No, power washing roof shingles can damage them due to the high pressure.
Power washing can strip away the granules on asphalt shingles, which are essential for protecting the roof from sun damage and weather. This pressure can also lift or loosen shingles, leading to leaks and costly repairs. Instead, soft washing your roof with a low-pressure system and a specialized cleaning solution is a safer, more effective method for removing mold, algae, and grime without causing harm.
Risks Of Power Washing Roof Shingles
Power washing roof shingles carries several risks due to the high-pressure water stream. Here are the primary risks:
Granule Loss: Asphalt shingles have a protective layer of granules that shield them from UV rays and weather. High-pressure washing can strip away these granules, reducing the roof’s lifespan and making it more susceptible to sun and weather damage.
Water Intrusion: The pressure from power washing can drive water under the shingles and into the roof deck, leading to moisture buildup, leaks, and potential mold growth inside the home.
Shingle Damage and Displacement: The force of power washing can crack, lift, or displace shingles, especially if they’re already aged or weakened. This can result in costly repairs or even the need for a roof replacement.
Voiding Warranty: Many roofing manufacturers specify that high-pressure cleaning will void the warranty on shingles, as it’s considered a damaging cleaning method.
Costly Repairs: The immediate damage caused by power washing can lead to leaks, rot, and mold growth, resulting in expensive roof repairs and potentially indoor damage.
Soft washing is the preferred, safer alternative, using low-pressure cleaning to gently remove debris, algae, and mold without damaging shingles.
What Is The Best Way To Clean Your Shingle Roof?
The best way to clean a shingle roof is through soft washing, a gentle cleaning method that uses low pressure and a specially formulated cleaning solution to remove algae, moss, mildew, and grime. This solution typically includes a blend of water, bleach, and a surfactant, which kills organisms and loosens debris without damaging the shingles. Soft washing protects the integrity of the shingles by avoiding high pressure, which can strip protective granules and cause leaks. For a thorough and safe clean, it’s often best to hire a professional equipped with the proper tools and experience.
What’s The Difference Between Power Washing and Soft Washing?
The difference between power washing and soft washing lies primarily in the water pressure used and the cleaning approach.
Power Washing uses high-pressure water (typically 1,500 to 4,000 PSI) to blast away dirt, grime, mold, and debris. It’s highly effective for hard surfaces like concrete, brick, and metal but can damage softer materials like roof shingles and siding by stripping away protective layers.
Soft Washing, on the other hand, uses a much lower pressure (often 100 to 500 PSI) combined with a specialized cleaning solution, typically a mix of water, bleach, and surfactant. This solution breaks down organic growth (like algae, mold, and mildew) and dirt without the need for high pressure, making it ideal for delicate surfaces like roof shingles, vinyl siding, and painted wood.
How To Soft Wash Your Roof Shingles
To soft wash your roof safely and effectively, start by gathering the right supplies, including a low-pressure soft wash system or garden sprayer, a roof cleaning solution (usually a mix of water, bleach, and a surfactant), safety gear like goggles and gloves, a garden hose for rinsing, and a ladder if you need roof access. Before beginning, inspect the roof for any damaged or loose shingles, repairing them as needed, and protect your landscaping by rinsing nearby plants with water to prevent them from absorbing any cleaning chemicals. You can also cover sensitive plants for added protection.
Next, mix the cleaning solution according to the product’s instructions, typically blending three parts water with one part bleach and adding a surfactant to help it stick to the roof surface. Apply the solution starting from the top of the roof, working in sections to ensure even coverage, and let it sit for 10–20 minutes to loosen dirt and kill algae or mold. Be sure to avoid letting the solution dry fully on the shingles. Afterward, use a garden hose or low-pressure rinse to gently rinse the roof from top to bottom, removing the solution and any loosened grime. Take a moment to rinse your landscaping again to clear away any runoff that might have splashed on nearby plants.
Finally, inspect your roof for any areas that need additional cleaning and, if necessary, reapply the solution and rinse. For the best results, always avoid high pressure, as it can damage shingles, and choose a cool, dry day to prevent the solution from drying too quickly. If working on the roof feels risky, consider hiring a professional who can ensure both safety and effective cleaning. Soft washing is a gentle, thorough method to keep your roof clean without the risks associated with high-pressure washing, preserving both the roof’s appearance and integrity.
Takeaway
Power washing roof shingles is not recommended due to the potential damage high-pressure water can cause. The intense force strips away protective granules essential for safeguarding shingles against sun and weather damage, and it can loosen shingles, leading to leaks and costly repairs. Instead, soft washing is a gentler, low-pressure cleaning method that safely removes mold, algae, and grime without harming shingles.
Soft washing also preserves the roof’s structural integrity by using a specially formulated cleaning solution that gently cleans while protecting the surface. For effective roof cleaning and longer roof life, soft washing is the preferred choice, often best performed by a professional like Vesta Property Pro.
Call us today to get a free quote on your next roof soft wash.
