You may have noticed that your roof tiles are looking a bit worse for wear. They may be
covered in moss or algae, or perhaps they’re just discolored from years of exposure to the
elements. Whatever the reason, you’ve decided that it’s time to give them a good clean. As a
homeowner, you may be tempted to pressure clean your roof as a way to save money on
repairs or replacement. However, there are several dangers associated with pressure cleaning
your roof, and it is important to proceed with caution. In this blog post, we will explore some of
the dangers of pressure cleaning different types of tiled roofs and pressure cleaning in general
so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not this is the right solution for
your home.
One of the dangers of pressure cleaning your roof is that it can damage the shingles. The
high-pressure water can loosen or remove the protective granules on the shingles, leaving them
vulnerable to sun damage and premature deterioration. In addition, pressure cleaning can also
cause cracks or chips in the shingles, which can lead to leaks.
Another danger of pressure cleaning your roof is that it can void your warranty. Many
manufacturers void the warranty if the shingles are damaged by pressure washing. This means
that if you have any problems with your roof after pressure washing it, you will not be covered
by your warranty and will be responsible for all repair or replacement costs.
Chlorine or similar products are usually used by pressure cleaners in order to soften moss and
lichen on terracotta roofs; however this chemical can burn the surface of those tiles when
washed off down into surrounding areas. Moreover, 3000 psi industry standard for pressure
washers puts excessive force against ridge caps which could easily erode its flexible pointing
mixture over time. Finally, walking on wet roof tiles carries a risk of breakage that might result in
leaking as well as hidden minor cracks appearing later months.
A concrete cement tiled roof offers durability and longevity, with the added benefit of an
aesthetically pleasing color coating. However, it is important to note that despite its protective
properties against moisture absorption, pressure cleaning these roofs can still cause damage in
various ways. The water courses could be breached which would lead to leaks into your home’s
interior; additionally older tiles may have their oxides washed away resulting in a raw
appearance for the entire surface area.
Pressure washing a slate roof comes with its own set of unique challenges. The thin nature of
the slates means walking on them can be like navigating an eggshell, and any resulting
breakage is difficult to replace without specialized help. In addition, pressure cleaning can cause
deterioration in the ridges’ pointing – another issue that requires experienced attention.
Therefore it’s important to consider both short-term convenience and long-term safety when
deciding whether or not to wash your slate roof!
Metal roofs are a sturdy option and made of steel that is coated to protect against rust. To
ensure long-lasting quality, many companies pre-treat their metal roof with products like chlorine
which can unfortunately reduce its durability by causing premature deterioration. High pressure washing techniques can also damage the protective coating on Colourbond, zinc or galvanized
sheeting thereby exposing it to potential corrosion over time.
When it comes time to clean your roof tiles, take a moment to consider some alternatives to
pressure cleaning. Pressure washing your roof tiles is one way to clean them but it’s certainly
not the only way. There are several alternatives available that will get your roof tiles just as
clean without putting unnecessary stress on your roof. Be sure to consider all of your options
before making a decision about how to best care for your roof. Call or email us today to speak to
our experienced industry experts to explore the best roof cleaning options for your particular
needs.