Is Pressure Washing Roof Shingles A Good Idea?

Is pressure washing roof shingles a good idea to consider when you want to pressure wash your property?

As a homeowner, it’s important to maintain the appearance and functionality of your home’s exterior, including your roof.

Over time, your roof shingles can accumulate dirt, debris, and unwanted growths like algae and moss. While there are many ways to clean your roof, pressure washing has become a popular option.

But is pressure washing your roof shingles a good idea? In this article, we will discuss the benefits and potential drawbacks of pressure washing your roof, so you can make an informed decision about the best way to keep your home looking its best.

Pros Pressure Washing Roof Shingles You Need To Know

You need to check for the advantages of pressure washing roof shingles. The best is what you always want for your house and your family. So, the listed pros are some things you need to ponder before you pressure wash your roof shingles.

Increased Curb Appeal

Pressure washing can remove dirt, debris, and stains from your roof shingles, giving your home a clean look. The home’s curb appeal will increase if the roof cleaning method is correct.

This is one of the reasons pressure cleaning is needed, if not crucial. The above items build up on the roof, making it appear soiled, discolored, mossy, and neglected.

Washing all these substances away returns the roof’s exterior to its pristine state. This is quite beneficial when trying to sell your house.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Dirty shingles can trap heat and make your home’s cooling system work harder, leading to higher energy bills. Exterior pressure washing can help remove this buildup and improve energy efficiency.

If your roof is poorly maintained, it can cause high energy bills. For example, when your roof is covered by moss, algae growth, and rotten shingles, the sun won’t reflect on your home.

A roof must reflect sunlight to keep the attic and home cooler and reduce energy costs for heating and cooling. So, roof cleaning is important to remove fungal growth and other debris on your roof.

Longer Roof Life

By removing buildup and debris from your shingles, pressure washing can help extend the life of your roof.

Your roof will last longer and cost less if its shingles or tiles are preserved by pressure cleaning. Debris, algae, mold, lichens, and mildew progressively accumulate over time on your roof and discolor the materials that make it up.

Additionally, they block water collection by interfering with the waterlines on your roof. These items can potentially harm your roof and necessitate its replacement if they are not looked for and cleaned up in a timely manner.

A pressure washer helps a shingle roof prolong its life; it must be used properly. Protect your investment by having your roof pressure washed by a professional.

Effective Cleaning

Roof pressure washing can effectively remove dirt, algae, moss, and other debris from the surface of shingles, restoring their original appearance and improving the overall curb appeal of your home.

Eliminate pests and protect your home’s health.

Algae and mold growths can invade your attic through the roof, causing problems for your air conditioning unit.

They may raise health issues, such as allergies in your family members and pets. They might also cause the roof’s support structure to deteriorate.

In addition to attracting crawling insects and even small mice that enter your home through the disintegrating roof shingles, the accumulation of items like falling leaves, dust, twigs, filth, and other materials can also attract them.

Cons Of Using A Pressure Washer On Your Shingle Roof

Roof cleaning is not always easy, especially if you are not experienced enough. Whether it is a power or soft wash, being knowledgeable is an edge. Here is the thing to remember if you want to do it yourself.

Damage to Shingles

High pressure on your roof can potentially damage your shingles, especially if they’re old or already weakened. This can lead to costly repairs down the line. A dirty roof must be cleaned (tile, shingle, or asphalt roof).

Risk of Injury

Climbing up on your roof to pressure wash it can be dangerous, especially if you’re not used to working at heights. A catastrophic injury could result from one slip-up.

Pressure washing a roof can be dangerous, particularly if you’re not properly trained or equipped.

Walking on a sloped, wet roof can lead to slips, falls, and serious injuries. High-pressure water can also be dangerous if it accidentally hits someone or nearby objects.

Chemical Damage

Pressure washing can activate and spread algae spores, making the problem worse instead of better.

Additionally, if the wrong type of cleaning agent is used, it could cause further damage to your roof or strip away the protective coating of your shingles.

It’s important to note that even with pressure washing, moss, and other organic growth may return quickly if not treated with a preventative product.

How to Pressure Wash Your Roof Shingles Safely

If you’ve weighed the pros and cons and decided that pressure washing your roof shingles is a good idea, it’s important to do it safely.

• Start using the right equipment, including a pressure washer with a low-pressure nozzle and long extension wand.
• Then, use proper safety gear, including non-slip shoes, a safety harness, and eye protection.
• Finally, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your pressure washer and your roofing material.

When to Call in the Pros

Don’t risk damaging your roof – let the experts provide a professional cleaning to keep your shingles shining and warranty in place.

A qualified contractor or pressure washing business can ensure everything is handled safely! Professionals always have the necessary equipment for pressure washing shingle roofs.

However, weighing the pros and cons before you start is important. If you decide to pressure wash your roof shingles, do it safely and correctly to avoid damage or injury.

And if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, don’t hesitate to call Judge Mobile Wash. Leave the pressure washing roof shingles activity with pros.