When you want to begin spring cleaning your metal roof, start looking for professional roof cleaners. It’s far better to have a licensed, bonded and insured professional climb your roof to clean it. They have the equipment, including safety equipment and the skills needed to wash your metal roof in a way that’s safe for them, for you and for your roof. However, if you must clean your roof yourself, here is how to go about it.
Inspect Your Roof
Walk around your home, and inspect your roof. Use binoculars if it would help you to better see debris, dings, dents, stains and other damage.
Do Some Research
You may have noticed areas of chalking, algae, mold or rust on your roof. Chalking is a white powder that develops on the roof’s paint, which can be caused by pollution or other problems. Sometimes you can easily see it, but other times it won’t be noticeable until you’re on your roof. The best way and best solvents to remove chalking and the other mentioned problems depend on the type of paint or coating on your roof.
Gather Your Tools
Now, after you’ve decided you’re going to do the roof yourself, gather your tools. Tools include:
- Clean washcloths
- Soft-bristle brush
- Ladder, preferably OSHA approved
- Non-foam sponge
- Mild cleanser such as dishwashing detergent
- Garden hose
- Safety gear. These include boots or shoes with soles that grip, clothes that aren’t too loose and safety goggles. You should also invest in a harness and other equipment that offers fall protection.
- Garden hose
Washing the Roof
Wash the roof on a mild, overcast day. A hot, sunny day may heat the metal to the point where it can burn you. Aim the garden hose as high as you can to reach the ridge line. Move around the house to make sure you cover all of the roof. Sometimes plain water is all you need to clean your roof. You might need to move patio furniture out of the way or cover foundation plants. This keeps the dirty water from dripping on them.
If there are still stubborn spots on the roof, fill a bucket with a half cup of cleanser and a gallon of water, then apply it with a sponge or a cloth. Let it sit for a few minutes and rinse. It’s best to use the cleanser in small sections. This makes it easier to rinse away before it sinks into the roof.
If your roof has problems such as rust or chalking, buy the right cleanser or solvent for them. If the roof is still under warranty, make sure the solvent doesn’t void it. Test it first on a part of your roof that’s hard to see. If you have trouble at any stage, call professional roofers to do the job. Contact us at Handyman Roofing in Tampa, FL for reliable, prompt metal roofing services.
