We often neglect roof TLC since we spend more time inside our homes, keeping our kitchens and bathrooms clean. However, your roof is a large part of your home and, even if its subconsciously, you’ll notice when it starts getting really dirty. But do we even need to clean it? And how often should you clean your roof? In this article we’ll explore why it’s important to clean your roof, how you know when it’s time for some roof TLC, how often you should be cleaning it, and whether or not it should be a DIY project or time to hire some professionals.
Besides the curb appeal of having a clean roof, it can actually be more energy efficient too. Your roof will get dirtier over time as it gathers dirt and debris, and serves as a new home for algae, moss, and even mould. A roof with a ton of build-up can absorb more heat which, in Summer, can cause your energy bill to increase from all the air-conditioning.
In addition to this, all the mould and algae living on your roof can create a breeding ground for allergens and harmful microorganisms. These organisms can release spores into the air which can be potential health hazards to you and your family. So, if you don’t feel like cleaning your roof just for the aesthetics, at least do it for your health!
Apart from all of the above, very important reasons for why you should clean your roof, the most obvious reason is to prevent damage. Build-up on your roof can lead to structural damage and compromise the integrity of your roof. So, cleaning your roof helps to prevent these issues, which will not only extend the lifespan of your roof but also save you the cost of repairs or a premature replacement.
We know why it’s important to clean your roof, but let’s be realistic; just because you see some dirt on your roof doesn’t necessarily mean that your roof needs cleaning right away. So here are some things to look out for:
Roof cleaning isn’t as easy as cleaning the kitchen counters, it’s a big task, so how often should you clean your roof? It’s easy to say at least once a year, however, it really depends on a few factors. One of these is the material your roof is made of. For example, asphalt shingles are more prone to algae growth than metal or tile roofs so you may need to clean them more often, while other materials might need a little less TLC.
Although, visual signs are probably the best tell for if it’s time to clean your roof. This seems self-explanatory – if you notice dark streaks, discoloration, or moss growth then it’s a sign that your roof needs a good cleaning. In extreme cases you should address it as soon as possible to prevent any damage to your roof.
Your roof won’t necessarily need cleaning every year because of moss or algae, mainly because it takes time to grow. However, it is a good idea to clean it annually just to get rid of any debris or dirt build up that occurs to avoid the issues discussed earlier in the article. Fortunately, a yearly roof inspection usually includes cleaning debris from your roof and gutters, and professional roofers can give you a good idea for a cleaning schedule specifically for the type of roof you have.
Roof cleaning can be a DIY project if you’re comfortable working at heights and have the necessary equipment, especially if you’re just cleaning out dead leaves or dirt from the roof and gutters. However, just because you can doesn’t mean you should. You don’t want to end up damaging your roof by cleaning it in the wrong way. Professionals are professionals for a reason so it might be better to just hire a roof cleaning service to make sure that the job is done properly.
Your roof deserves some attention and care too, and cleaning your roof is not only for the curb appeal, but also extends its lifespan and keeps your home safe and energy-efficient. We hope this article has helped you understand why it’s important to keep your roof clean, how to tell if it’s time for some roof TLC and how often you should clean your roof. Our team at Morgner Roofing will happily assist you with yearly maintenance if it’s not a project you feel confident to DIY!
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