For most homeowners, it’s common knowledge that the gutters need to be cleaned twice a year. The best way to keep them neat and tidy after you’ve gone to all that trouble is to clear the roof off first. A popular attitude regarding cleaning roofs is that the wind will blow away any organic debris sooner or later. But if left hanging around, it typically ends up in the gutters! Your roofing system is the most important part of your home because of the role it plays in protecting your home from the elements. Reasons you might need professional roof cleaning include longevity, curb appeal, and energy efficiency.
Roof Lasts Longer
Just like with the gutters, regular fall home maintenance will prolong the life of your roof. Living organisms such as algae and moss eat into roofing materials. You can replace shingles on an as-needed basis, but piecemeal repairs reduce a roof’s lifespan by years and eventually it will have to be replaced anyway. Since it’s an organism that retains water, when moss, for example, takes a hold of a roof, it can add unwanted weight to the roofing system, causing stress to structural supports. Removing algae, moss, mold, or lichens from roofing shingles before they can do too much harm will help make the roof last longer.
Large House and/or Steep Roof
When you’re used to DIY projects, you might think that cleaning the roof is something you could do. However, before making a final decision whether to DIY or to hire a professional, here are some things to consider:
- Your house is two or more stories
- The roof configuration includes hard-to-access places
- The roof is steep
- Proper cleaning techniques for the material your roof is made of
When you hire a professional roofing contractor to clean the roof of your home, they will use the right techniques and cleaning products, take the proper safety measures, and identify problem areas that might not be obvious to a do-it-yourselfer.
Improve Curb Appeal
The negative impact of a roof that is not regularly maintained can be subtle. But over time, the accumulation of dirt and grime can discolor roofing tiles and streak soffit and fascia. In a good windstorm or after a heavy rainfall, tiles can go missing. When a roof is cleaned and maintained on a regular basis, improved curb appeal makes your home look well-cared for and can boost resale value.
Maintain Energy Efficiency
Asphalt roofs, for example, are designed to protect shingles from the harsh effects of UV rays. As algae or moss builds up on the roof, it covers the roofing shingles, allowing tiles to retain heat. In summer, a homeowner might turn the air conditioning up to keep the house cool, making a home less energy efficient.
