From the scorching summer heat to winter rains, your ROOF is the ultimate barrier between you and nature. You cannot overlook the unpredictable Australian weather and live with accumulating debris and dirt on your roof.
If left, they will soon invite a number of roofing issues, as small as cracks and as major as leaks and gutter damage.
But here’s a simple thing you can do to keep things from getting messier and extend your roof’s life!
We are talking about cleaning the roof. Roof cleaning is the process of wiping off debris and other components from the roof’s surface to prevent clogging and deterioration of your roof’s appearance and structural strength.
But how often to clean the roof and restore its aesthetic appeal?
Well, don’t worry! We are here with some practical roof-cleaning tips that are your primary steps toward a well-maintained home. Read on to learn more about giving your roof the well-deserving care and attention it requires.
The consequences of a neglected roof
Do you think your roof is clean? Certainly not!
The silent struggles happening above your head need attention. It is easy to overlook, but the impact could be risky.
A neglected roof accumulates dirt, debris, moss, mould, mildew, and algae. These may initially seem harmless, but they become breeding grounds for problems like roof damage. Not only this, but if you are constantly ignoring the moss and algae, your roof will trap moisture. This will ultimately lead to the deterioration of the roofing material.
Hence, be prepared to face issues like:
- Clogged drainage system due to debris and leaves
- Broken and brittle tiles
- Potential structural damage
- Clogged gutter overflow
- Pest infestations
- Fungus built-up
- Health risks
- Water staining
- Erosion
- Leaks
Why is roof cleaning crucial?
Now that you know the majority of potential damages an unclean roof can cause, it’s high time to know why roof cleaning is crucial. The primary answer is to maintain the longevity and good health of the roof.
Cleaning the roof regularly helps prevent the accumulation of debris, moss and algae, protecting your roof’s integrity from these elements. Cleaning also improves energy efficiency by maintaining reflective surfaces.
But how often should you clean your roof?
At least once a year. To maintain good condition and have an easy assessment, cleaning the roof once a year is important. Of course, you can also clean it twice a year to keep your roof looking great and in a healthy condition. The rest of the case lies with your location, climate, and surrounding environment.
Quick Learning: How often you clean your roof also depends on heavy rainfall, high humidity, and trees surrounding the area.
A more general and thorough guide:
Coastal areas: If we talk of homes near the coast, they are more susceptible to salt and humidity. Therefore, for the residents of coastal areas, it is advisable to clean the roof at least twice a year. This will prevent the effects of corrosive salt and algae growth.
Urban Environment: If we talk of metropolitan cities like Melbourne, where pollution and debris are common, an annual roof cleaning should be sufficient. But, to catch any issues early, it is recommended to opt for frequent inspections.
General roof cleaning tips
Coming to the main point, let’s explore the details of roof cleaning tips without further ado:
Personal inspection: If you are doing regular inspections, you will figure out any signs of moss, algae, and other debris easily. Nothing beats early detection, followed by immediate action to prevent future damage.
Choose the right time: Refrain from cleaning your roof when the weather conditions are extreme. The roof becomes wet and slippery, which makes it difficult to clean. Any sunny day with mild temperatures and a dry roof is ideal for cleaning.
Safety first: Ensuring your safety is vital before you think of roof safety. Lace yourself with proper equipment like study ladders, safety harnesses, non-slip footwear, and other safety gear.
Pro Tip: It is advised to work in the company of a roofing specialist Melbourne, given the intensity of damage and repairs.
Use Appropriate Cleaning Tools and Solutions: A general rule of thumb is mixing lukewarm water and mild detergent. This DIY solution can go a long way to converting a mossy roof into a glossy one. It is equally effective in removing stains without compromising the actual integrity of the roof. Apart from your DIY solution, here are some other essentials for roof cleaning:
- Soft-bristle brushes
- Low-pressure washers
- Any specialised roof cleaning solution for stubborn algae and moss
However, research before cleaning, as different roofs require different cleaning solutions. For instance, metal tiles can be cleaned using a specialised cleaner.
Start with removing debris: Sometimes, it is just the leaves, branches, and other debris that are deteriorating the roof’s health. You can use a stiff-bristled broom or simply a leaf blower to get rid of unnecessary dirt.
Don’t ignore gutters and downspouts: Once you clean the roof thoroughly, ensure that the gutters and downspouts are clean as well. If the gutters are unclean and hinder water flow, the risk of water damage to the roof, walls, and foundation will increase.
When to call the professionals?
You need to call the roof repairs Melbourne when you fail to clean your roof with DIY roof cleaning tricks and tips. You can also call them if you are uncomfortable cleaning your roof. A professional roofer with the right equipment and expertise can clean the roof more safely and effectively.
It is your sign to seek professional assistance in roof-cleaning if:
- The roof is steep
- You lack the necessary expertise
- Your roof has a complex structure
- You’re not comfortable with heights
- The types of equipment are not enough
- There is suspicious underlying roof damage
- A significant amount of algae and moss growth
Final thoughts
Investing in roof maintenance will lead to increasing the value of your house and its lifespan.
Your roof doesn’t deserve to take a back seat from your neglect. Deny or accept it, the curb appeal of your property is directly affected by the dirty and disorderly roof. Henceforth, it will lower the overall market value of your home.
Lastly, the above-provided roof cleaning tips will prevent your roof from any major wear and tear. These tips will also spare you from any costly repairs. Remember that beyond aesthetics, there is structural integrity and a healthy living environment to be maintained via roof cleaning.