We get it. It’s tempting. After pressure-washing your driveway, retaining walls, siding, deck, and whatever else is the target of your spring cleaning extravaganza, you look at your roof and are enticed by the idea of quickly getting rid of all the dirt, grime, and moss that’s built up over the winter. But that can be a huge (and costly) mistake. Here’s why.
It can damage your shingles. Most roofs in the PNW are composite (asphalt) shingles. Pressure-washing them blasts away dirt, but also can remove parts of the shingles and reduce their expected life span. It can also affect the adhesive between shingles, and even the underlayment below the shingles. This can pave the way for leaks, water damage, and other problems. Pressure washing is also inappropriate for cedar shake roofs.
It can damage your seals. If you have skylights or vents in your roof, pressure washing can damage the seals around them leading to – you guessed it – leaks and water damage.
You might void your warranty. If your roof has a warranty, you may void it by cleaning it improperly. You definitely don’t want to do this since you won’t be financially protected against potential future roof failure. You want to protect that investment!
Now just because you can’t pressure wash your roof doesn’t mean it doesn’t need some TLC every spring. However, use tools like a leaf blower to blow debris off your roof, and a cleaner, brush, and gentle hose to wash away other dirt and grime (always check with your roof’s manufacturer about their recommended cleaning method). You should also schedule a professional roof inspection to make sure that dingy roof isn’t evidence of failing shingles, or to check that our windy, rainy winter didn’t cause any unseen damage.
Robert Gardner Roofing offers complimentary repair estimates to fix any problems that have popped up over the winter and prevent them from causing additional damage. Ready to schedule a free repair or replacement estimate from Gardner Roofing? Call them at 206-498-0691 or send them a message online!
Robert Gardner Roofing in Mountlake Terrace, WA has been the trusted roofing company in the greater Seattle area for over 20 years. Our team of expert roofers will arrive at your home or business with all the necessary materials and carefully set up for installation. We prepare everything offsite, in advance, so the job runs efficiently, creating a clean and safe job site! Contact them today for a FREE repair or roof replacement estimate; same-day estimates are possible based on availability. Have a question? Contact them online or call 206-498-0691.
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