Soft Washing Asphalt Shingle Roofs: Best Practices and Tips

We all strive to maintain the appearance and longevity of our roofs, but only some know the best approach to tackle this task. Soft-wash asphalt shingles have emerged as a gentle yet effective solution to this dilemma, providing a method that cleans and preserves our roofs. This technique is precious for removing stubborn pollutants like algae, moss growth, and other residues that traditional cleaning methods might miss. In recognizing the importance of both aesthetic and structural integrity, opting for a soft wash roof cleaning offers a safer alternative to ensure the health of our homes from the top down.

In this article, we delve into the nuances of ensuring effective roof shingle cleaning while emphasizing the significance of roof maintenance. We’ll explore the right cleaning solutions that are both effective and gentle on asphalt shingles and provide a step-by-step guide to soft washing your roof. Alongside this, we will share essential safety measures to keep in mind during roof washing to prevent accidents and ensure a thorough cleanse without damage. By the end of our discussion, you'll be well-equipped with the knowledge needed for soft-washing asphalt shingles, ensuring your roof remains pristine while effectively combating algae removal and moss prevention.

Understanding the Need for Soft Washing Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Asphalt shingle roofs are popular for many homeowners due to their affordability and durability. However, over time, these roofs can accumulate dirt, debris, and unwanted growth that affects their appearance and longevity ^[1]. Regular roof cleaning is essential to maintain the integrity of your asphalt shingles and extend the life of your roof.

Reasons for Roof Cleaning

There are several compelling reasons to prioritize the cleaning of your asphalt shingle roof:

1. Aesthetics and Resale Value: A clean roof enhances the overall appearance of your home, boosting its curb appeal ^[1]. This is particularly important if you plan on selling your property, as a well-maintained roof can increase its resale value ^[1].
2. Home and Family Health: Neglecting roof maintenance can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can pose health risks to you and your family ^[1]. Regular cleaning helps prevent these issues and ensures a safer living environment.
3. Protection from the Elements: Removing dirt, debris, and unwanted growth from your roof allows it to better protect your home from harsh weather conditions ^[2]. A clean roof is more effective at shedding water and preventing moisture damage ^[2].
4. Money Savings: While roof cleaning requires some investment, it is significantly less expensive than the repairs resulting from a poorly maintained roof ^[2]. By extending the lifespan of your asphalt shingles, you can avoid premature roof replacement ^[1].

Common Issues like Algae, Moss, and Lichen

Asphalt shingle roofs are susceptible to various types of unwanted growth, including:

1. Algae: Gloeocapsa magma, a type of algae, thrives in hot and humid conditions and can cause unsightly black streaks on your roof ^[3]. Left unchecked, algae growth can damage your shingles and reduce your roof's ability to reflect UV light ^[3].
2. Moss: Moss growth on your roof can be more than an aesthetic issue. As moss grows, it can work under shingles, lifting them and creating opportunities for water to penetrate your home ^[4]. Moss retains moisture, leading to consistently wet conditions that can degrade your shingles ^[4].
3. Lichen: Lichen, like moss, can loosen shingle granules and expose the asphalt and fiberglass base materials ^[5]. This exposure can accelerate shingle deterioration and increase the risk of leaks ^[5].

Soft washing has emerged as a safe and effective cleaning method to address these issues and prevent damage to your asphalt shingle roof. By understanding the need for regular roof maintenance and the specific challenges posed by algae, moss, and lichen, homeowners can take proactive steps to protect their investment and ensure the longevity of their roofs.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Solutions

When soft washing asphalt shingle roofs, selecting the appropriate cleaning solutions is crucial for achieving effective results while minimizing potential damage. Let's explore the key considerations and recommendations for choosing the right cleaning products.

Sodium Hypochlorite Mixture

One of the most commonly used and effective cleaning agents for soft washing roofs is sodium hypochlorite, also known as bleach ^[6]. Sodium hypochlorite is a powerful degreaser that can kill algae and remove dirt from the roof surface ^[6]. Most contractors find that using bleach is the fastest and most effective way to clean a roof ^[7].

When using sodium hypochlorite, purchase fresh bleach from a reliable chemical supplier or a store that moves a high volume of product ^[7]. Fresh bleach from a grocery store typically has a concentration of 5.75%, which is suitable for roof cleaning when used at a concentration between 3% and 6% ^[7].

Some contractors opt for industrial bleach with concentrations ranging from 10% to 15%, which provides more cleaning power per gallon ^[7]. However, regular bleach can be as effective when used correctly ^[7].

Importance of Low pH Solutions

While sodium hypochlorite is a popular choice, it's essential to consider other cleaning solutions with lower pH levels. Sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, calcium chloride, and percarbonate cleaners are less aggressive and corrosive than bleach ^[7].

Sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide can kill algae and remove soil from the roof. Still, they may require more physical agitation, such as using a surface cleaner, pressure washer, or scrub brush ^[7]. These solutions are best suited for walkable roofs where the pressure can be controlled to avoid damaging the shingles ^[7].

Percarbonate cleaners and hydrogen peroxide are the least aggressive options, but they may require extensive dwell time or abrasive force to be effective ^[7].

Avoiding High-Pressure Washes

When cleaning asphalt shingle roofs, avoiding high-pressure washing techniques is crucial. Experts advise against hitting shingle roofs with pressurized water, as it can cause damage and potentially void the shingle installation warranty ^[8].

Instead, opt for a soft wash approach that relies on specialized cleaning agents and low-pressure applications ^[9]. Soft washing involves using a proprietary blend of soaps and detergents at low pressure with high volume to kill stains while preserving the shingles' integrity ^[9].

Choosing the proper cleaning solutions and a gentle soft wash technique can effectively clean your asphalt shingle roof without compromising its longevity or causing unnecessary damage. Always prioritize using low pH solutions, avoid high-pressure washing, and consult with professional roof cleaning services to ensure the best results for your home.

Step-by-Step Guide to Soft Washing Your Roof

Here is the citation content for the section “Step-by-Step Guide to Soft Washing Your Roof” of the article “Soft Washing Asphalt Shingle Roofs: Best Practices and Tips” in markdown format:

We must follow a systematic process to wash our asphalt shingle roof effectively. Let's gather the necessary materials, mix the cleaning solutions, and apply them using the proper techniques to ensure a thorough cleaning without causing any damage.

Gathering Necessary Materials

Before we begin, make sure to have the following materials ready:

1. Soft wash equipment (pump, hose, nozzle)
2. Cleaning solutions (sodium hypochlorite, surfactants)
3. Safety gear (gloves, goggles, slip-resistant shoes)
4. Garden hose for rinsing

Mixing Cleaning Solutions

For a typical 2000 sq ft house, we will use 20-30 gals of chlorine mixed with water at a 60-40 ratio (60% water and 40% chlorine) [10]. This will give us the recommended 3%- 6^[10]. This will provide us with the recommended 3%-6% sodium hypochlorite solution ^[10]. Always add surfactants to enhance the cleaning power and help the solution cling to the surface ^[7].

Application Techniques

When applying the solution, work in small sections, starting from the top and moving downwards ^[11]. Use a low-pressure nozzle to avoid damaging the shingles ^[9]. Liberally coat the entire roof and let the chemical do its magic ^[11].

Ensuring Proper Dwell Time

Allow the cleaning solution to dwell on the roof for 15-20 minutes ^{[10] [11]}. This gives the sodium hypochlorite time to kill the organic matter and loosen the dirt and grime.

Rinsing the Roof

After the dwell time, thoroughly rinse the roof with a garden hose or a low-pressure rinse ^[10]. Start from the top and work your way down, ensuring all the cleaning solution is washed away. Rinsing helps remove the dead organic matter, restores a consistent roof color, and prevents any potential damage from the cleaning solution ^{[12] [13]}.

Remember to wet the surrounding landscape before and after cleaning to protect the plants ^[10]. With patience and the right approach, we can effectively softwash our asphalt shingle roof, restoring its appearance and extending its lifespan.

Important Safety Tips

Safety should always be our top priority when soft-washing our asphalt shingle roof. Taking the necessary precautions and following best practices can help prevent accidents and ensure a successful cleaning process.

Roof Safety Precautions

1. Wear Proper Safety Gear: Before starting, put on protective gear such as safety goggles or glasses, work gloves, and a hard hat to avoid injuries from dust, debris, or falling objects ^[14].
2. Use the Right Equipment: Ensure the ladder is in good condition and on a stable surface. Wear rubber-soled shoes for better grip on the roof's surface ^[14].
3. Be Careful When Climbing: Step on the sturdiest parts of the roof near the edges or ridges, and avoid weaker sections like valleys or skylights. Test the stability of any area before putting your total weight on it ^[14].
4. Avoid Using a Power Washer: High-pressure power washers can damage shingles and cause leaks. Instead, use a garden hose with a pressure nozzle for gentle spraying ^[14].
5. Work with a Partner: Roof washing is a two-person job. While one person sprays the roof mix, the second person should spray fresh water on the surrounding vegetation, keep the job site clear, manage hoses, and address any safety issues that may arise ^[15].

Protecting Vegetation and Gutters

1. Pre-Wet Plants and Shrubs: Before applying the roof mixture, coat all plants and trees with water, especially those directly below the roofline. This will help protect the leaves from potential chemical burns caused by bleach runoff ^[15].
2. Use Tarps: Protect smaller bushes and shrubs with tarps, such as 8-foot-wide 1.5 mils clear plastic. However, oversee them, as the plastic can sometimes act like a greenhouse and overheat the plants ^[15].
3. Bag Downspouts: Catch runoff from the roof by positioning trash bags at downspouts and adhering them with tape. Place a piece of cardboard under the trash bag to prevent punctures. If a gutter lacks a downspout, use a five-gallon bucket instead ^[15].
4. Keep Vegetation Moist: While one person sprays the roof mix, the second person should continuously spray fresh water on the surrounding vegetation. This coats the leaves and dilutes any roof mix that may reach the plants ^[15].

By following these safety precautions and protecting our landscaping, we can effectively softwash our asphalt shingle roof while minimizing the risk of accidents or damage to our property.

Conclusion

Throughout this guide, we've explored the essential practices and critical considerations for soft washing asphalt shingle roofs, from understanding the importance of regular maintenance to selecting the correct cleaning solutions and executing the washing process safely and efficiently. By emphasizing the significance of choosing appropriate cleaning agents and adopting a systematic approach to application and rinsing, the article aimed to arm homeowners with the knowledge needed to preserve their roofs' aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Moreover, safety precautions and measures to protect surrounding vegetation underline the comprehensive approach required for effective and responsible roof maintenance.

The cumulative advice presented underscores the importance of routine roof care and highlights the potential for extending the life span of asphalt shingles through methodical maintenance practices. As we consider the broader implications of these recommendations, it becomes clear that the benefits extend beyond mere aesthetics, contributing to the overall health of the living environment and safeguarding the home against preventable damage. This guide is valuable for anyone looking to maintain their roof in optimal condition, encouraging an approach that blends effectiveness with environmental and structural respect.

FAQs

1. What is the process for soft washing asphalt shingles?
The process for soft washing asphalt shingles involves using a low-pressure cleaning system to apply a cleaning solution that effectively removes dirt, algae, and moss without damaging the shingles.

2. What cleaning solution is recommended for soft washing shingles?
The most effective cleaning solution for soft washing shingles is a diluted mixture of household bleach and a surfactant. Typically, you will need between 20-25 gallons of this mixture to ensure a thorough cleaning.

3. Should the roof be rinsed after soft washing?
The answer to whether you should rinse the roof after soft washing is not directly provided. Still, rinsing is typically a part of the process to ensure no residue remains that could damage the roof over time.

4. Is it beneficial to softwash a roof?
Yes, soft washing of a roof is beneficial as it helps reduce the roof's temperature by removing dirt and growths contributing to heat absorption. This can decrease the heat levels in your attic, leading to lower cooling costs during hot months.

References

[1] – https://gjkeller.com/dos-and-donts-of-cleaning-your-roofs-asphalt-shingles/
[2] – https://www.startyourbusinessmag.com/blog/2023/12/04/the-essential-guide-to-safe-and-effective-roof-cleaning/
[3] – https://pressurewashnc.com/what-is-soft-wash-roof-cleaning-and-how-it-works/
[4] – https://www.iko.com/blog/how-to-remove-moss-from-shingles/
[5] – https://www.finehomebuilding.com/project-guides/roofing/lichen-moss-roof-remediation
[6] – https://reddoorprowash.com/choosing-the-best-soft-wash-roof-cleaning-chemicals/
[7] – https://commercialrestorations.com/roof-cleaning-chemistry/
[8] – https://peterspressurewashing.com/pressure-washing-roof-shingles/
[9] – https://www.trottaspowerwashing.com/blog/power-washing-my-roof-is-it-a-necessity/
[10] – https://www.teamhydroforce.com/introduction-to-soft-wash-roof-cleaning/
[11] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6m1eSm25eA
[12] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_-cg1uhViY
[13] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqG3RZrDWp8
[14] – https://conderoofing.com/safety-tips-to-remember-when-cleaning-your-roof/
[15] – https://powerwash.com/spray-tips/learn-how-to-protect-plants-and-shrubs-when-soft-washing/