How To Clean Roof Shingles: Best Practices

If you have any roofing needs in Wharton, TX, call our team today at Wharton Roofing (979) 534-2014.

As a rule, shingle roofs don’t require a lot of cleaning. However, if your shingle roof has accumulated a lot of dirt and debris or if you notice moss or algae growth, you may want to clean your asphalt, clay, or architectural shingles. Following a few simple rules will help you stay safe and avoid damage to your roof system.

Learn how to clean roof shingles safely and effectively by reading our team’s advice, below.

Step-by-Step Roof Cleaning

Cleaning some areas of your roof may require standing on a ladder. To keep safe, you should secure the ladder on an even, non-slippery surface and have another person steady it if necessary.

The next steps:

• Gently remove any fallen branches, leaves, and accumulated debris from your roof.
• Make a cleaning solution of water and vinegar, bleach, or mild detergent.
• Use a garden sprayer to apply the solution to your shingles from top to bottom.
• Wait for the solution to work. Avoid leaving bleach- or vinegar-containing solutions on your shingles too long since it might degrade shingle materials.
• Rinse your shingles with a garden hose.

Important: To protect your landscape, divert the cleaning runoff from your roof away from any plants. You may also cover plants to protect them from exposure to detergents.

Once your roof is dry, you may remove any remaining dead moss or vegetation from the shingles with a leaf blower.

How To Clean Roof Shingles Without Damaging Your Roof

To maintain your roof system’s integrity, avoid scrubbing shingles. Doing so may make your shingles lose their granule coating and expose your roof to damage.

You should:

• Only use a soft-bristled brush to clear debris from roof shingles
• Avoid standing or walking on the roof—walking on your roof may void your shingle warranty
• Never use a pressure washer on asphalt shingles, as it can damage the shingles

For best results, do your cleaning on a sunny day with mild temperatures. Rain may wash away your cleaning solution too soon, while excessively cold temperatures may make water and detergents freeze, expand, and damage shingles.

Should I Clean My Own Roof?

Should you do your own roof cleaning, or is it better to hire a pro? The answer may depend on your roof height and accessibility, your schedule, and your budget.

In many cases, it makes sense to opt for professional roof cleaning. Professional roofers:

• Have the skills, experience, and specialized equipment that allow them to handle roof cleaning safely and efficiently.
• Know what cleaning methods to use to avoid roof system damage.
• May combine roof cleaning with an inspection that reveals any roof issues you need to address.

Wharton Roofing: Enjoy Clean Roof Shingles in Wharton, TX

Are you Googling “How to clean roof shingles?” Do you see stubborn algae or vegetation growth on your roof? At Wharton Roofing, we offer secure, hassle-free, reliable, and affordable roof cleaning as part of our shingle roofing services in Wharton, TX.

Call us at (979) 534-2014 or contact us online for a free roof cleaning quote.