Roof cleaning is one of the many home maintenance tasks that shouldn’t be ignored. But with such an arduous task, it’s tempting to put it off. Learn how often you should have your roof cleaned so you can set this task up regularly and improve the state and lifespan of your roof.
Cleaning your roof keeps your family and pets safe by removing dirt and other health hazards, like mold, that could make their way indoors. Roof cleaning also gives you the chance to notice any signs of damage and areas that need repair before the problem gets worse. By doing these things, you’ll prolong the life of your roof, giving you the most value for what you paid for.
You’ll know it’s time for a roof cleaning when you spot algae, moss, or other grime growing. Leaves and other debris that clog up your roof and gutters are another indicator that it’s time to make the call. Finally, an abundance of animal droppings signals you’re due for a roof cleaning as it’ll eat away at your roof.
How often you should have your roof cleaned depends on a few factors. Let’s break them down to help you determine your roof’s ideal cleaning schedule.
Areas with heavy rainfall or snow should clean their roofs at least once a year. This is because water brings in bacteria and other gunk that build up on your roof. This will cause damage that may need expensive repairs if left there.
Heavily wooded areas are prone to clogging gutters and leaving roofs with debris piles of leaves, twigs, and other foliage. This buildup traps water, which can damage your home and invite pests. If your home is surrounded by woods, you’ll want to clean your roof at least once a year.
On the other hand, urban areas may experience high amounts of pollution that settles on your home and can make its way indoors. You can use tools like the one on airnow.gov to determine your current air quality. Removing these pollutants at least once a year is important to keeping your home a healthy place to live.
The material your roof is made of determines how often you’ll need to clean it. As a rule of thumb, these are the different types of roofs and when they’ll need to be cleaned:
Older roofs are prone to debris buildup and damage and should be inspected regularly. More regular cleanings may be necessary to keep your roof looking good and to prevent health hazards from accumulating.
You’ll need to examine how your roof fits in with the factors listed above to determine how often you should clean it. Newer asphalt roofs in a dry climate can probably get away with a cleaning every few years. But older tile roofs in a wooded area may need to be cleaned once a year.
Need a little help with your roof cleaning? Call Window Hero today to schedule your next roof cleaning with the professionals who know roofs best. We’ll tackle the hard parts for you and give your roof a total makeover. All you need to do is enjoy a healthier, more attractive home.