Roof cleaning is not the same as siding or clapboard washing, and it is not an exact science. Below we explain our process clearly so you can have accurate expectations before your service.
Please note: lichen, algae, and moss grow into the shingles, and can never be perfectly removed.
We soft wash — meaning we use water pressure only equivalent to a garden hose. More than that can cause shingles to lift and allow water to find its way into your roof or ceilings, similar to what ice backup can do in the winter.
We use a foaming biodegradable cleaning solution that is safe for pets, humans, and landscaping. This solution sits on the shingles for approximately 15 minutes and kills all of the moss, algae, and lichen.
The black streaks are a type of algae and will come off the same day of service. The green areas are moss and/or lichen. Although they will be killed that day, there will be grey and white residue remaining on the roof that comes off over time with rain. The reason it does not disappear immediately is because the organism needs to die down to its roots, and then rain gradually washes it away. With normal weekly rainfall, this process typically takes 30 to 60 days.
Some homeowners choose to pay to have the residue manually scraped off. We do not offer this service for two reasons: manually scraping shingles can damage or ruin them, and we do not send our crew onto the roof surface itself due to safety and liability concerns.
CAN THIS PROCESS HARM THE ROOF?
Only if the manufacturer guidelines are not followed — specifically, walking on the roof or using high-pressure power washing. We strictly follow manufacturer guidelines using our hot water soft washing process, which means low pressure and no foot traffic on the roof surface. In over six years of roof washing service, we have never had an incident of roof leakage.
WHAT DOES PREP WORK MEAN?
Prep work includes rinsing down landscaping before and after treatment, tarping landscaping where necessary, and setting up ladders and wands to service the roof.
DO YOU USE MY WATER?
Both. We bring approximately 250 gallons of water to your property and also refill our tank from your outside faucet as needed during the wash. It refills only at the rate your faucet runs.
DO I NEED TO BE HOME?
No — you do not need to be present while the work is performed. Most of our customers are at work during service.
DO YOU RESCHEDULE FOR WEATHER?
Yes. For roof washing, we schedule service on a mostly dry day and will reschedule if weather conditions are not suitable.
WHAT IS YOUR GUARANTEE?
We guarantee our roof cleaning for 3 years from the service date. If necessary, we will return and re-treat at no charge.
HOW LONG DO RESULTS LAST?
Three or more years, depending on the amount of sunlight and regular drying the roof receives, and how many trees and wetlands are nearby.