Can You Pressure Wash A Roof?

Organic growth is the number one cause of roof deterioration. Removing moss, algae, and black streaks from your roof is extremely important to extending its lifespan. On average, roof replacement costs are between $5,000-$10,000. Annual roof cleanings are the easiest way to eliminate costly repairs and help keep your roof looking like new. However, it is important to use the correct processes like soft washing when cleaning a roof. Using high pressure to wash your roof can cause severe structural damage and void any future insurance claims. We strongly recommend to never use high-pressure when cleaning any roofing material.

 

Why You Should Never Pressure Wash A Roof

Attempting to pressure wash a roof can be very risky, time consuming, and extremely dangerous. According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), high pressure washing systems are likely to damage asphalt roofing and should not be used on asphalt roofing for removing algae or for any other purpose. Your roof is one of the most important features of your home, so why take the risk with the DIY approach?  It will be difficult to remove roof discoloration using the Do-It-Yourself approach.

 

What Causes Roof Discoloration?

Roof discoloration is caused by a species of algae called Gloeocapsa Magma– sometimes called Black Algae or Roof Algae. This type of algae is contained in and transported through the air and tends to collect and grow upon roofing structures. This growth on your roof looks dirty and will reduce the life of your shingles. Other non-organic staining such as rust or calcium can also cause your roof to look discolored. The only way to properly clean your roof is by using a soft washing treatment.

 

Why You Should Always Soft Wash A Roof

A soft washing treatment will help completely eliminate and neutralize gloeocapsa magma, algae, and moss from any roof material. Soft washing treatments use low-pressure that are designed to clean asphalt shingles, ceramic roofs, cedar shakes, and metal roofs. Soft washing also uses specialized biodegradable solutions to kill the organic growths on your roof.

Soft washing provides many great benefits:

• Completely eliminates mildew, fungus, and bacteria
• Prevents shingle deterioration
• Extends your roof’s lifespan
• Removes staining and discolorations

 

The Bottom Line

At Blustream Power Wash, we use the safest and most effective soft wash treatments for your roof. Our trained washing professionals know how to safely remove mold, algae, and other organic growths from any roof material. For information on our roof cleaning services, read here or call us at 219.370.6827 to speak to one of our professionals and schedule your service to get your roof looking like new!