Roof Cleaning

What are the Average Costs of Roof Cleaning?

The national average cost of roof cleaning is $412.

Typically, homeowners have spent anything between $294 and $569, with the lower end being $150 and the higher end about $860.

The cost of cleaning your roof depends on a number of factors. They are:

• Type of roof material
• Size, design, height and slope
• Location
• Moss and algae

Let’s look at each one in detail.

Type of Roof Material

You may already be aware that roofs are available in various kinds of materials. Hence, the cleaning solutions also differ according to the roof.

For instance, asphalt roof shingles are one of the most common roof materials used. They are designed to wear out slowly over time and are delicate and layered.

For such roofs, low pressure-washing with no more than 30 psi – similar to a garden sprayer is recommended.

Similarly, roofs that are made up of materials like ceramic, clay, concrete or slate – all of them require different cleaning methods and solutions.

So the roof cleaning costs will depend on the type of roof material of your home.

Size, Design, Height and Slope of the Roof

Size and slope of the roof will also determine the roof cleaning costs. The bigger and more complex the design of the roof, the costlier it will be to clean it. Other things that affect the cost are gutters and gross area of the roof.

Another factor that can affect the cost is the height of your roof. For instance, if your home is two stories high, it will need more equipment and more work for the professionals to get up there.

The slope of your roof is also another factor that can affect the roof cleaning costs. If it’s very steep, then you may be asked to pay extra as the professionals need to get up there and stay safely on top while cleaning it.

Location

The cost of cleaning your roof will be directly affected by where you live. For instance, if you live close to a beach or where it snows a lot, then the roof will gather mold, dirt and grime faster than if you’re living in the city.

Moss and Algae

Cleaning moss and algae is extremely important. If your house is surrounded by large trees that produce plenty of shade on the roof, then it accelerates the growth of moss and algae.

Rain increases the moisture levels that causes accumulation of moss. It can block the gutters too.

The growth of moss causes dark stains and keeps the roofing materials wet for long. This aggravates rotting of wood and eroding of asphalt shingles.

So the more moss and algae, the more expensive it will be to get your roof cleaned.

What are the Different Types of Roof Cleaning Products Used by Professionals?

Most roof cleaning companies will use the following products to clean your roof. Of course, it completely depends on the roof material.

Oxygen Based Products

Mold frequently develops on asphalt roof shingles. Oxygen based products eliminate roof fungus and algae. They are widely used products and work well to remove mold stains and other stains.

Chlorine Bleach

They will apply this on areas of your roof that have mildew and mold.

Copper Sulphate

They may use this as an alternative to chlorine bleach for eliminating mildew, mold, fungus and algae.

Emulsifiers

These are designed for metal roofs. They are ideal for galvanized roofing. Emulsifiers dissolve the dirt, grime and grease.

Tri-Sodium Phosphate

It is an effective cleaning agent that eliminates mold and mildew. General stains on the roof will also be cleared with an application of Tri-Sodium Phosphate.

Eco-Friendly Cleaners

There are many products designed with environmental safety as an important priority. These products do not use heavy metals, harsh acids, lye or phosphates, yet they clean the roof very well.

Scrappers

These are very useful when they need to get rid of rust and loose paint. Metal roofs require scrappers during the cleaning process.

Brushes

Long-handled brushes are essential to sweep off accumulated dirt from the roof surface. Wire brushes are also very useful in getting rid of rust or loose paint.

What Should You Check Before You Hire a Professional Roof Cleaning Company Near You?

License – All local and state business licenses.

Proof of Insurance – Proof of both, workman’s compensation and liability insurance.

Business Stability – Find out how long the company has been in business. The more experience, the better!

Check Reviews Online – Visit review sites like Yelp to find out about various roof cleaning companies in your area.

References – Ask for references. If possible, call and find out about the work, timeliness, cost and whether the clients would use the company again.

Over the Phone Pricing –  Not recommended at all! No professional company can give an estimate without looking at the roof.

Free Estimates – Ask for free estimates, most companies will oblige.

Safety Record – Roof cleaning is a dangerous task. Hire a company that doesn’t have a high incidence of on-the-job mishaps or injuries.

Building Codes – In certain areas, you’ll need to make sure that the local company meets all building code requirements.

Satisfaction Guarantee – Choose a company that offers a satisfaction guarantee. It will ensure that they get the job done right the first time, and save you money and frustration in the long run.

Cleanup – Cleaning the roof can leave a lot of mess behind. Ask about the cleanup services they offer.