Roof cleaning is an important part of maintaining the functionality and aesthetics of your home. But many Australians say they don’t clean their roof often.
In this article, we’ll explain the benefits and importance of cleaning your roof often, as well as a guideline for the recommended frequency of roof cleaning in Australia.
Roof Cleaning 101: When, How, and Why Should You Be Cleaning Your Roof
Why Should You Clean Your Roof?
Every day your roof must endure the elements. Whether it be harsh sun, massive storms, or even hail, your roof does it’s job of protecting your home and your family each day, no matter what is thrown at it.
Over time, dirt and other potentially harmful bacteria and debris builds up and impacts your roof. This can even affect the integrity of your roofing material and structure.
You may have noticed dark patches and stains appearing on your roof over time, these darker areas usually are made up of algae, moss, or fungus.
These stains can lead to all kinds of problems for your roof. Your shingles can become brittle and crack or fall apart, as bacteria enjoy the moist and nutrient-rich environment created on and around your tiles. Wood in your roof may begin to rot. Roof rot can be difficult to identify, and before you know it you may have collapsed areas in your roofing.
If not cleaned properly and frequently enough, your roof shingles may fall apart, or rust must form in your metal sheet roof, leading to holes and roof leaks that can be costly to repair and may lead to extensive water damage in your home.
One reason to clean your roof is to extend the life of your shingles or other roofing material. While algae aren’t too harmful to certain shingle materials, such as asphalt, moss is. Moss covered shingles can begin to contort and curl upwards, leaving them exposed to wind damage and potentially blown off your roof.
When Is The Best Time To Clean Your Roof?
While your roof can be cleaned any time of year, Spring is a popular time many homeowners decide to have their roofs cleaned, for a variety of reasons.
People like to do spring cleaning in October. Following winter, your roof has likely been exposed to a lot of wet, cold weather conditions – and even ice. Spring brings new life, making your roof a potential breeding ground for moss, algae and other bacteria. Getting ahead of the season with a thorough roof clean can help prevent this matter from forming on your roof.
How Often Should You Be Cleaning Your Roof?
To be safe and prevent any risk of roof leaks or other damage, it is recommended your roof is cleaned professionally at least once a year. The reason for this frequency is that it is not too long that when a problem area is present, it can be reversed and taken care of before your roof is damaged.
Of course, if you notice your roof is particularly dirty (this may be the case if your home is situated beneath trees, or is frequently exposed to harsh storms), it may be necessary to increase this frequency.
If you’re located in Queensland, our team at Nev’s Roof Restoration provides expert roof cleaning services in Brisbane.