When it comes to maintaining your roof, you might wonder if pressure washing shingles is a suitable cleaning method. While pressure washing can be effective for various surfaces, it may not always be the best choice for roof shingles, especially asphalt and cedar varieties. Understanding the implications of pressure washing roof shingles and the safer alternatives is essential.
Is Pressure Washing Shingles a Good Idea?
Pressure washing shingles can seem straightforward in removing dirt, algae, moss, and other debris. However, it is essential to consider the potential risks and downsides. Roof shingles are designed to withstand the elements but are not necessarily built to handle the force of high-pressure water streams.
Does pressure washing damage asphalt? Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials due to their durability and cost-effectiveness. Despite their robustness, pressure washing can cause significant damage to asphalt shingles, especially if they’re old. As such, if you want to pressure wash your roof shingles, it is best to hire professionals.
Here are some reasons why DIY pressure washing isn’t the best option for roof shingles.
1. Potentially Voids Manufacturer’s Warranty
Many roof shingle manufacturers explicitly state that high-pressure water can void the warranty. Pressure washing can compromise the integrity of the shingles, leading to premature failure. Manufacturers’ warranties are designed to protect homeowners from defects and premature wear, but using improper cleaning methods can cancel these protections.
2. Strips Protective Coating
Should you pressure wash asphalt shingles? Asphalt shingles are coated with granules that protect against UV rays and provide fire resistance. High-pressure washing can strip away these granules, reducing the shingles’ protective capabilities. Without this coating, shingles are more susceptible to damage from the sun and other environmental factors, leading to faster deterioration.
3. Loosens the Shingles
The force from a pressure washer can loosen shingles or even dislodge them entirely. Loose shingles can lead to gaps in your roof, making it vulnerable to leaks and other weather-related damage. Furthermore, displaced shingles can be challenging to repair, often requiring the replacement of larger roof sections.
4. Leaks Water Under the Shingles and Into Your House
High-pressure water can penetrate beneath the shingles, causing water to seep into the underlying layers of your roof. This can lead to water damage inside your home, promoting mold growth and structural issues. Once water finds its way into your roof’s underlayment, it can be a costly and time-consuming problem to resolve.
5. Reduces the Lifespan of Roof Shingles
Overall, the mounting effects of pressure washing can significantly reduce the lifespan of asphalt shingles. By stripping away protective layers, loosening shingles, and potentially causing leaks, pressure washing undermines the durability and longevity of your roof, leading to the need for more frequent repairs or replacements.
Can Asphalt Roof Shingles Be Power Washed?
Power washing is similar to pressure washing as it uses high-pressure water to clean surfaces. The only difference is the water temperature. Power washing uses heated water, whereas pressure washing does not.
Given the potential damage, it is not a good idea to power wash roof shingles without the help of a professional. The risks outweigh the benefits, making it an unsuitable cleaning method for this type of roofing material. Instead, homeowners should seek alternative, gentler methods for cleaning their roof shingles.
How to Clean Asphalt Shingles
Pressure washing asphalt roof shingles is ill-advised, especially when not done by a professional. So, how do you clean dirty asphalt shingles? Here are some safe and effective methods:
- Soft Washing. Use a low-pressure sprayer and a biodegradable cleaning solution specifically designed for roofs. This method effectively removes algae, moss, and dirt without damaging the shingles. This is also best done by professionals.
- Manual Cleaning. Gently scrub the shingles with a soft-bristle brush and a mild cleaning solution. This is labor-intensive but minimizes the risk of damage.
- Preventative Measures. Install zinc or copper strips along the roof ridge. Rainwater will carry metal ions down the roof, inhibiting algae and moss growth.
Can You Pressure Wash Shingles Made of Cedar?
Cedar shingles, known for their natural beauty and durability, also require careful maintenance. While cedar is more resilient to pressure than asphalt, pressure washing is generally discouraged unless performed by a professional.
High-pressure washing can strip the natural oils and fibers from cedar shingles, leading to a loss of flexibility and increased brittleness. This can cause the shingles to crack and split over time. Moreover, excessive moisture from pressure washing can promote mold and mildew growth, especially if the wood doesn’t dry out properly.
How to Clean Cedar Shingles
Cleaning cedar shingles should be done using methods that preserve the wood’s integrity. These methods include the following:
- Soft Washing. Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to gently rinse off dirt and debris. This method is effective for light cleaning and prevents damage to the wood fibers.
- Oxygen Bleach Solution. Apply an oxygen bleach solution to remove mold and mildew. Oxygen bleach is non-toxic and safe for the environment, making it an excellent choice for cleaning cedar shingles.
- Manual Scrubbing. A soft-bristle brush and mild cleaning solution can be used for more stubborn stains. Scrub gently to avoid damaging the wood.
- Sealing and Staining. After cleaning, consider applying a wood sealant or stain to protect the cedar from moisture and UV damage. This helps maintain the shingles’ appearance and extends their lifespan.
Can You Pressure Wash Composition Roof Shingles?
It is generally best not to pressure wash a composition shingle roof. This is because the high pressure of the machine can loosen the granules of the shingles. This will cause premature wear and tear. If you have a composition shingle roof, it is better to stick to the old-fashioned way of cleaning.
Can You Pressure Wash Tile Roofs?
Generally, you can pressure wash tile roofs, just as long as you exercise care. Tile tends to be more durable than composition, but that doesn’t mean it’s invincible. If you have stubborn filth and stains on your tile roof, a pressure washer can get those right out. However, if you have an old roof with brittle tiles, a pressure washer may knock the tiles out or damage them.
Can You Pressure Wash a Roof With a Skylight?
If you have a skylight, you must exercise a lot of care. Skylights offer a direct path into your home. As such, if you pressure wash near the skylight, you might blast water right into your house. Leaks are also possible.
To avoid this from happening, make sure to lay down plastic over and under your skylight. This will prevent water from seeping into the house.
The Benefits of Pressure Washing Shingles
Pressure washing shingles has its downsides when done by an amateur. However, with professional pressure washing, there are several benefits. First of all, you can extend the lifespan of the roof itself. When you clean your roof shingles regularly, you are reducing the pollutants and contaminants that stick to them. These contaminants can cause deterioration, so removing them will help with longevity.
Second, you can increase the curb appeal of your home. No one wants to see a filthy roof. Worse yet, a dirty roof can significantly compromise the overall appearance of your home, even if the rest of your house and lawn are pristine. If you want to make the most out of your investment and sell your home for a higher price in the future, you have to clean your roof regularly.
The Importance of Professional Pressure Washing
There are several reasons why hiring professionals to pressure wash your roof is crucial.
1. Experience and Expertise
Trained experts have the knowledge and experience to handle the equipment correctly, ensuring the pressure and technique do not damage the roof shingles. They understand the nuances of roofing materials and can adjust their methods to prevent stripping protective coatings or loosening shingles.
2. Special Solutions and Equipment
Professionals use specialized cleaning solutions and low-pressure washing systems that are safe and effective for cleaning roofs without causing harm. These methods are designed to remove algae, moss, and dirt without compromising the integrity of your shingles.
3. Safety Precautions
Professional roof cleaners have access to the necessary safety gear and training to work on roofs. This is especially important considering the risks associated with working at heights. Hiring experts minimizes the risk of accidents and injuries if you attempt to pressure wash your roof yourself.
4. Warranties
Many roofing manufacturers and insurers recommend or even require professional maintenance to keep warranties valid. Professionals can provide documented maintenance that helps ensure your roof remains covered under warranty, providing peace of mind and protecting your investment.
When is the Best Time to Clean Your Roof?
The best time to clean your roof is when it’s sunny. This way, you get a lot of light to illuminate your work area. Additionally, the sunlight will allow for faster drying. You don’t want your roof to retain moisture, as that can seep into the interior of your home. It can also cause mold and mildew growth.
Winter is usually a bad time for pressure washing shingles. This is because there is a shorter period of sunlight. Plus, winter can get extremely cold, so you risk letting the water turn into ice. Therefore, the best season to wash your roof is during the spring and summer months. You can also clean your shingle during fall, but don’t let the temperatures drop too low.
How Often Should You Wash Your Roof?
When you hire professionals for the job, your roof shouldn’t need to be washed very frequently. Professionals achieve great results, so it will take a while before you will need to schedule your next roof cleaning. Generally, you can get away with a roof pressure washing once a year every few years.
However, it will still depend on a few factors, including environment, weather, and the condition of your roof. In some places, roof shingles will get dirty in a shorter span of time. This may be due to harsh weather or the elements. You might have a lot of birds in your area, contributing to more bird droppings.
If your roof gets filthy at a much faster rate, then you may want to schedule more frequent washes. There is no hard-and-fast rule when it comes to how often you should clean your roof. Observe your roof and exercise good judgment. Sometimes, your roof may only even need a leaf blower to remove loose debris.
Implementing Preventive Maintenance
If you want to keep your roof clean for a longer span of time, preventive maintenance is the key. Make sure to regularly inspect your roof and brush away any debris. You can also sweep your roof for some surface-level cleaning.
To prevent a lot of buildup, schedule regular tree trimming for nearby trees. This will keep branches and leaves away from the roof, thereby avoiding accumulation. Furthermore, you should clean your gutters on a regular basis and keep an eye out for signs of mold as well as algae.
The Bottom Line
Pressure washing shingles, mainly asphalt and cedar, is generally not recommended due to the potential for significant damage. High-pressure water can strip protective coatings, loosen shingles, cause water leaks, and reduce the lifespan of your roof. Instead, opt for gentler cleaning methods such as soft washing for asphalt shingles and oxygen bleach solutions for cedar shingles.
Washh provides residential and commercial cleaning services, including roof cleaning. Call us today at 704.321.8000 or contact us online to get a free estimate!
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