Although mold is not hazardous to your roof, it will negatively influence the aesthetic of your house. Typically a moldy rooftop has an amalgamation of algae, moss, and mildew, which appear in slimy green or black shades as well as blue-green streaks.
In addition, small plants known as mosses can form thick green mats over roofs. In this blog post, we'll cover the best tips and tricks needed to ensure that any mold from your roof gets taken care of safely and effectively.
How to clean mold from your roof
Safety first.
Taking care of your roof should always be done with caution.
If you're going to tackle the job of cleaning mold from your roof, safety must come first.
According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, it's not a task that should be taken on as a DIY job and they suggest leaving it to the professionals. But if you are determined to take this project upon yourself, first make sure you know and understand the statistics surrounding ladder falls and injuries - that information alone may give you pause before continuing.
Above all else, be sure to use a harness, even if you witness fellow DIYers working without one. Keeping safe is paramount when climbing onto your roof - don't let cleaning mold put your health at risk.
Power Washers
When it comes to cleaning the roof of your home, you can trust the power of a hose attached to a nozzle more than that of a power washer. Power washers are notorious for damaging shingles due to the strong force from which the water sprays out.
It is easy for homeowners to use too much pressure when using these machines and wash away the valuable granules from their roofs, leaving them exposed and vulnerable.
The hose and nozzle method is more forgiving as it doesn't put out such a powerful spray and instead distributes water that is gentle on your shingles while still getting them clean.
Bleach and Water Solution
A bleach and water solution is an effective way to clean an algae-covered roof.
Simply mix one part bleach with one part water, let sit for one hour, and then rinse away the dirt and grime.
This combination is both safe and powerful, providing superior results compared to other cleaning methods.
For those looking to keep their roof shining its brightest, this mixture is a dependable option.
Trisodium Phosphate Mixtures
Trisodium phosphate mixtures, commonly referred to as TSP, are an effective cleaning solution that can be used when other agents have been unsuccessful.
This combination of sodium triphosphate and sodium phosphate is readily available at most hardware stores and should be sprayed onto the surface in question and allowed to sit for approximately 15 minutes in order to achieve maximum efficacy.
If mold is present, its removal should afterward be done with a brush.
As with any potentially dangerous agent, special care needs to be taken when using TSP for cleaning; wearing safety gloves and goggles is essential in protecting yourself against contact with the mixture.
Commercial Cleaning Solutions
While it may be tempting to try and save money by using homemade solutions, commercial cleaners are specifically formulated to effectively remove mold and prevent it from coming back.
They are also more likely to be safe and effective, as they have been tested and approved for use. By opting for a commercial cleaner, you are ensuring that your roof is properly taken care of and won't suffer any long-term damage due to the cleaning process.
These are just some of the tips and tricks needed for safely removing mold from your roof. Roof cleaning is an important part of roof maintenance that helps to extend the life of your roof. When in doubt, it’s always best to consult with an expert.
At Pickard Roofing, we think Design. Craft. Renew. We are experienced in all types of roofing systems- and provide the right roofing design and selective craftsmanship for renewing our customer’s assets. We invite sustainable building customers to give us a call for your free evaluation. For over 90 years Pickard Roofing Company has installed countless metal, tile, slate, TPO, EPDM, and all types of shingle roofing in the Triangle. Our services include residential, commercial, custom architectural metal fabrication, and historical renovation.
