How to Clean Roof Shingles

How to Clean a Shingled Roof

A filthy roof is more than an eyesore. Without periodic care, excess debris can lead to costly problems and hazardous complications. To keep these unfavorable occurrences at bay, Action Roofing in Billerica, MA, is here to reveal how to clean a shingled roof without risking damage, injury, or error.

Your Guide to Cleaning Different Types of Roof Shingles

As a leader in wood, composite, and asphalt roof shingles, Action Roofing is here to eliminate the roof cleaning guesswork. With extensive knowledge regarding various types of roof shingles, we are here to explore the most effective maintenance strategies to preserve and enhance your Billerica, MA, property.

The Importance of Cleaning Roof Shingles

A roof plagued by dirt is certainly unsightly. However, that is not the primary concern when it comes to filthy roofing systems. With consistent exposure to external elements, roofs will inevitably develop some form of buildup. If this debris is not periodically removed, it will begin to impact the integrity of the roofing materials. 

The Risks of Neglected Roofing Shingles

Inclement weather factors, UV rays, algae, fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris are far more invasive than you may think. When a roof is not regularly cleaned and maintained, it becomes vulnerable to a host of risks, including:

• Loose, damaged, or missing shingles
• Leaks and water damage
• Decreased structural integrity
• Recurring repairs and/or full replacements

How to Clean Your Roof Shingles: The Basics

Action Roofing has mastered the art of cleaning and maintaining roofing shingles. To set you up for success, let’s start by going over the basics. No matter the type of roof shingles you own, effective roof cleaning relies on three key factors: safety precautions, tools, and the proper techniques.

Prioritize Safety Precautions

Roof cleaning poses a number of hazards that must be taken seriously. To mitigate the risk of accidents, injuries, and severe damage, prioritize precautionary safety measures, including:

• Do not tackle this project alone
• Wear non-slip shoes and a securely fastened harness
• Properly position your ladder so it remains stable 
• Choose the appropriate weather conditions.

Recommended Tools & Materials

Now that we understand how to safely tackle these projects, it’s time to make a list of tools and materials to get the job done right. Our cleaning equipment recommendations include:

• Ladder
• Soft-bristle brush or broom
• Garden hose and pressure nozzle
• Selected cleaning solutions, including vinegar, bleach, or commercial cleaning agents
• Rubber gloves
• Protective eyewear

Selecting the Appropriate Cleaning Agent

When it comes to how to clean a shingled roof, you have options. Different types of roof shingles call for different types of cleaning agents. For the best results, we recommend:

• Asphalt and/or Composite Shingles – Bleach-based, commercial cleaners, or vinegar
• Cedar Roof Shingles – Wood cleaner and water
• Metal Roof Shingles – Dish soap/detergent and water

Step One: Roof Inspection

Cleaning a shingled roof begins with an inspection to detect symptoms of wear, damage, loose, or missing shingles. If you come across any of these issues, it’s important to have them remedied by a professional prior to attempting a cleaning project. If your roof is in good condition, you can move on to the dry cleaning stage.  

Step Two: Dry Cleaning

For effective results, shingled roof cleaning calls for a preliminary dry-cleaning process. This involves removing any loose buildup, such as leaves, dirt, and twigs. We recommend using a soft-bristled brush or broom and gentle pressure to wipe away debris.

Step Three: Wet Cleaning

Once dry-cleaning is complete, it's time for the wet-cleaning process. Begin by pre-rinsing the roof using a garden hose with a pressure nozzle. Next, mix your cleaning solution and apply it to the roof, paying close attention to saturate areas affected by algae and wait 20-30 minutes before scrubbing to loosen the stubborn buildup. 

Step Four: Stubborn Buildup & Stains

After 30 minutes, you can return to your roof to tackle any tough stains that may still be visible. To alleviate these unsightly stains, apply cleaner to a soft brush, sponge, or cloth and scrub in a circular motion. For severe discoloration, this process may need to be repeated. 

Step Five: Final Rinse

Once you've completed steps one through four, you can give your shingled roof a good rinse. To prevent chemical runoff, place plastic tarps at the base of your home's foundation prior to rinsing the cleaning agent.

Additional Shingled Roof Maintenance Strategies

Cleaning your shingled roof is highly beneficial. However, if you’re looking to reinforce the integrity of your investment, there are subsequent maintenance strategies you may consider adopting, including:

• Clean or upgrade your gutters to prevent obstructions, leaks, and water damage
• Trim nearby vegetation and overhang
• Schedule periodic professional roofing inspections with Action Roofing

Protect & Enhance Your Shingled Roof with Action Roofing

Whether you're seeking guidance on how to clean dirty roof shingles, or you've detected signs of damage, you've come to the right place. From preventative care to repairs and replacements, Action Roofing has you covered. Contact us today to protect and enhance your shingled roofing system.