How To Clean Roof Shingles the Proper Way

Shingle roofs are appealing and durable that can last 15 to 30 years. While shingles are cost-effective roofing, they can be damaged by algae and mold.

Cleaning shingle roofs are an essential part of protecting them. So, how do you clean roof shingles properly?

This article will discuss the entire process of cleaning roof shingles correctly.

Step-by-Step Guide on How To Clean Roof Shingles

If your shingles roof appears dark or discolored in some areas, it’s a sign that mold has developed on the surface. If it is a black streak, it is a blue-green algae colony problem. In contrast, thick green patches on your roof are a moss problem.

Shady areas of your roof are the most susceptible to these nuances. The good news is that you can quickly eliminate these issues on your roof before they develop into severe problems by cleaning them.

But before you start cleaning the floor, take safety precautions by wearing slip-resistant shoes, gloves, and goggles. Also, when up the roof, attach yourself to the chimney or any other secure point using a safety rope.

You should also wear long pants and sleeves to avoid getting cleaning agents on your skin. Get the right ladder and place it appropriately before climbing the roof. Follow the steps below to clean the roof shingles when all is said and done.

Step #1: Cover Vegetation

Before cleaning your roof shingles, pre-soak the vegetation to protect it from the cleaning agent. The chemicals in the cleaning agents can affect your plants. So, first, wet all the plants around your roof with clean water and ensure they are saturated.

When the plants are saturated, it ensures they do not absorb the chemical through the leaf layer and root. Even after cleaning, you must rinse the plants for extra insurance and protection. After watering the plants, cover them with plastic wrap to protect them from splashes from the roof.

Step #2: Sweep and Remove Dirt and Debris

After protecting your vegetation, you must sweep and remove dirt and debris next. The cleaning agent works best when the roof shingles are free from loose dirt and debris. So, remove leaves, branches, and other debris on the roof shingles with a broom.

Alternatively, you can use a leaf blower to remove the debris on the roof. When using a leaf blower, remember to get dirt and debris from the ridge towards the roof’s edge.

Step #3: Mix the Cleaning Solution

Next, mix the cleaning solution with water and pour it into a sprayer. A pump action sprayer should do the job just fine. As for the cleaning solution, you can opt for a singles-safe bleach.

Ensure the cleaning solution you choose is non-corrosive and environmentally friendly. You can’t effectively clean roof shingles with just soap and water.

Alternatively, you can use a mixture of vinegar and detergent. Mix one part of vinegar with three parts of water when using vinegar. Ensure the water is warm to get the best result.

Furthermore, use white vinegar labeled with its acetic acid strength, which shouldn’t be more than 5%. You should also mix about 1 ounce of detergent into the solution.

Step #4: Spray the Roof Starting High.

With the cleaning solution ready, start by evenly coating the roof with the cleaning solution. Work your way from the top of the roof to the bottom. Spraying the roof this way will help ensure the roof is wet for a longer period.

After spraying the roof, allow the cleaning agent to sit on the roof for a while before you agitate. Generally, it would be best to let the cleaning solution to do its magic for about 20 minutes.

Note that the exact method to spray the cleaning solution values depends on the type of cleaning agent you use. So, read the manufacturer’s instructions for more information.

Step #5: Agitate With a Soft Brush.

After enough time has passed, agitate the shingles roof with a soft brush. Scrubbing the roof will help dislodge any remaining debris or moss growing on the roof.

Start by brushing down the shingles roof from the top, keeping it wet as you clean. Remember to clean the gutters as well. Ensure the gutter system, including the downspouts, is clean to prevent roof rot or water overflow.

Step #6: Double-Treat Problem Areas

Areas with difficult-to-remove stains should be re-treated with the cleaning agent. After spraying the cleaning solution in those areas, wait 5 minutes before scrubbing.

Some more, particularly the gloeocapasa magma (the black algae), are hard to remove from the roof. You may need to spray more of the cleaning solution on it until the shingles return to their original color.

Step #7: Rinse and Allow To Dry

Finally, when you are done, rinse the roof down properly. Use clean water and a hose to rinse the shingle roof properly. If you can’t get the garden hose to reach your roof, you should empty the sprayer, fill it with clean water, and rinse the single roof.

When the roof is dried, remove the plastic wrap on your vegetation, and water your plants.

Conclusion

In summary, opt for a sprayer rather than a pressure washer when cleaning your shingles roof. Also, please pay attention to your landscape or surrounding areas.

Instead, cover the vegetation so the cleaning solution doesn’t harm the plants and shrubs. It would be best if you also aimed to clean the roof on a cloudy day instead of a sunny day because you don’t want the cleaning solution to evaporate quickly.

Instead, it should sit on the roof and treat it. And finally, ensure you follow safety precautions, as walking on the roof is dangerous.