home, causing water damage and mold growth. Furthermore, high-pressure water can also damage chimney sealants, which prevent water from penetrating.
Common chemicals used to power wash a roof
When a company wants to clean a roof, they will use a variety of cleaning agents to remove algae and other pollutants. The most common chemical used is sodium hypochlorite, which acts like a bleach and removes soil from roof surfaces. This chemical is often mixed with water to create a solution that can be used to power wash a roof. While a store-bought bleach contains about three percent sodium hypochlorite per gallon, pressure washing companies use 12-14% to thoroughly clean a roof.
Depending on the type of roof, bleach can be a good choice. It is highly effective, but you should be aware of the dangers of using bleach on a roof. The chemical must remain on the roof’s pitched surface for long enough to kill off organic matter. If it isn’t able to stay on the roof for long enough, it will simply run off and damage nearby surfaces.
There are also other options available, such as soft washing. However, this method is often more expensive than pressure washing, as it involves more labor. Soft washing professionals use low-pressure hoses under 1,000 psi, scrub brushes, and cleaning solutions to remove algae and other particles. Soft washing services usually charge $0.30 to $60 per square foot.
Cost of power washing a roof
The cost of power washing a roof depends on several factors, including the type of roof and its pitch. A single-story home can be cleaned relatively easily by pressure washing, but homes with multiple stories or moss will require a more intensive approach. Pressure washing a roof with a chemical solution will usually cost you between $0.25 and $0.70 per square foot.
Basic labor for a 500-square-foot roof will cost around $0.33 to $0.41 per square foot. Variables in the amount will depend on the size and condition of the roof, the options chosen, and the time it will take to complete the job. There are also several costs associated with setting up and using the specialty equipment.
While you may be tempted to rent pressure washing equipment and power-wash your own roof, it is not a good idea to do it yourself. Power washing can damage your roof and void any warranty on your roofing material. Moreover, working on a roof can be dangerous, so you should hire a company that has workers’ compensation and insurance coverage. You should also get at least three quotes from different roof cleaning companies, as prices can vary greatly.
