Pressure Washing Your Roof: Why, How, and When To Do It

How long has it been since you cleaned your roof? Have you ever? That's the thing about our roofing systems. Even though they work to keep us safe and protected when rain, wind, and snow hit...we often forget to take proper care of them. Or we simply don't know what we need to do to keep our roofing system working effectively. It is time for all of that to change!
For roofing materials that last longer and look better, cleaning is an absolute must. This is your guide to pressure washing your roof: why, how, and when you should do it.

Why Pressure Wash Your Roof

Keeping your roof clean is important. Some homeowners choose to do this by hand (using a bleach solution, water sprayer, and a rag) but a pressure washer is another effective way of removing built up dirt, moss growth, and grime from your roofing materials. While removing build-up is one reason to include pressure washing in your annual roof maintenance, there are a few other reasons as well.
This technique can also be used to improve the appearance of your roofing materials. Afterward, they will look brighter and newer - helping your roofing system and the rest of your homes exterior look better. In addition, roofing companies often use pressure washing in preparation for the application of a sealant product or a roof coating. Your roof should be cleaned regularly to remove build-up, to improve the appearance of your roof, and as a part of prep work.

How To Pressure Wash Your Roof

Now it is time to get to work. Start by attaching a spray wand to the pressure washer hose. Fill up the washer with cleaning solution intended for roof cleaning or a bleach and water solution. Carefully climb up on a ladder and bring the pressure washer with you. From here, you want to turn the pressure washer to the lowest possible setting. Wash the area, being careful not to drain the water towards the ladder. For the most effective clean, experts recommend that you wash your roofing materials in sections. Start at the top and work your way down. Move the ladder as you go - and be mindful to take proper safety precautions
Spray in the direction of the shingles on your roof so water will flow evenly over the roofing materials. Ideally, the water should stay on top of the shingles. This will allow it to take any dirt and grime with it as the water flows off the roof. If you are dealing with dirt or mold growth, you may need to hold the pressure washer a little bit closer. This will help completely remove the build-up..

When To Pressure Wash Your Roof

Certain times of year are better than others when it comes to pressure washing. Unless you live in a warm climate, the winter is a no-go. All of that water will turn to ice, which can add excess weight to your roofing system. Not a good thing! The best time to take care of this do it yourself task is during the summer. You may even be able to stretch it out to early fall depending on the weather conditions. Why aim for summer? The weather tends to be warmer and dryer. That allows you to avoid dangerous roofing conditions and will help the roofing shingles to dry faster.
Pressure washing your roof can be a great thing. It improves the appearance of your roofing shingles, removes built-up dirt, mold, and moss, and can even prepare your roof for the application of important roofing products. Try adding it to your annual maintenance - and get ready to see results.
Joe Davis understands the importance of pressure washing your roof. He has experience bringing both residential and commercial roofing products to customers all over the country. In the last few years, he has been working successfully with IKO Roofing Shingles.