Roof cleaning – we all know it’s an essential part of your property maintenance, but which is the right service for your home? One of our most frequently asked questions is the difference between soft wash roof cleaning and pressure wash roof cleaning – as a homeowner you want to be sure you’re getting the best out of your roof treatment, but might be unsure on which route to take. That’s where we come in! Let’s unpack each roof cleaning service and give you the information you need to make the right choice for your property.
What is Pressure Wash Roof Cleaning?
Pressure washing is a common cleaning method that involves using a high-powered stream of water to remove dirt, grime, moss, and algae from surfaces. When you hear “pressure wash roof cleaning,” it refers to the use of this method to clean your roof.
Pressure washing machines, also known as jet washers or power washers, can produce water pressure as high as 2,000 to 2,900 PSI (pounds per square inch), which is incredibly powerful! This strong jet of water is effective in blasting away dirt, moss, algae, and even old paint from tough surfaces like concrete and brick. Read our article on pressure washing your home exteriors if you’d like to learn a little more on how pressure washing services can benefit your whole home.
Using a pressure washer to clean your roof is absolutely a safe and viable roof cleaning service, in fact, this is one of our most popular roof cleaning services in Essex, Suffolk and beyond! However, roofs are a bit more delicate – pressure wash roof cleaning should be handled by a professional to ensure no damage is done to your roof tiles.
What is Soft Wash Roof Cleaning?
Unlike pressure wash roof cleaning, which uses a high power force of water, soft washing uses cleaning agents and the power of chemistry to do the heavy lifting.
Soft washing is a much gentler approach to roof cleaning. This roof cleaning service cleans your roof by relying on an eco-friendly cleaning agent and low pressure water to rinse the grime away. Our cleaning solutions are designed to be highly-effective without posing any threat to the local wildlife or plant life surrounding your home, it breaks down dirt, moss, and algae allowing them to be easily rinsed off without causing damage to the roof.
Key Differences Between Soft Wash and Pressure Wash Roof Cleaning
Water Pressure:
The most obvious difference is the amount of pressure used. Pressure wash roof cleaning uses high pressure, while soft washing uses a low-pressure system that is gentle on the roof.
Cleaning Agents:
Pressure washing relies primarily on the power of water to clean surfaces, while soft washing uses a cleaning solution that helps to break down the grime, moss, or algae.
At Universal Eco Homes, we ensure a cleaning agent is used during both types of roof cleaning services – so you can be sure that your home is sparkling after! Speak with a member of our team for more information, we are happy to answer any questions and queries you may have.
Type of Dirt Removed:
Both methods are effective at removing dirt, moss, algae, and other unwanted growth. However, pressure washing is more suited for tougher, more ingrained stains. Soft washing is great at tackling organic growth like mould and algae, which are common problems on roofs.
Longevity of Cleaning Results:
Pressure wash roof cleaning may last longer due to the sheer force of the pressure washer, whereas soft washing may need a “top up” more frequently – however, this does not mean that one service is better or worse than another! Ultimately it comes down to which roof cleaning service is a) going to get the job done to the best standard, and b) which service is going to ensure the safety of your home is maintained and no damage is done to your roof.
Because of this, the “best roof cleaning service” is actually determined case by case! To know exactly what your roof needs, your best bet is to speak with a roof cleaning expert who can advise on which direction you should take your cleaning service depending on your home.
When to Use Pressure Wash Roof Cleaning?
Pressure wash roof cleaning is ideal for durable roofs or properties that require a more powerful cleaning service. The risk posed by using a jet wash to clean your roof is the damage it can cause if you go the DIY route – tiles may crack or come loose, and shingles may lose their protective coating, making your roof more susceptible to leaks and weather damage. Luckily, a roof cleaner can avoid all of these problems!
When to Use Soft Wash Roof Cleaning?
Soft wash roof cleaning is the more common roof cleaning service for properties with slate and/or clay roof tiles. Because it uses a low-pressure system, there is far less risk of damage to delicate roof materials. It’s important to remember that soft washing can also cause damage if it’s not carried out properly – always look for a trusted roof cleaner for your exterior cleaning services!
Why It’s Important to Consult a Professional Roof Cleaning Company
Roof cleaning may seem like a simple task, but it’s not! Whether you choose soft washing or pressure wash roof cleaning, these types of property maintenance services require the skill and understanding of the tools, chemicals and roof materials for a safe and effective job. Every roof is different, and choosing the wrong cleaning technique can lead to costly repairs.
Professional roof cleaners have the knowledge and experience to evaluate your roof and recommend whether soft wash or pressure wash roof cleaning is best for your specific needs. They also have the proper equipment and know-how to clean your roof safely, ensuring the job is done right the first time.
Which Roof Cleaning Method is Right for You?
The decision between soft wash and pressure wash roof cleaning depends on your roof’s material, the condition of your roof, and the type of dirt and debris you need to remove. Soft washing is generally the more common option, however, we see a lot of people that require a pressure wash roof cleaning service in order to remove tough stains and get a perfect finish.
The truth is – if you want to know the right roof cleaning service for your home, you’d be best to speak to a roofing expert. Give us a call, an email, or fill out our contact form and a member of our team will be in touch. We offer free quotes so you can get an understanding of what the right service is and how much roof cleaning will cost – before you’ve booked in!
