Installing a quality roof is one of the most essential and expensive investments you can make in your home. Naturally, you want to maximize the value of this investment and avoid additional expenditures by making sure it regularly receives proper San Diego roof maintenance.Â
Although it may not be immediately obvious, proper cleaning is a major part of keeping your shingles and the underlying structure healthy over the long term. But how is roof cleaning performed? Can you do it yourself, or do you have to hire the pros to do it for you?
We previously explained why roof cleaning is so important and gave you some time-tested roof maintenance tips every homeowner should know. Now we’ve prepared a short guide on how to keep your roof clean and streak-free all year long. Keep reading to learn more.Â
How do I clean my roof?
Much of the debris that gets on your roof comes from the surrounding trees, so make sure to trim their branches on a regular basis. Furthermore, you can use a garden hose to remove any debris such as fallen leaves without having to actually climb onto the roof.Â
Here’s how to keep your roof tidy:
1. Prepare yourself accordingly
Wear overalls, long sleeves, and rubber gloves while cleaning. Use a strong ladder with rubber feet that can be firmly affixed to the roof.Â
Useful cleaning supplies include:
*Dustpan
*Small brush
*Leaf blower
*Garden hose
2. Clean the gutters
Clogged gutters can be a serious problem, so make sure to give them a good cleaning. An easy way to do this is by using the leaf blower on them before washing the rooftop.
3. Remove debris
Blow off any twigs and leaves with the leaf blower, then swipe off whatever remains with the small brush. Manually pick up any rubbish that’s still sticking to the roof.
4. Wash the roof
Identify any stains and patches of fungi or moss and hose them down. Afterward, apply your cleaning solution as per manufacturer instructions. Repeat as many times as necessary until the roof is clean.Â
How often do you need to clean your roof?
As a rule of thumb, you should give your roof a good cleaning or, better yet, schedule roof maintenance, at least once a year. However, certain factors can cause your roof to get dirty faster and to therefore require more frequent cleanings.
Key factors include:
*Trees and vegetation: Heavily wooded neighborhoods cause roofs to accumulate leaves, bird droppings, dead insects, and other debris much faster than homes in downtown districts.Â
*Weather. Living in a rainy or cold climate, or an area that gets regular dust storms, will naturally result in a much dirtier roof.Â
What is the best roof cleaning product?
Always get the cleaning chemicals that are appropriate for the material your roof is made of (eg., asphalt shingle cleaner for asphalt shingle roofs). Read the instructions on the label before applying the product and make sure to wear the recommended protection.
Rainfall can cause some of these chemicals to mix with water and damage the nearby plant life, so if this is a concern to you remember to purchase a plant-friendly cleaner.Â
Who should I call when I need top-notch San Diego roof maintenance?
It’s no secret that roof cleaning can be an exhausting, time-consuming, and dangerous task. Unless you absolutely know what you’re doing, it’s always better to outsource your roof maintenance to a reputable contractor such as 619 Roofing.Â
We provide our clients in San Diego with the full range of roofing services, including roof repair, maintenance, re-roofing, tear-off, and more. Our emergency teams are available 24/7 and can quickly show up at your property regardless of whether you’re located in Morena or at the very center of the city. Contact us today.Â