Keeping your roof clean is one of the biggest challenges for UK homeowners. From sunshine to showers, the Great British weather can wreak havoc on your roof tiles. After a couple of years without any roof cleaning methods, your roof tiles can look worn and nothing like they did when you first moved in. Nobody loves that!
That’s why it’s important to take the time and care for your roof tiles. Annual roof cleaning methods and specialist treatments (preferably before the winter kicks in), is the best way to maintain your home.
If you want to restore your roof tiles, Universal Eco Homes is your best friend. Our complete roof restoration package gives your house’s exterior the second life it truly deserves.
But if you’d rather go the DIY roof cleaning route to save money, we’ll also pitch in with our two cents. In this guide, we’ll give you a quick rundown of a couple of the best, safe and efficient roof cleaning methods. Let’s hop in…
Why Should You Clean Your Roof?
First, let’s understand why you need to clean your roof.
Remember, your roof is what protects your house’s interior from outside elements. Over time, debris, moss, algae, and dirt builds up on the roof causing damage and reducing its lifespan.
In short, cleaning your roof will keep it clear from build up of dirt and reduce damage to the roof tiles, as well as prevent future build-up. Not only will roof cleaning make your house look better, it improves the drainage of your roof tiles and gutter (reducing the risk of leaks and damp), and will keep the insides of your home clean and free from potential water damage caused by roof-related issues.
If you need more convincing be sure to check out our article on 7 Reasons You Should Regularly Clean Your Roof.
Our Top 3 DIY Roof Cleaning Methods
There are many DIY ways to clean your roof, depending on your budget and the equipment you have available at home. Here are some roof cleaning methods that we think provide the best results:
1. Manual Roof Scraping
The simplest way to clean your roof is to take a roof brush or scraper tool and manually remove the moss, lichen, and other debris stuck on the surface. It’s easier said than done, though, as depending on the size of your roof, it can take hours, if not days. However, for small houses, this can be pretty effective. It works best when combined with a biocide treatment afterward to kill any remaining spores.
Pros of manual roof scraping:
- Doesn’t require too much investment
- An effective method to clean small houses
Cons of manual scraping of roof:
- Labour intensive process
2. Soft Washing Your Roof with Bleach
Soft washing combines low pressure and a bleaching solution like sodium hypochlorite to clean roof surfaces. The bleach kills and removes moss and other organic growths easily. However, you need to be extremely careful as it can damage your roof . That’s why we recommend leaving it to the professionals if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Pros of soft washing your roof with bleach:
- Removes organic growths quickly
- Doesn’t take too long to get the job done
Cons of soft washing your roof with bleach:
- Can damage the roof if not careful
Cons of steam cleaning your roof:
- Requires specialised tools that can be pricey.
3. Biocidal Roof Wash
The most effective way to kill moss, algae, and fungi growing on your roof is to apply a biocide solution. We use it for our roof and wall cleaning services when the situation calls for it. The solution is sprayed and applied with a brush. While it’s an effective way to clean the roof, the steps might be tricky for a homeowner. That’s why we won’t recommend trying it out yourself.
Pros of biocidal roof wash:
- Effectively kills organic growth
- Long-lasting solution
Cons of biocidal roof wash:
- Requires a professional touch.
Should You Clean Your Roof on Your Own?
While basic debris removal with a roof brush or garden hose can be a DIY job, more intensive roof cleaning is best left to the professionals. They have the proper equipment, safety gear, experience and solutions to clean roofs thoroughly without causing any damage.
When is the Best Time to Clean Your Roof?
Ideally, you want to clean your roof in the spring when the weather is stable and mild.
How Long Does Professional Roof Cleaning Last?
It mostly depends on who you hire. Universal Eco Homes are an authorised ProPerla coating applicator. Our roof cleaning and coating service keeps your house looking pristine and protected for 10 years. (ProPERLA’s manufacturing guarantee on all coating products)
Alternatively, our roof cleaning service offers a budget-friendly way to get your roof cleaned professionally. We carefully remove debris, dirt, moss, and algae, leaving your roof looking clean, fresh, and rejuvenated. By eliminating these elements, we also prevent potential damage to your roof’s structure
Hire a Professional Roof Cleaning Service
Looking for a professional roof cleaning service you can trust? Give us a call! Universal Eco Homes has been providing homeowners with home improvement services, including roof cleaning and coating, for years. Leave it to our team of fully-trained experts to give your roof the loving that it deserves.
Feel free to call us today to get your free quote and site survey!
