Having a dirty roof may not be bothersome at first. However, eventually, it can become a nightmare and it can be damaging to your entire house. There are many ways to clean your roof and one of the most recommended methods is pressure washing.
It is important to note that pressure washing could also be damaging and cause serious problems if not performed properly. For those of you wondering, “Should I get my roof pressure washed?” and “How often should I pressure wash my roof?” here is your one-stop shop guide that will enable you to hire the best pressure washing service providers in your area.
A Glimpse on Pressure Wash
When it comes to pressure washing, there are certain properties you need to familiarize yourself with. Having a perfect understanding of these properties will help you decide whether a contractor will do a fine job for your roof or not. Here are two of the most important things you need to remember:
Pounds per square inch (psi)
Psi refers to the pressure applied to break the bond between a surface and the grime on it. Always remember that a relatively high psi can only lead to serious damage to your roof. This is where the importance of the second property comes in.
Gallons per Minute (GPM)
GPM refers to how fast a pressure washing machine releases water. With a high GPM, a contractor can efficiently and thoroughly clean your roof regardless of having a low psi. The real miracle worker lies in this property.
“How often Should I Pressure Wash My Roof?”
Now that you know the basics about pressure wash, it is about time that you learn when you should get your roof pressure washed. The answer to this question is contingent upon what type of roof is installed in your house.
Cedar Shakes
It is highly recommended that you have your cedar shakes pressure washed every five years. Along with this, experts suggest that applying oil on newly pressure washed cedar shakes will help your roof last longer. This practice is believed to restrain the growth of new moss. Oiling your roof for maintenance purposes might be costly but it eventually pays off.
Composition
Pressure washing composition roofs is only recommended if and only if you really need to stop moss growth. This type of roof has ceramic shavings that are essential for deflecting heat. This heat-deflecting property is harmed when pressure washing is applied. The best thing you could do about your composition roof then is to employ preventive methods for moss growth. One of the most efficient maintenance techniques to counter moss growth includes the use of zinc annually or semi-annually.
Tiles
Tiles are high maintenance. They need to be cleaned as regularly as possible. They are also in need of tender care. With high psi, the smooth finish of your tiles can be damaged severely. As a result, moss growth will hasten, posting harm to your roof even more. Needless to point out, pressure washing tiled roofs is an extremely delicate procedure that needs to be done regularly.
Pressure washing your roof is also contingent upon two external factors: humidity and severity of present grime. Humidity encourages moss growth. During the summer, check your roof if it needs immediate cleaning. However, since dirt can build up through time, you must also check it as frequently as you can in order to prevent serious dilemmas in the long run.