We’ve talked about how important it is to maintain your roof, but there are some things you should keep in mind as you do so. For example, do you know that power washing roof shingles could damage them? And do you know all the safety measures that should be taken when cleaning your roof?
In addition to never using pressure washers on your roof, there are many other do’s and don’ts of roof maintenance that you should keep in mind before, during and after your work.
The Do’s
Use a sprayer attached to a garden hose for roof washing.
Use one quart of bleach with one gallon of water and 1/4 cup heavy-duty cleaner, such as trisodium phosphate, to wash your roof. For a greener alternative, try a solution of 8 ounces of Dawn dish liquid, 2 1/2 cups of white distilled vinegar and 2 gallons of water.
Remember to clear your gutters regularly, particularly in the spring and fall.
Keep your eyes open for icicles. Unusual, repetitive or excessive icicle formation may indicate that your attic or another area of your home needs maintenance.
If you are going to maintain your roof on your own, invest in proper safety equipment, including a sturdy ladder, and read up on safety techniques. When washing your roof, be sure to wear slip-resistant shoes. The water can make the roof more slippery than ever, so take every necessary precaution to protect yourself.
Watch out for any electrical lines overhead.
When you are finished clearing and washing your roof and gutters, consider applying a moss inhibitor or other preventive solution. Use it according to the directions, which may include rinsing the material off later.
When washing your roof or performing othermaintenance, be sure to invest in the proper safety equipment to protectyourself and your home. When in doubt, hire a professional roofing contractorto maintain your roof for you.
The Don’ts
Do not power wash roof shingles. Doing so could damage the shingles, the adhesive between the shingles, roof vents, skylights, solar panels, electrical wiring and even the interior of your home.
With the exception of professionally installed solar panels, do not attach anything directly onto your roof. This includes holiday decor, lighting and basketball nets. Doing so may weaken the shingles and create small holes in the roof.
Avoid walking on the roof more than necessary. You could damage the roof and endanger yourself.
Never lift your shingles. You could cause further damage by breaking the seals.
Do not use abrasive tools, such as hard-bristle brooms.
Do not place new roofing materials over existing roofing materials in an effort to strengthen the structure or improve the appearance. The existing materials will continue to break down underneath the newer materials, and the newer materials won’t be as sturdy as they should be.
Contact Us for More Information about Roof Washing and Maintenance
One of the most important “do’s” of roof washing and overall maintenance is to hire someone to do it for you if you are unsure about how to do it on your own. If not, you could endanger yourself, damage your home, create a messy situation and not gain the results you expect from the time and money you spent.
In addition to safely washing your roof and maintaining your gutters, you may wish to hire a professional company to inspect your roof to begin with as well. A professional can inspect your roof safely and may be able to recognize issues that you do not.
