Should You Give Your Roof the Pressure Washer Treatment?

Table of Contents

1. The Risks of Pressure Washing Your Roof
2. The Case for Hiring a Professional to Pressure Wash Your Roof
3. The Pros of Pressure Washing Your Roof[+]
   1. Removes Hard to Clean Stains
   2. Removes Accumulated Dirt and Debris
   3. Keeps Your Roof Looking New

There’s pressure washing, and then there’s pressure washing. Homeowners often use the term to describe any situation in which they use a hose to clean something, but there’s a big difference between pressure washing your car and pressure washing your roof. The former is generally considered safe, while the latter can be quite dangerous if you’re not careful.

So what’s the difference between regular and pressure washing?

When it comes to keeping your home or business clean, there are a variety of options available. Two of the most popular methods are regular washing and pressure washing. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the difference before making a decision.

Regular washing is typically done with a hose and a nozzle attachment. This method is effective for removing dirt, dust, and other debris from surfaces. However, it can be time-consuming, and it may not remove all of the dirt and grime. On the other hand, pressure washing uses high-powered water to remove stubborn dirt and grime. This method is faster and more effective than regular washing, but it can be more expensive. It also carries the risk of damaging delicate surfaces if not done properly.

Having that said, is it really advisable to do the pressure washing yourself? Is it a good way to clean your roof, or should you leave it to the professionals? What’s going to be the verdict?

The Risks of Pressure Washing Your Roof

One of the biggest dangers of pressure washing your roof is that you could end up damaging the shingles. Asphalt shingles are designed to withstand a certain amount of wear and tear, but they’re not designed to withstand the high-pressure stream of water that comes out of a pressure washer. If you’re not careful, you could easily strip away the asphalt granules that protect your shingles from UV rays and weather damage. And once those granules are gone, your shingles will deteriorate much more quickly.

In addition to damaging your shingles, pressure washing your roof can also be dangerous for you. If you’re not careful, you could slip and fall off the roof— especially if it’s wet. Even if you don’t fall off the roof, there’s always the danger of being hit by flying debris. And that risk doubles up if you’re not used to using a pressure washer. It’s not uncommon for broken branches, bits of gravel, and even pieces of siding to come flying off a roof when it’s pressure-washed. And since most pressure washers use detergent or soap along with water, there’s also a risk of chemical burns if you’re not careful.

In another example, pressure washing a retractable roof can be a risky proposition. The high-powered stream of water can easily damage the roof’s sealant, causing leaks. Also, the powerful jets of water can loosen shingles and tiles, making them more susceptible to wind damage. And, if the stream of water is directed towards electrical components, it could create a serious fire hazard. For these reasons, it’s important to consult with a professional before doing anything with a retractable roof. They’ll be able to assess the condition of your roof and determine the best course of action.

The Case for Hiring a Professional to Pressure Wash Your Roof

If you’re still set on having your roof pressure washed, think about hiring a professional rather than doing it yourself. A professional will have all of the necessary equipment—including ladders, scaffolding, and safety gear—to do the job safely and effectively. They’ll also know how to adjust the pressure and nozzle size to avoid damaging your shingles. In short, hiring a professional is always the best option when it comes to home maintenance tasks like this one.

The points for the risks have been discussed, but what about the good it can do? After all, the option of getting a professional pressure washer is there. Here are a few of them:

The Pros of Pressure Washing Your Roof

Removes Hard to Clean Stains

One of the best things a pressure washer can provide in roof cleaning is it removes hard-to-clean stains. For example, if you have a spot on your roof that is difficult to reach or see, a pressure washer can help remove it. Hard-to-clean stains can be frustrating, and they can also be dangerous if left uncleaned. Algae, moss, and lichen can all cause problems for your roof, leading to early deterioration. A pressure washer can remove these stubborn growths quickly and easily, prolonging the life of your roof.

Removes Accumulated Dirt and Debris

Pressure washing your roof regularly is one of the best ways to keep it in good condition. Not only does it remove accumulated dirt and debris, but it also helps to prevent the growth of moss and mildew. Pressure washing also allows you to inspect your roof for any potential problems. If you do find any damage, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration.

Keeps Your Roof Looking New

Finally, it keeps your roof looking new. It does this by washing away the dirt, grime, and dried leaves that can accumulate on your roof over time. This not only makes your roof look better, but it also helps to extend its life by preventing premature wear and tear. If you have a wood or metal roof, a pressure washer can blast away any dirt, grime, or moss that has accumulated over time, provided you’re careful in doing so. This will not only improve the look of your roof, but it will also help to extend its life.

Conclusion

So, is pressure washing for roofs advisable? It depends. If done correctly by a professional with experience cleaning roofs, it can be a helpful way to maintain your roof and extend its lifespan. However, there are also some risks associated with pressure washing roofs that you should be aware of before hiring someone to clean yours. As always, it’s best to consult with a professional before making any decisions about how to care for your roof.

Thank you for reading!