If you’re wondering how to clean your roof shingles, you’ve come to the right place!
Asphalt roof cleaning is an essential task that homeowners should not neglect. Over time, algae, moss, and debris can accumulate on your roof, which can cause damage and reduce its lifespan. Regular cleaning can prevent these issues and keep the roof looking clean and new.
There’s a lot of conflicting information out there on how to clean your roof properly and safely. Some companies pressure wash while others use a bleach-like solution. It is important to do your research and understand all the options available to you, so you don’t inadvertently choose a method that may potentially void your roof warranty.
How To Clean Roofing Shingles The Eco-Friendly Way
The Bacteria That's Eating your Roof Shingles
Black staining on a roof is a bacteria called Gloeocapsa Magma. The spores travel by air. They can land anywhere on the roof but the north side where there is less sunlight seems to be more susceptible to this bacteria. The reason behind it is that shady sides of a roof retain more moisture which allows the stain to fester more predominantly.
The most popular manufacturer of roofing shingles, GAF, has put out a bulletin that acknowledges the stain and offers a suggested method of stain removal. They clearly warn against pressure washing and suggest the use of bleach and TSP (trisodium phosphate). Unfortunately, TSP is not an environmental product.
Phosphates promote algae growth in lakes. This is why it’s suggested to keep certain lawn fertilizers from reaching the storm drains. Trisodium phosphates increase the ph level in sodium hypochlorite. Here in the northeast, we get fresh shipments of sodium hypochlorite. There is no reason to have to increase the ph levels in order for us to clean roofs.
As a leading NJ roof cleaning company, we guarantee a 100% fully cleaned & sterilized property without using unsafe chemicals. We don't use toxic trisodium phosphates. Instead, we utilize safe but effective "soft-washing" techniques that completely eradicate stains.
Moss, Lichens & Other Roof Damaging Pests
Moss and lichens are also pests that cause roofing shingles deterioration. These organisms are easy to kill, but not always quick to remove. These growths form a root system in the shingle just like a plant. If you force these items from the roof you can potentially take the roofing granules off also and leave scars on the roof.
To remove these organisms safely it is best to treat and kill the growths, then let them decompose and dry out. Eventually, rain will slowly wash away the remaining decay. This is not a quick process and can take up to 90 days, but it is the least aggressive way to clean the roof of moss and lichens—without causing any damage to shingles themselves.
This method of chemical cleaning is what we call “soft-washing”.
Is Sodium Hypochlorite Safe to Use on Roof Shingles?
Yes, it is safe to use sodium hypochlorite. Local municipalities use sodium hypochlorite to sterilize our drinking water. However, this product does have the ability to adversely effect surrounding landscape. Be sure to ask you roof cleaning contractor how they plan to contain the runoff and protect the landscape.
Sodium hypochlorite is non-carcinogenic and utilizing it to clean shingles is a far less aggressive choice compared to roof pressure washing. High-pressure water does nothing to kill the mold spores, almost guaranteeing that the stains will return rather soon.
4 Steps To Cleaning Your NJ Roof Shingles The Eco-Friendly Way
Whether you are in NJ or anywhere else, cleaning a shingle roof can be done in an eco-friendly manner with just a few simple steps. Here are some tips that will help you get started:
- Use a non-toxic roof cleaner: Choose an eco-friendly roof cleaner that does not contain harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. Look for cleaning solutions that are biodegradable and gentle on your roof, your landscaping, and the environment.
- Use a low-pressure wash: High-pressure washers can damage shingles and even cause leaks. Instead, use a low-pressure wash to gently clean your shingle roof. You can use a garden hose with a spray nozzle attachment or a pressure washer with a low-pressure setting.
- Use a soft-bristled brush: If there are any stains or stubborn spots on your shingle roof that are not coming off with the low-pressure wash, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub away the dirt. Avoid using harsh brushes that can damage the shingles.
- Catch and filter the runoff: When cleaning your shingle roof, it is important to consider the runoff. The cleaning solution and debris can harm the environment, so it is important to catch the runoff and filter it before it enters the stormwater system. You can use a tarp or plastic sheeting to catch the runoff and then filter it through a filter bag or container.
By following these steps, you can clean your shingle roof without harming the environment—it is important to take care of your roof, but it is also important to do so in a way that is safe for the environment.
We Are a Leading NJ Roof Cleaning Contractor Since 1996!
At Thompson, we’re experts at safely and thoroughly cleaning roofs, including asphalt shingles!
With nearly 30 years of experience in roof cleaning behind us, we understand the ins and outs of roof cleaning and how to handle it safely and effectively!
We treat the entire roof and guarantee results! Completely sterilizing the roof yields a clean roof for many years whereas a spot-treatments allow stains to regenerate faster.
At Thompson Roof Cleaning & Power Washing, we never pressure-wash a roof! Instead, we use biodegradable detergents that safely eradicate living organisms that create stains on a cedar roof.
Each of our full roof treatments comes with our 3 Year Spot-Free Warranty!
If you need help with professional roof stain or moss removal, or have questions about our process, please call (732) 726-9261!
Our NJ cleaning & disinfecting services cover Hunterdon County, Middlesex County, Somerset County, Union County, Essex County, Monmouth County and Ocean County, Far Hills, Califon, Readington, Clinton, Tewksbury, Basking Ridge, Warren, Summit, Westfield, Scotch Plains, New Providence, Millburn, Livingston, Wyckoff, Boonton, and more!
