Can You Clean Asphalt Shingles: Chicago Roofer Tips to Clean Roof Shingles
Should asphalt shingles be cleaned and can you power wash asphalt shingles? The answer to both questions is yes. Protecting your roof from potential damage to the shingles requires constant and high-quality maintenance. But how do you do it? Read on to find out useful tips to delay roof replacement and a complete guide to keeping your roof clean.
Safety First: How to Clean Your Asphalt Shingle Roof Safely?
How to clean a asphalt shingle roof properly and safely? First, when cleaning the roof, you really need to take care of the safety of the roof and the surrounding area.
Do not use a pressure washer with too much pressure unless you have experience with it. High pressure can damage the protective granules on the shingles, which will lead to rapid wear and may cause leaks. Therefore, gentle cleaning with low-pressure and environmentally friendly products is recommended.
Basic safety measures:
- Use secure ladders, non-slip shoes, and safety harnesses when working at heights.
- Protect plants around the house from possible chemical contamination by covering them with plastic or watering them before and after cleaning.
- Avoid working in windy or rainy weather to reduce the risk of falling.
- Wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator to protect yourself from chemicals.
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Tools and Materials for Easy Roof Asphalt Shingles Cleaning
Basic tools for cleaning an asphalt shingle roof:
- A ladder – stable and on a flat surface for safe access to the roof.
- Safety equipment – shoes with non-slip soles, safety belt, and goggles.
- Garden hose – long enough to reach all areas of the roof.
- Garden sprayer – for even application of cleaning products.
- Soft brush – for delicate cleaning of tiles without damage.
- Bucket – for mixing solutions.
Now let’s discuss the environmental friendliness of this process. First of all, use environmentally friendly detergents that do not harm the environment when you clean and maintain your shingles. In addition, protect the surrounding vegetation from the cleaning solution, as some chemicals can harm flowers and lawns.
Step-by-Step Guide: Asphalt Shingles Cleaning Process
Step 1: Inspect the Roof for Damage or Debris
Periodically inspect the roof for damage, missing or broken shingles, loss of granules, debris buildup, and structural problems. Check gutters and sealants and also look for signs of damage inside the house.
Step 2: Protect the Plants and Foundation Areas
First, protect the plants from chemicals. Water the plants before cleaning and cover them with plastic wrap. Then create a barrier for the chemicals to run off. Use non-toxic cleaning agents. After cleaning the roof, rinse the plants and check their condition periodically.
Step 3: Clean Roof Shingles and Remove Loose Debris from Your Roof
In the third step, remove debris from the roof. Use a leaf blower or soft brush to remove leaves and branches. Do not use metal tools to avoid damaging the shingles.
Step 4: Prepare and Apply the Appropriate Cleaning Product
Select a suitable asphalt shingle cleaning solution (chemical or natural product). Prepare the cleaning solution according to the instructions and test it on a small area of the roof. If everything is fine, apply the cleaning solution evenly to the roof and leave it on for a while (also according to the instructions). Finally, rinse the roof thoroughly with water.
Step 5: Use Soft-Bristled Brushes to Tackle Moss, Lichen, and Algae
How to remove from asphalt shingles debris and other dirt? Use soft brushes to remove moss, lichen, and algae. Gently clean your roof shingles, avoiding excessive pressure. Ensure your own safety when working and rinse the roof with water after cleaning.
Step 6: Rinse the Roof with a Pressure Washer and Clean the Surrounding Plants
Rinse with clean water under low or high pressure to remove all residual products. When finished, remove the films from the plants and spray them with water to remove any residual chemicals.
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Washing Asphalt Shingles Tips for Chicago Homeowners
We’ve put together some basic tips for regular roof inspections:
- Have your roof inspected twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall, and after severe storms or hail.
- Check shingles for damage (cracks, curling, or loss of granules), especially near chimneys, vents, and skylights.
- Look for signs of moisture, mold, or stains on the inside of the roof, as these can indicate leaks.
- Make sure gutters are clear of debris for efficient water drainage to avoid moisture buildup on the roof.
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Benefits: Why Hire the Best Roof Cleaner for Asphalt Shingles?
First, professional roof cleaning services ensure safety and expertise. Professionals use the proper equipment and techniques to safely and effectively clean your roof without risking damage to your shingles.
Second, asphalt shingle cleaners can identify potential problems early on. During the roof cleaning process, they may notice damaged or worn areas of the roof that you can repair in time to avoid serious costs in the future.
Third, cleaning protects your roof from the elements. In Chicago, with its hot summers and cold winters, organic dirt and debris can retain moisture, which accelerates shingle wear. Professional cleaning reduces these risks.
Last but not least, cleaning prevents relatively shortening the time of the roof’s service and improves the aesthetic view of the house. Cleaning eliminates moss, algae, and stains on the roof making the roof functional as well as beautifying the face of the home which is useful for increasing its value.
Conclusion
Let’s summarize, if you keep your Chicago roof cleaned regularly and make timely repairs to minor issues, those asphalt shingles won’t need replacing for more than 20 years. If not, the buildup of dirt, algae, and moss can lead to damage your shingles and structural problems. We recommend ordering professional roof cleaning from local roofing companies, as our specialists know all the ins and outs of this process and will be able to conduct a thorough diagnosis that will reveal hidden damage. This is beneficial both in the long run and for the quality of any roofing work.
FAQ
Can cleaning my roof prevent long-term damage?
For example, regular cleaning an asphalt roof can significantly extend the lifespan of your roof. When dirt, moss, or lichen accumulates on the roof, it creates a moist environment that promotes algae and moss growth and material deterioration.
Why is it important to clean your asphalt shingles after Chicago’s winter months?
After winter, snow, ice, and dirt can remain on the roof, causing damage to the tiles. During the cleaning process, experts help prevent algae and moisture penetration and improve the condition of the roof before the next season.
What are the signs that indicate my roof needs professional cleaning services?
If you see stains, moss, or algae on your roof, or if you notice damaged wood shingles, it may be a sign that cleaning is needed. In addition, regular inspections can reveal problems that require professional intervention.
Can roof cleaning services be combined with other maintenance services like inspections or repairs?
If you see stains, moss, or algae on your roof, or if you notice damaged shingles, it may be a sign that cleaning is needed. However, it’s best to have your roof cleaned regularly, rather than when it already shows significant signs of damage or contamination.
Will cleaning my roof increase the lifespan of my asphalt shingles?
So, if you clean a roof regularly, it will have a much longer service life. This reduces the amount of dirt, moss, and other contaminants, which if allowed to build upon the surface, will cause a lot of harm to the material’s longevity. In addition, a clean roof better resists the effects of weather conditions.