Cleaning Asphalt Shingles with Pressure Washers: Best Tips and Troubleshooting Guide
Maintaining the appearance and longevity of your home's asphalt shingle roof is essential for protecting your investment if you are in Jefferson, surrounding areas, or anywhere else in the world.
One effective way to keep those shingles clean and free of debris is by using a pressure washer.
However, while pressure washing can be a powerful tool, it also comes with its own set of challenges.
In this article as pressure washing and soft wash gurus here at The Cannon Pressure Washing, we will delve into the best tips for cleaning asphalt shingles with pressure washers and explore common difficulties homeowners encounter, along with our expert solutions.
First, we will hit the brief before taking a look at how to keep your asphalt roof tiles looking their best.
Choosing the right pressure washer, nozzle, and pressure settings, preparing the area, applying a roof cleaning solution, and rinsing thoroughly are essential steps for effective cleaning. Regular maintenance and prevention measures, like installing zinc or copper strips and keeping gutters clear, are recommended to extend the life of your shingles.
Okay so with the short answer in place, let's start with some of my best expert tips.
Best Tips for Cleaning Asphalt Shingles with Pressure Washers
Maintaining the pristine appearance of your home's asphalt shingle roof can significantly enhance its curb appeal and longevity. When it comes to cleaning asphalt shingles, using a pressure washer can be a game-changer, but it's essential to do it right to avoid damage.
Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or tackling this task for the first time, these insights will help you achieve remarkable results while preserving the integrity of your roof.
- Safety First: Before diving into any DIY project, safety should be your top priority. When using a pressure washer, always wear appropriate safety gear, including goggles, gloves, and non-slip footwear. Be cautious of electrical wires, and if you're not comfortable with heights, consider hiring a professional to do the job.
- Choose the Right Pressure Washer: Selecting the appropriate pressure washer is crucial. For asphalt shingles, opt for a gas-powered pressure washer with a PSI (pounds per square inch) rating between 1,200 and 1,500. This range provides sufficient power without risking damage to the shingles.
- Use the Correct Nozzle and Pressure Setting: Pressure washers come with different nozzles, each designed for specific tasks. For shingle cleaning, use a wide-angle nozzle, such as a 25-degree tip. Start with a lower pressure setting, around 1,200 PSI, and gradually increase it if necessary. High-pressure settings can damage shingles, so exercise caution.
- Preparing the Area: Remove any obstacles or debris from your roof, such as leaves, branches, and moss, before starting. Cover nearby plants and landscaping with tarps to protect them from detergent and debris runoff.
- Apply a Roof Cleaning Solution: To effectively clean asphalt shingles, use a specialized roof cleaning solution. These solutions are designed to break down stains, algae, and moss. Apply the solution evenly using a low-pressure setting on the pressure washer or a garden sprayer. Allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing.
- Gentle and Even Pressure: Maintain a consistent distance of 6 to 12 inches between the nozzle and the shingles. Keep the pressure washer wand at a slight angle to prevent water from going under the shingles. Move in a controlled, overlapping pattern to ensure thorough cleaning without damaging the surface.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After applying the cleaning solution, thoroughly rinse the shingles with clean water. Ensure that no detergent residue remains, as it can lead to future staining.
Common Difficulties and How to Overcome Them
When it comes to maintaining the beauty and longevity of your home, caring for your asphalt roof is crucial.
However, like any other part of your property, asphalt roofs can encounter their fair share of challenges.
In this section, we'll delve into common problems that homeowners face when washing asphalt roofs and provide valuable insights on how to overcome them.
Whether you're dealing with stubborn stains, moss growth, or other issues, we've got you covered with practical solutions to ensure your roof remains in top-notch condition.
Soft washing vs high powered pressure washing
One of the biggest issues homeowners can face when cleaning asphalt roofs is using too much pressure which could damage your roof.
Soft washing is the preferred method for cleaning asphalt roofs over high-powered pressure washing due to several compelling reasons.
Asphalt roofs are relatively delicate compared to harder surfaces, and high-pressure washing can potentially cause significant damage.
Soft washing, on the other hand, utilizes a gentle yet effective approach, using low-pressure water combined with specialized cleaning solutions to break down and remove dirt, grime, and mildew without harming the roof's surface.
Asphalt shingles and tiles are also susceptible to erosion, and high-pressure washing can strip away protective granules, leading to premature wear and tear.
Soft washing avoids this issue by being non-abrasive and preserving the integrity of the roofing material.
As a bonus, soft washing is also much more environmentally friendly as it uses fewer resources and chemicals than high-pressure methods, reducing the environmental impact of the cleaning process.
Stubborn Stains
If you encounter stubborn stains that don't come off easily, try gently scrubbing them with a soft-bristle brush before using the pressure washer.
Avoid using excessive force to prevent shingle damage.
Moss and Algae
Moss and algae growth can be challenging to remove completely.
To prevent their return, you could think about installing zinc or copper strips at the roof's ridge.
Rainwater will wash over these strips, releasing ions that inhibit moss and algae growth.
Damaged Shingles
Excessive pressure or incorrect nozzle selection can cause shingle damage.
If you notice any cracked or loosened shingles, address them promptly to prevent leaks.
Consult a roofing professional if extensive damage occurs.
Other things to consider when power washing asphalt tiles
Ok so let's do a round-up of other important things to consider when cleaning your asphalt tiles like a pro.
Consider Professional Help for Safety and Efficiency
While DIY projects can be fulfilling, roof cleaning is not without its risks.
If you have concerns about your safety or lack experience with pressure washers, it's wise to consider hiring a professional roofing contractor.
Experts in asphalt pressure washing have the necessary training and equipment to handle roof cleaning efficiently and safely.
They can also identify and address any underlying issues, such as damaged shingles or leaks, during the process.
Environmental Considerations
When using a pressure washer, be mindful of environmental concerns.
Roof cleaning solutions can contain chemicals harmful to plants and aquatic life.
Ensure that your cleaning solution is eco-friendly, and follow local regulations for disposing of runoff water.
You may also want to capture the runoff in a designated container for proper disposal.
Regular Maintenance
Once you've successfully cleaned your asphalt shingles, it's essential to establish a regular maintenance routine.
Depending on your climate and the prevalence of moss and algae in your area, you may need to clean your roof every 2-5 years.
Routine maintenance helps prevent the buildup of stubborn stains and extends the life of your shingles.
Invest in Prevention
Preventing moss, algae, and debris buildup on your roof can save you time and money in the long run as we discovered above.
Keeping your gutters clear of debris helps prevent water from backing up onto the roof, which can exacerbate staining and moss growth.
The Importance of Regular Inspections
Regular roof inspections are crucial to identify any issues early on.
After each cleaning, inspect your asphalt shingles for signs of damage or wear.
Look for cracked or curled shingles, loose granules, or damaged flashing.
Addressing these problems promptly can prevent more extensive and costly repairs down the road.
Cleaning Asphalt Shingles with Pressure Washers - To end on…
So if you are looking for the ultimate in professional asphalt roof cleaning in Jefferson or surrounding areas, our team of experts specializes in providing premium pressure washing services, leaving your property in pristine condition.
Using high-quality equipment and cutting-edge techniques, we effectively eliminate dirt, grime, and stains from your asphalt roof.
We employ the soft wash technique, a gentle yet highly effective cleaning method that safeguards your roof's integrity while removing grime and mildew.
This approach is especially advantageous for shingles, tiles, and delicate areas susceptible to damage from high-pressure washing.
We are dedicated to preserving the beauty and durability of your roof ensuring it continues to offer the protection your property truly deserves!
CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE FROM The Cannon Pressure Washing IN GAINESVILLE!