Colorbond roofing requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best, as environmental factors like dirt, moss, lichen growth, and heavy rainfall can wear down the surface over time. Roof cleaning methods vary, and many homeowners are faced with the decision to do it themselves or hire a professional roof cleaning service. Both have their pros and cons, and knowing the risks and benefits is key to making the right choice for your roof type, whether it is metal, concrete, terracotta, or another.
This guide will go into more detail on both DIY and professional roof cleaning, the pros and cons of each and the key factors to consider; safety, process, equipment and cost.
DIY Colorbond Roof Cleaning: Worth It?
When homeowners choose to do it themselves, they do so to save money and be in control. Colorbond roof cleaning requires special care as they have smooth surfaces and can be damaged if the wrong techniques are used. Here’s a breakdown of the DIY option:
DIY Roof Cleaning Advantages:
- Cost Savings:
One of the biggest benefits of DIY roof cleaning is not having to pay for a professional team. By using a medium-pressure pressure washer and soft brush, you can clean your roof at a minimal cost. For metal roofs, you can use plain water or mild detergent and clean the roof without the need for expensive commercial detergents. - Personal Control and Flexibility:
When you do it yourself, you have total control over the cleaning process and the products you use. You can also choose when to clean the roof and work around your personal schedule and the ideal weather for roof cleaning. - Sense of Achievement:
For those who enjoy home improvements, cleaning your own roof can be satisfying. By using a gentle cleaning pad or soft-bristled brush you can see the difference and remove water stains and grease oil patches from your roof material. The result is a clean roof that adds to your home’s appeal.
DIY Roof Cleaning Challenges:
- Safety Risks:
Climbing a roof, especially a metal roof, can be dangerous without proper gear. Protective clothing, eye protection and a safety harness is a must to prevent falls or accidents. Metal roofs are smooth and slippery, especially when wet and without experience it’s a big risk. - Limited Cleaning Power:
DIY roof cleaning may not be as effective as professional cleaning because of limited tools and experience of the homeowner. High power cleaning agents used by pros are needed to remove stubborn non-water elements like black patches, lichen residue or rust stains. Using too much pressure on a pressure washer can damage the protective coating or paint systems of the roof. - Risk of Roof Damage:
Using harsh chemicals, such as abrasive detergent or a pressure washer, with too much force can damage the roof surface and cause rust pieces or structural damage over time. The wrong cleaning technique can also cause roof leaks or compromise the roof’s integrity and cost you money for repairs in the future. - Time Consuming:
Cleaning your roof, especially a big roof with multiple roof panels can be time consuming and laborious. Without the right tools like a pressure sprayer, roof cleaning can take hours or even days depending on the level of dirt and moss or lichen growth.
Colorbond Roof Cleaning: The Safe Way
If you want safety and long term protection for your roofing materials, hiring a professional roof cleaning service is the way to go. Roofers have the right techniques and tools, medium pressure pressure washer and biocidal roof wash to do the cleaning without damaging the roof.
Benefits of Professional Roof Cleaning:
- Roof Type Expertise:
Professional roof cleaners know how to handle different roof types – concrete, steel, tile, etc. They know the specific cleaning requirements for each material and use the right techniques to remove water stains, dirt and organic growth without damaging the roof surface. - Full Cleaning:
A professional roof cleaning service uses advanced cleaning products and tools to remove stubborn dirt, lichen growth and moss. They also clean gutters so the whole roof cleaning schedule is completed efficiently. By using a soft brush, pressure cleaner and chemical wash when needed, professionals can get the roof back to its original state. - Safety:
A professional team uses the necessary safety gear – eye protection, safety harnesses and protective clothing – to work on the roof without getting injured. Especially for metal roofs where the risk of slipping is high. They use medium pressure on pressure washers to not damage the roof material. - Identifies Roof Issues Early:
During the cleaning process, professional roof cleaners can spot potential issues like roof leaks, rust stains or signs of wear on the roof’s coating. Early detection of these issues can prevent extensive damage and prolong the life of the roof over time. - Long Lasting Results and Preventative Measures:
Professional roof cleaners apply preventative measures – biocidal roof wash or touch up paint – to prevent future growth of organic matter and keep the roof looking good. The result is a clean roof that looks better and lasts longer, and there is less need for roof replacements.
Issues with Professional Roof Cleaning:
- Cost of Services:
While professional roof cleaning gives thorough and good results, the cost is higher than DIY cleaning. Size of the roof, extent of dirt and stains and condition of the roof surface affects the price. But the long term benefits often outweigh the initial cost. - Scheduling and Availability:
Coordinating with a professional roofing company can be tough sometimes, especially during peak seasons or after heavy rainfall when many homeowners need roof cleaning services. Plan your roof cleaning schedule ahead of time to avoid delays.
Conclusion
Do you clean your roof yourself or hire a professional? It all depends on your situation – your comfort with heights, access to safety gear and the condition of your roof. For homeowners with dirty roofs that need a full clean, including removal of organic growth and stubborn stains, a professional roofing company is the way to go. Not only will a professional clean your roof properly, but it will also prevent future damage and extend its life.
For smaller, cleaner roofs or if you want to save costs DIY cleaning can be an option but you must follow safety precautions and use the right cleaning products and tools, such as a pressure sprayer, soft-bristled brush and mild detergent. However for best results periodic maintenance by professional roof cleaners is recommended to keep the roof in good condition and prevent damage over time.
FAQ
Is a pressure washer safe for metal roofs like Colorbond?
Yes but you must use medium pressure and not too much force which can damage the coating or roof materials. A professional roof cleaning service is trained to use the right pressure to clean effectively without harming the roof surface.
How often should I clean my roof?
Roof cleaning should be done at least once a year or more often in areas with heavy rainfall, organic growth or lichen residue. For metal roofs a roof cleaning schedule is crucial to prevent rust stains and damage over time.
Can I use chemical washing on my roof?
Chemical washing is sometimes needed to remove tough stains or organic growth. But you must use chemical cleaning products that are safe for roofing materials. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive detergent that can damage the roof surface. A professional team will know what cleaning agents to use.
What are the risks of DIY roof cleaning?
DIY cleaning poses risks of falls, improper use of equipment like pressure washers and using the wrong cleaning techniques that can damage the roof structure. You must wear safety gear like eye protection and safety harness and follow proper cleaning procedures.
How much does professional roof cleaning cost?
Cost of professional roof cleaning depends on the type of roof, size and level of dirt or stains. Generally professional roof cleaning services range from $300 to $600 but this can vary depending on the roofing company and condition of the roof.