Why have your roof cleaned by a roof cleaning service? It is common knowledge that here in Glasgow and Central Scotland, the weather conditions are normally damp and overcast most of the time. It just so happens that our climate has the preferred conditions of microorganisms like roof moss, lichen and algae.
Allowing roof moss, lichen, and algae to grow on your roof can harm the roof coatings and degrade the integrity of the roof tile. This, in turn, significantly reduces the lifespan of your roof. Roof moss not only looks unpleasant, but it can also cause problems such as clogged gutters and downpipes which eventually leads to water ingress through wall cavities and ceilings. The added weight of damp roof moss can cause stress on the roof, which will eventually lead to dipped areas and misaligned tiles. During winter, the freeze and thaw cycle which causes roof moss to expand and contract, may lead to broken tiles, resulting in early degradation and a poor appearance. Roof repairs can be quite costly, replacing a roof is a luxury that many people cannot afford. With this in mind, roof cleaning and regular maintenance should be at the top of your priority list when it comes to jobs around the house. It also enhances kerb-appeal, for those thinking about selling their home.
What is our roof cleaning and roof moss removal process? Here at Dirt-free Exterior Cleaning, we pride ourselves as being a first-class roof cleaning and roof moss removal service and use several methods to clean our clients' roofs - after all, each kind of tile requires its own approach. Before we arrive on the job, we will have a consultation with you and will recommend a roof cleaning method which best suits your premises. We use bespoke roof cleaning equipment, with no ‘off the shelf’ karchers to be seen. Instead, we utilise adapted rotary surface cleaners and water-fed pole systems to deliver low-pressure steam cleaning, ensuring that your roof tiles
are met with the most delicate and thorough clean that can be achieved. Our 40ft water-fed pole systems also reduce the need to walk on your roof. Instead, we use pop-up tower scaffold systems and bespoke ladders to conduct the roof clean safely. We would only ever get on your roof under extraordinary circumstances and will use all the correct safety equipment to ensure that nobody is injured, as the health and safety of our workers and customers is paramount.
Pressure washing a roof - There is a common misconception that using pressure washers for roof cleaning will damage your roof and, well, depending on the type of roof tile and pressure used, that can be correct. Using a pressure washer at high pressure has the ability to cause damage on any surface, hence why we avoid high pressure roof cleaning. Industrial pressure washers operate anywhere between 250-300bar, we use extremely low pressure (around 80bar) to ensure that we don't damage the surface of your tiles while gently removing the roof moss and ensuring a thorough roof clean. So what kind of tile can be pressure washed? As long as they are in good condition, most clay tiles react perfectly well to pressure washing. Some concrete tiles will also have good results however, they should be avoided if they are coloured, as pressure washing can leave them looking patchy.
Steam cleaning a roof - This is our preferred method for roof cleaning (depending on the tile). Natural stone tiles such as slate react really well to steam cleaning given that they need a delicate approach. This may also be the preferred method of cleaning if some of the tiles are old and fragile. It is worthwhile noting however, that steam cleaning can remove any sealant which may be on the tiles and as such, won’t be suitable for all surfaces. When booking our roof cleaning service, we will make a recommendation as to whether this method can be used or not.
Scraping / roof moss removal - We can attach nylon, metal or wire heads to the end of our pole systems to manually scrape the roof moss from your roof. We would carry this out from a scaffolding which would be set up next to your premises, avoiding walking on your roof where possible. This roof cleaning / roof moss removal service needs to be followed up with a soft wash treatment or biocide application, as the remaining spores will grow again fairly quickly.
Soft washing - This roof cleaning process uses commercial grade chemicals to break down and kill off any organic matter such as moss, algae and lichen. This process is also recommended as a follow up to any method of roof cleaning to ensure the greatest longevity of your results and can also be utilised as a means of ongoing maintenance.
After using our roof cleaning service, we will also rinse down your external windows, soffits and fascias, walls and clear your gutters. We would also recommend opting to have a commercial grade biocide / fungicidal wash applied as an optional extra, as it will help repel organic regrowth and ensure that your roof stays clean for as long as possible. Depending on the type of tile, we may also recommend that your roof is re-sealed so as to further protect your home from the elements.
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Using uninsured and unqualified people could be a costly mistake. Did you know that you can be held liable for the injury or death of persons while walking on your roof without the correct safety equipment? When you think about it like that, it is always best to use a safe, experienced and insured contractor. Give yourself peace of mind... Why not use a fully insured, professional roof cleaning company to bring your roof tiles back to their best?!
Is this roof cleaning service near me? Are you looking for a quote for roof cleaning and roof moss removal but not sure that we cover your area? Generally speaking, we cover Glasgow and Central Scotland for roof cleaning and roof moss removal. That being said, we are happy to travel nationwide to meet with customers’ specific requirements and we can carry out roof cleaning on larger commercial properties too. Simply click on the ‘contact us’ page and either submit an enquiry, or get in touch via Whatsapp, phone or email.​