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Power Washing Roofs

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Return To Roofing Article Archive   Search the Article Archives Power Washing Roofs By Henry Bockman There are a few ways to clean roofs but they all rely on the same principle, low pressure cleaning with the use of a cleaning agent. Most roof cleaners use a sodium hydroxide base or sodium Hypochlorite. Bleach is used most often, but sometimes with disastrous results. GAF roofing says that the use of bleach immediately voids any warranty on an asphalt roof because it breaks down the composition of the shingle. These stains are impossible to remove without the aid of chemicals. Caustics are inexpensive and very effective for killing mold. No matter which method or cleaner you use they can cause significant plant damage around the home or to the roof if not used properly. Safety is also a huge factor in roof cleaning, using an OSHA approved safety harness and ropes are a must. Never attempt cleaning a roof without proper safety precautions; even the flattest roof can become slippery and hazardous when wet. Most roof cleaning requests will be for removing green mildew or black streaks and stains (mold algae also known as 'gloeocapsa magma'). These stains significantly affect the look of any home. On occasion you will also notice moss growing on roofs, what the home owner may not realize is that mildew and moss can actually eat away the roofing on the home. In the past, the only way to get rid of them was to replace the roof. It has been estimated that as much as 50% of all roof replacements have been done because of the appearance of the roof and not actually because of its functionality. We suggest using the following method: First, using an X-Jet, wet the roof slightly to cool it down. Also soak the ground and any plants near the downspouts to dilute the cleaner. Second, using a chicken ladder along with a roped harness or another OSHA approved method, apply your roof cleaner. This can be done with an X-Jet, pump up sprayer or Shurflow pump, no matter which method you use apply it to the shingles from the lowest part of the roof up to the peak. When applying cleaners make sure you don't shoot them under the shingles, if using an X-Jet shoot above the roof and allow the cleaner to "fall" onto the roofing like rain. After applying your cleaner, allow the cleaner to work for about 15 minutes then begin power washing with 100-300PSI from the peak of the roof down. Always make sure the spray from your wand is aimed down the roof, never across or up the incline. This will shoot water under the shingles and cause leaks. It will also get cleaner on the nails that fasten down the shingles. Most roof cleaning chemicals will cause rapid rusting of fasteners. Finally, rinse the surface and plants around the area well. Rinsing of the roof can be done from the ground using your X-Jet. About the Author: Henry Bockman has received environmental and wood certifications from the Power Washers of North America, Wolman, ABR and numerous awards for his company Henry's Housework Inc. http://www.henryshousework.com His company uses professional power washing products from http://www.SunBritesupplymd.com Barge Rafter

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