We’ve been asked often; “is pressure washing a roof is a bad idea?” The quick and easy answer is yes. Allowing someone to power wash or pressure wash your roof may result in damage requiring you to replace your roof or potentially lose an insurance claim. Roof cleaning costs can be something many want to avoid as it can be costly to those who aren’t prepared for this type of maintenance cost. However, the cost of roof cleaning properly far out weighs the average cost of replacing a roof; or worse, repairs that may occur due to needing your roof replaced. Opting for a safe roof cleaning should always be your main consideration.

Pressure washers spray highly-pressurized water that can be used to blast sediment like moss, algae, and streaks from surfaces. This cleaning method works really well when the surface being washed can stand up to that level of water pressure like concrete. Removing contaminants and dirt from your roof is extremely important in extending its lifespan, but you should always proceed with caution when seeking a roof cleaning company near you.

Is Pressure Washing Going To Damage My Roof?

There are two different types of safety you have to look out for. The safety of your roof and the safety of you or the people carrying out the roof cleaning services. While asphalt shingles are made to handle heavy rainfall, raindrops are not quite the same as a concentrated beam of pressurized water from a pressure washer. Cleaning your roof with a pressure washer would likely do much more harm than good. Whether you are going to attempt to wash it from a ladder or walk around on the roof, using a pressure washer is extremely dangerous and not advisable. This can damage your shingles, void warranties and cause a loss of insurance coverage for your home. Skilled roof washing companies utilize soft washing equipment to clean roofs safely. Not only is it safer, it is also the A.R.M.A. approved method.

How Michigan Power Washing Pros Can Help

Professional roof power washing will restore the overall appearance of your home’s roof, removing built-up soot, grime, dust, and other debris including organic growth, as well as various stains and areas of discoloration. Roofing shingles and tiles will then look fresh and vibrant so that your entire home appears cleaner and newer.

A soft wash system will also remove algae, mold, moss, and mildew that is typically unreachable with a standard hose or pressure washer. The detergents and surfactants used during a roof soft pressure washing are meant to penetrate all corners and crevices of a roof. Low-pressure roof cleanings won’t strip away loose tiles or granules on the shingles themselves, leaving them intact and in better condition then before.

A thorough roof washing also reveals areas of damage along the surface of a roof. A home’s roof might have soft spots, indicating the need for structural repair, hidden under water stains or layers organic growth. A professional cleaning may reveal damaged areas so that repairs can be made promptly, preserving the framework of the home and avoiding roof leaks and eventual water damage. Although, having your roof regularly cleaned will help aid in not having soft spots form from neglect. This is why most insurance companies will deny a claim if they see the roof hasn’t been maintained.

How Do I Find A Reputable Roof Cleaning Company?

When looking for roof cleaning companies. Make sure to ask about their roof cleaning processes, guarantees as well as warranties and what their insurance covers. Roofs are very costly and one mistake can leave you carrying the bag if you hire the wrong roof cleaning company. This is why Michigan Power Washing Pros has gone as far as to have $2 million in insurance coverage and we warranty your roof from needing to be cleaned for at least 3 years with other warranty options available.

Think we could be of assistance to you and your roof cleaning needs? Call us at 877-WSH-PROS or contact us today for your FREE estimate and see what we can do for you!