Debunking Top 6 Roof Cleaning Myths

The average homeowner may not be well versed in matters of roof maintenance and cleaning. To help you out, Earl W. Johnston Roofing, LLC, leading provider of roofing cleaning, maintenance, and repair services, debunks six common myths about cleaning your roof:

1. Myth: Roof stains are caused by pollution, tar, or acid.
Stains on your roof are usually caused by blue-green algae. These organisms feed on the limestone component of asphalt shingles and multiply quickly. Professional cleaning is required to rid your roof of algae.

2. Myth: If your roof has algae stains, you need a total replacement.
This is false; algae only grow on the surface of your roof and all it takes to remove them is a good professional cleaning service.

3. Myth: Stains from algae actually add a rustic look to your roof.
You may have confused algae with the patina that grows on copper roofs. While the latter certainly has aesthetic benefits, we can assure you that former does not have any benefit at all.

4. Myth: A pressure washer is the best way to clean your roof.
Pressure washing is good for cleaning concrete, but not an appropriate method for roof cleaning. Most roofing materials are designed for exposure to rainwater, not the intense force of pressure washers. Pressure washing would strip your roof, shortening its service life and maybe even voiding your warranty. Instead, have your roof professionally cleaned. We use Roof-A-Cide, a safe and cost-efficient way to get rid of algae.

5. Myth: Chemical roof cleaners kill landscaping.
This is partially true. Certain products like zinc strips have to be installed a specific way; otherwise, the runoff from your roof could harm your plants and could react with paints or finishes. The best way to protect your landscape is to have your roof professionally cleaned. The Roof-A-Cide system is completely harmless to landscaping and lasts longer than most chemical solutions.

6. Myth: DIY roof cleaning is perfectly safe.
Any activity that involves climbing a ladder onto your roof is not safe. In fact, falls are consistently the top cause of building-related injuries, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Roof cleaning, repair, and maintenance are jobs that require well-trained professionals.

Earl W. Johnston Roofing, LLC serves Pembroke Pines, Coral Springs, and Hollywood, FL. To learn more about why roof repair, cleaning, and maintenance are best left to professionals, call us today at (954) 989-7794 or fill out our contact form to request a quote or get a free storm damage inspection.