As a homeowner, you are always looking for ways to make your home look its best. You also know how important the roof is to the integrity of the entire property and is not something you want to have to replace sooner rather than later. That is why most roofing contractors recommend you keep an eye on the condition of your roof by taking these actions to preserve the shingles as intact as the day they were installed.
What Is the Proper Way to Clean Roof Shingles?
Use the Right Equipment
No matter what you do, you want to make sure to preserve the strength of the roof. Using tools with sharp edges may result in you removing the granules that cover asphalt shingles. Instead, invest in a couple of brushes or brooms that are specifically designed to clean the roof’s surface. Being too rough when attempting to clean the roof may result in shingles being dislodged or cracking.
Use an Eco-Friendly System
When you buy eco-friendly cleaning products you will not only be doing your roof a favor by keeping it clean, but you will also avoid harming your landscaping, the water supply, and your loved ones. Asphalt shingles react very well to these types of cleaners.
Call the Professionals
If your roof seems to be covered with moss or algae in large swaths or if you have tried to remove mold unsuccessfully, your best bet to recover your clean roof without damaging it is to call in the professionals. A licensed roofer will clean your roofing shingles safely and efficiently without damaging them. It will also prevent you from hurting yourself by performing a task that is inherently dangerous.
Other Actions You Can Take to Preserve Your Roof
Besides keeping your roof shingles clean, there are other actions you can take to preserve the roof’s long life. Here are some of them:
Clean the Gutters
It is easy for the gutter’s channels to become clogged with branches, leaves, or other debris. Ignoring these clogs will result in the water not being able to flow down from the roof. By remaining on your shingles, you may start to see them degrade, and leaks may develop. Clean the gutters and downspouts twice a year to ensure adequate water flow and no damage to your shingles.
Trim the Trees
Trees make your property look nice and provide plenty of shade. However, when they grow too close to your roof they may also cause severe damage to its shingles. When tree branches are allowed to move back and forth over the roof, they will literally scrape off all the granules from the shingles, causing you to have to replace them much sooner than you normally would. Keep them trimmed to avoid potential damage.
Remove Any Debris
Sticks and leaves can find a way to hide in your roof’s nooks and crannies. When vegetation is allowed to remain on the roof, water will accumulate there, potentially causing leaks and mold.