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Is Soft Wash Roof Cleaning Safe?

Soft wash roof cleaning on an asphalt shingle roof

Central Texas’ humid air and summer heat can take a real toll on roofs. Shade from big oak trees adds to the problem by keeping surfaces damp, which invites the dark streaks that make a home look older than it is. Many homeowners see soft wash roof cleaning as a good option, but they often wonder whether it is safe for their shingles.

What Is Soft Wash Roof Cleaning?

Soft washing is a roof cleaning method that relies on low pressure and a special blend of biodegradable detergents, water, and a cleaning chemical, generally bleach (sodium hypochlorite). This mixture removes algae, moss, lichen, and black streaks from the roof.

Unlike conventional high-pressure power washing, the technique uses very low pressure, similar to the strength of a garden hose.

Is Soft Wash Roof Cleaning Safe for Shingles?

Yes. The technique is considered safe for most shingle roofs, thanks to its low pressure and the cleaning solutions it uses.

The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) recommends against using power washers on asphalt shingles because high-pressure washing can damage the roofing and loosen granules.

The reason is simple. Tiny granules cover asphalt shingles and block the sun’s UV rays, protecting the shingles from breaking down. A strong water spray can loosen these granules and age the roof sooner. That is why ARMA advises against using high-pressure washing on asphalt shingles. However, pressure washing in TX is ideal for hard surfaces like driveways, patios, and sidewalks.

What Are the Benefits of Soft Washing?

Soft washing a roof offers several benefits:

  • Low-pressure application reduces the risk of damage to roofs, siding, and other delicate materials. 
  • It kills organic growth like algae at the source and helps slow its return
  • Cleaning solutions require careful handling and proper protection of nearby plants, pets, and drainage areas.
  • It removes algae and other organic growth without the damaging pressure of conventional power washing.

 

If you’re dealing with dark streaks on your roof, you can also learn more about how soft washing removes black streaks from your home.

How Do You Know If Your Roof Needs Cleaning?

Some signs that your roof needs cleaning are:

  • Green patches of lichen or moss
  • Black or dark streaks across the roof
  • Staining that worsens after rainy or humid weeks

What Happens During a Professional Roof Cleaning?

Understanding the basic cleaning process will help you spot a quality contractor. A typical visit looks like this:

  • Inspection: The technician analyzes the roof type, its condition, and the amount of algae or mold growth.
  • Protection: They prepare nearby surfaces and plants before cleaning begins.
  • Application: A blend of biodegradable detergents, cleaning chemicals, and water is applied at low pressure.
  • Dwell time: The solution is left on the roof for a while, allowing it to break down moss and algae.
  • Gentle rinse: The roof is washed gently with low-pressure water.

How Do You Choose Reliable Roof Cleaning Services?

When searching for roof cleaning services near me, ask each company the following questions:

  • Are you insured for roof work?
  • Will you share before and after photos with us?
  • Will you use low pressure to clean my roof?
  • What cleaning solutions do you use, and are they right for my shingles?
  • Have you worked on similar roofing materials?

Wrapping Up

Soft washing can help remove algae and dark streaks from your roof without the risks associated with high-pressure washing. When looking for roof cleaning services near you, make sure you choose an insured contractor who understands your roofing material and uses appropriate cleaning methods.

At Patriot Power Washing, we provide soft washing and roof cleaning services in Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, and nearby Central Texas communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Soft washing is a reliable and effective method for cleaning asphalt shingles and other roof materials. It uses low-pressure water and specially designed cleaning solutions to kill growth effectively.

It depends on factors like humidity, shade, and how quickly algae or moss grows. For an exact answer, schedule a professional consultation. The contractor will inspect your roof and its overall condition before suggesting a schedule.

It’s best not to. High or improper pressure can damage shingles, and roofs can be dangerous to work on.

Soft washing solutions need to be handled and applied carefully around people, pets, plants, and landscaping. A professional contractor should take steps to protect nearby plants and other sensitive areas during cleaning. Keep pets and children away from the work area during service, and ask the contractor how they protect landscaping and manage runoff.

Yes, they can. Algae spores travel through the air and can settle on a cleaned roof again. To slow regrowth, you can choose algae-resistant shingles at your next roof replacement.

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