Keeping your roof tiles clean is important to maintain the structural integrity of your homes. With time algae, moss, fungi and dirt can grow there and cause severe damage. Many homeowners use a pressure washer to clean the area and remove it. But it is not a feasible option as it does more harm to your building than good. By using a pressure washer you can damage your roof tiles as protective coatings can be damaged and water can seep through. Fortunately, there are some ways where you can avoid using this and clean roof tiles without pressure washer. In this guide, you will get to know all sorts of secret techniques through which you can clean your roof tiles without using a pressure washer. Hop on the ride with us to ace it all.
Why Avoid a Pressure Washer?
Before we begin it is important to know why you should avoid a pressure washer to clean your tiles. Yes, it is used for exterior cleaning but it is not suitable for your roofs. Why so? Because it can damage the mortar on your roof making them susceptible to breakage. The pressure that comes from a washer can break your tiles and strip away the protective layers. This can cause leakage and compromise the aesthetic appeal of your buildings.
If an individual uses it occasionally, it won’t cause much damage. However, using it frequently for every roof tile cleaning session can weaken the structure of your roof. It can remove the dirt and the moss temporarily but on the other hand, it also speeds up the growth of algae, making it a frustrating situation to deal with. Don’t worry! You can avoid all this by using other sustainable and eco-friendly techniques that can preserve the structural integrity of your buildings.
Essential Safety Precautions Before Cleaning Roof Tiles
Safety comes first always! Whenever you’re working with your roofs you have to take some precautionary measures to protect yourself and your property. Because you’re standing at a high place you should wear non-slip shoes, tear-resistant gloves, and a safety harness to prevent any sort of accidents. Next, ensure that your ladder is stable and you have a helper to hold it in for your safety.
Before starting make sure the weather is suitable for the cleaning process. If it is a rainy or windy day do not clean your roof as you can fall over or get injured.
Also, cover the surrounding areas including vegetation, gutters or pathways with a plastic shield. This is necessary as the cleaning solutions or debris can fall over them, harming your landscapes.
Best Methods to Clean Roof Tiles Without Pressure Washer
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Manual Cleaning with a Soft Brush
If you want the safest way to clean your tiles, try a soft bristle brush. It takes effort but gives good results. It is a gentle yet powerful method to remove all sorts of dirty, algae without damaging the tiles.
How to do it?
Remove the loose debris with a dry brush. This stops the surface from becoming slippery when wet. Scrub the tiles with a damp brush on small sections. Move the brush in circles and work from top to bottom to avoid pressing dirt into the cleaned area. If stubborn stains appear on your roof, dip the brush into a soft cleaning solution. This helps break down the grease. After manual cleaning rinse the tiles with a garden hose using low water pressure.
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Using a Roof Cleaning Solution
The next method is user friendly. It involves the use of a roof cleaning solution. This is when the dirt and moss are embedded in your roof tiles and cannot be simply removed by just scrubbing. You can use two types of solutions:
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DIY cleaning solution:
DIY cleaning solutions are a mixture of some ingredients which are available for every homeowner. Just mix some white vinegar with water or baking soda with dish soap. The abrasive properties of your solutions will help break down dirt safely.
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Biodegradable commercial roof cleaners:
You also go the easy way and buy a commercial roof cleaner. They are available in any retail store. These solutions have some specific enzymes that help remove the algae and moss in real-time.
How to do it?
First, dampen the garden sprayer and apply the cleaning solution. Allow it to stay there so that it can break down the dirt and moss. After about 30 minutes, gently scrub the roof before using the water sprayer. Make sure that you do not use bleach as it can erode your tiles and harm your plants as well.
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Removing Moss and Algae Natural
Moss and algae can grow very rapidly in a damp environment. Our roofs are their favorite hub to thrive in. If you do not address its growth in time, it can deteriorate the quality of the tiles by trapping moisture. To deal with them you can install copper or zinc strips. By installing them at the ridges of the roof, you can prevent future growth. So whenever it rains, these metals will release some particles while inhibiting the growth of algae and moss.
You can also sprinkle some baking soda to inhibit the moss growth and kill it. It will dry out and after a few days will display in a brown color, making it easier to brush away. Similarly, an effective method to break the patches of algae is by using white vinegar and water.
Preventing Future Roof Tile Buildup
Regular Roof Maintenance Tips
You can avoid major cleaning projects if you take care of your roof tiles regularly. This helps your tiles last longer and gives them protection. Experts usually recommend a clean-up once or twice a year. Further, it is recommended to prune overgrown trees which are in the vicinity of our roof area. This prevents the falling of debris onto the roof, thereby contributing to the buildup of dirt. Lastly, check every season for any signs of moss or dirt.
Installing a Roof Protection System
You can install a roof protection system as well to provide long-term protection. A water-repellant sealant is also a viable option that can build a protective barrier against moisture. These preventative measures can protect your roof for years to come.
Opt for a professional service
A professional roof cleaner at times is the best option out there to ensure a thorough clean up. If your tiles are difficult to reach and it is dangerous for you to do it by yourself then you should consider hiring an expert. They can easily facilitate the cleaning process safely without causing any damage. It is an expensive option but still worth it when it comes to our well-being and safety.
Conclusion
All in all, an individual can utilize many ways to clean their roof without pressure washer. You can keep your roof tiles free from dirt, moss, and algae by opting for eco-friendly and sustainable methods. This will keep your dwellings thriving in your landscapes. Looking for a professional? Contact Superior Tech Solution to assist you in finding a reputable cleaning service. They are a trusted company that helps homeowners find certified professionals.
