Your home’s roof needs regular cleaning to keep shingles from being damaged. Debris, such as twigs, leaves, pine straw, and moss, build up over time, blocking rainwater and trapping moisture against the shingles.
This can cause internal and external water damage to the house and roof. The best solution is a soft wash, which uses gentle water pressure and kills the algae growth without damaging the house and siding.
Remove Debris
If debris builds up on your roof, it can cause several issues. For one, it can allow organic growth, such as moss and mildew, to form, damaging asphalt shingles and leading to leaks. It can also cause pests to nest in the roof, and it ruins the home’s overall appearance.
Generally, light debris can be removed by hand, but you must exercise extreme caution to avoid damaging your roof. If you are still determining whether or not the debris is light enough, you should hire a roofing professional.
Debris, such as leaves, twigs, pine straws, and branches, can also clog gutters, causing standing water that damages shingles and leads to leaks. Cleaning your gutters is an important part of roof cleaning, and you can do it safely with a ladder or from a power washer. However, pressure washing isn’t recommended for your roof, as it can cause severe damage to your shingles and siding.
Clean the Gutters
Gutters protect your roof, siding, and foundation from water damage. They also help to direct rainwater away from your home. However, when gutters are clogged with leaves, branches, and other debris, they can cause problems.
Regular cleaning is a good way to prevent problems like water leaks, overflowing gutters, and rotting fascia. For best results, use a ladder that is tall enough to allow you to clean the gutters without stepping off of it. Choose a ladder with stabilizer arms that will help you stay secure.
Check for downspout clogs once you’ve removed all the debris from your gutters. If necessary, blast them free with the fine-spray nozzle of your power washer. This is particularly important in colder climates, where clogged gutters can create ice dams that can cause serious damage.
Clean the Siding
Whether it’s vinyl, aluminum, or wood house siding, regular washing will increase curb appeal and lengthen the life of your home. Before getting up high, be sure you have a sturdy ladder fitted with stabilizer arms (like the Werner True Grip Stabilizer). It’s also smart to have a spotter on the ground to hold the ladder and hand up tools as needed.
You should use a detergent solution formulated specifically for your type of siding. This will reduce the risk of damaging your vinyl or causing abrasions.
Always rinse your siding from bottom to top to avoid leaving cleaning marks. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, liquid grease removers, undiluted chlorine bleach, or furniture polish.
Turn off any outdoor electrical outlets and switch plates to prevent water or cleaning solution from entering your home during the exterior house cleaning process. Covering plants and shrubs with plastic sheets or tarps is also wise. Be sure to cover any outdoor light fixtures, too.
Remove Mold
Mold is living fungi, and it is important to remove it from the exterior of your home. Left unchecked, it can spread to the inside of your walls and cause health problems for you and your family.
The best way to remove mold is with a safe cleaning solution for the siding and the roof. Many chemical-based options are available, but if you want something a little more environmentally friendly, try using vinegar or mixing your own cleaning solution at home.
If you use a cleaner, scrub the moldy areas gently but thoroughly. Rinse the siding thoroughly with a garden hose, ensuring the cleaning solution and any spores are completely flushed away.
This is a job that most people advise leaving to the professionals. Ensure you wear proper safety equipment, including thick rubber gloves and eye protection. Also, ensure that your ladder is placed in a spot that grants you unobstructed access to the roof. It’s a good idea to use a harness, as well.
