Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material for homes in most of the United States. While they are cost-efficient and durable when well-maintained, improper pressure washing risks damaging them or ripping them off your roof.
Instead of using DIY methods, request pressure washing services from the professionals at The Service Pros. Whether your home’s roof uses asphalt shingles or other materials, we have the tools and experience to determine whether it can be safely pressure-washed without damaging it.
Assessing Your Roof Type
Roofs can be made from different materials and each has its own level of durability and resistance to the elements. This affects their suitability for different pressure-washing methods.
The Service Pros can perform hot-water power washing services, standard cold-water pressure washing and low-pressure, soft-wash techniques, depending on your roofing type. Here’s a breakdown of the most common home roofing materials and what solution we recommend for each:
Roofing material | Washing technique |
Asphalt shingles | Low-pressure soft-wash. Standard pressure washers generate enough pressure to rip the granules off the surface of your asphalt shingles or break them, damaging your roof. The Service Pros use soft-washing techniques and materials in accordance with guidelines by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA). These techniques are designed to remove dirt, grime, moss and other potential health hazards. |
Clay and concrete tiles | Standard pressure wash with wide-angle nozzle. Clay and concrete tiles are heavier and more durable than asphalt, so they resist higher washing pressures. However, even with the right equipment, individual tiles can be damaged. The Service Pros use wide-angle nozzles, lowering the pressure and spreading the water and cleaning solution over a broader area to limit the risk of cracking your tiles. |
Metal roofs | Power wash with a wide-angle nozzle. Metal roofs are among the most durable roofing materials for homes in North Carolina. They can withstand the higher temperatures of our power washing services. However, like with clay and concrete, our team will use wide-angle nozzles and specific washing techniques. They help protect your metal tiles from high pressures, which can dent them, bend the joints and seams or strip protective coatings. |
How Often Should You Get Your Roof Pressure Washed?
A professional soft-washing or pressure-washing service for your roof should last at least a few years. On average, you should book a cleaning service at least once every 2 to 4 years. However, you should consider more frequent washing services if:
You live near water. If your home is on the riverside or near a lake, such as Sunset Lake in Holly Springs or Lake Benson near Garner, it may be exposed to higher humidity levels. Your roofing materials may absorb and retain moisture, promoting the growth of moss, algae, mold and mildew. One of the best ways to prevent these issues is to schedule more frequent roof cleanings.
Your home is near dense vegetation. Roofs located under tree covers are more likely to attract leaves, twigs, bird droppings and organic debris. They can make your roof look dirtier and require more frequent pressure washing.
Your roof is older. Newer roofs typically don’t need any cleaning for a few years after installation due to their original protective coatings and appearance. The older your roof becomes, the more frequently it needs to be pressure washed.
Steps to Follow Before The Pros Pressure Wash Your Roof
If you’ve already booked a pressure washing service with us, you can take a few steps and measures to prepare your home before our arrival:
Clear the area. Pressure washing your roof will generate a lot of overspray. Remove any outdoor furniture, objects and decorations you don’t want splashed and cleaning solutions. If you can’t move them, protect them using waterproof tarps.
Keep the driveway and walkways free. When our team arrives, we’ll need easy access to your roof so we can set up and prepare our equipment. Move your vehicle into the garage or to another parking spot and ensure no objects or obstacles are on the walkways.
Prepare your gutters. Your roof gutters will catch most of the water and soap runoff. Check that the gutters are clean and free of debris. Then, check the downspouts and make sure they are in good condition and can handle the runoff. Aim the downspouts at drains or a safe location to prevent your belongings from being splashed or water-damaged.If your gutters aren’t ready for the job, let us know! We also offer other property maintenance services, including gutter cleaning, which we can perform before roof cleaning tasks.
Call The Service Pros for a Roof Washing Service Today
At The Service Pros, we believe your home is your greatest asset. Properly maintaining it is an excellent way to remove unsightly stains and preserve its curb appeal and market value. Contact us today to inquire about our roof washing services. We’ll help you keep your property in its best possible shape.
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