Roof Cleaning | Milwaukee
Black streaks? Moss? Don’t pressure wash your roof! Leave it to us.
Unsightly black streaks and moss on your roof not only decrease your home’s curb appeal, but can actually shorten the life of your roof. Let us help today!
Why do I need to clean my roof?
All types of roofs will accumulate dirt over their lifespan. But beneath that dirt there can be a deeper, more dangerous problem. Black streaks and stains on shingle roofs are often the first signs of an algae that feeds on the limestone in your shingles. While not dangerous to humans, it can lead to many problems for your roof, including:
- Water damage caused by loose shingles
- Reduced structural integrity of your roof
- Increased heating and cooling costs
- Shortened roof life and expensive roof replacement
- Increased frequency and cost of roof repairs
The longer the algae has free reign to feed on your shingles, the more potential for damage. The algae, Gloeocapsa Magma, creates the black “streaks” by making its own sunscreen to protect itself from the direct sun. This allows the algae to continue multiplying and eventually moving down your roof with rain water. This algae does not go away on its own and will continue to multiply until it is removed. Without removal, the shingles will continue to weaken until they can no longer provide protection for your home. Prolong the life of your roof with cleaning, and avoid paying tens of thousands of dollars for a new one.
What can I expect from having my roof cleaned?
First off, our experts will inspect your roof for any existing damage, leaks, and algae. This allows us to formulate a plan to most effectively clean your unique roof. This will also allow for any repairs that need to be made before your roof cleaning.
We will then walk you through a plan to prepare for the roof cleaning, including moving away any furniture, covering external areas, and what you can expect during the cleaning itself.
Using environmentally friendly products, we will treat and rinse your roof, removing the algae and leaving your roof looking restored and preventing further damage. Say goodbye to black streaks and dark spots and hello to a beautiful, healthy roof!
Do dark spots and streaks mean I need a new roof?
Most asphalt roofs will, over time, develop dark spots and streaks due to natural algae growth. These blemishes, although unsightly, do not mean that you need a new roof. They do, however, mean that your roof needs to be treated to prevent further damage from the algae itself. Professional roof cleaning and treatment can remove these stains, leaving your roof looking restored and preventing further shingle breakdown as a result of the algae.
Why can’t I pressure wash my roof?
High-pressure washing does more damage than good to an asphalt shingle roof. Not only does it do a poor job of removing the algae, it can permanently damage the shingles or the substructure of the roof, leading to more immediate water damage. The extreme amount of force created by a high-pressure washer can strip the shingles clean off your roof, requiring extensive roof work.
What about harsh chemicals?
Using harsh chemicals such as bleach can remove the algae, however the runoff is both environmentally hazardous and will also kill any vegetation surrounding your home. We will use environmentally sound products that will clean your roof, remove any algae, and not damage your grass, plants or create dangerous runoff.
Any more questions? Call Milwaukee Handyman today.