South Florida’s hot, humid climate and frequent rainfall create the perfect environment for moss and algae growth, especially on rooftops. Homeowners know that regular roof cleaning and maintenance is essential to prevent the accumulation of debris and unwanted moss and algae growth.
Cleaning your roof during spring enhances the beauty of your home but also safeguards your roof from structural issues and potential water damage. Roofing contractors confirm that there are also other benefits when you add your roof to your spring cleaning checklist.
8 Benefits Of Scheduled Roof Cleaning
Regular roof cleaning is a vital responsibility of all homeowners, but never one you should attempt yourself. Professional roof cleaners will confirm that a clean and maintained roof is not only important for curb appeal but is vital to maintaining the roof’s structural integrity.
There are numerous benefits to adhering to a regular, roof cleaning schedule including
- Increasing the property value
- Preventing structural damage
- Saving on costly repairs
- Protecting against mold and algae growth
- Avoiding insurance and warranty issues
- Preventing pest infestation
- Improving energy efficiency
- Environmental considerations
1. Increases Property Value
A well-maintained, clean roof automatically contributes to the home’s curb appeal. Dirt, stains, algae, and moss are an eyesore that detracts from the beauty of your home.
Potential buyers are often deterred by roofs that appear aged, damaged, or badly maintained, even if the roof is structurally sound. A clean roof not only maintains your home value but also enhances it.
2. Prevents Structural Damage
When dirt, debris, algae, and moss accumulate on a roof, they trap moisture. When moisture is trapped beneath roofing materials like shingles and tiles, it compromises the strength and durability of the roofing materials.
Wood is particularly vulnerable to rot when continually exposed to water. Rotting wooden roof structures eventually leads to the roof deck sagging, serious structural issues, and overall roof instability.
Trapped moisture can lead to the compromise of waterproofing materials. When waterproofing is compromised, water seeps into the roof insulation, causing it to become less effective. Wet insulation is also a breeding ground for dangerous mold that compromises indoor air quality.
3. Saves On Costly Repairs
Regular roof cleaning allows you to spot minor defects early. Minor defects are a lot less costly to repair than defects that have been neglected. Regular cleaning also removes the build-up of substances that contribute to the deterioration of roofing materials.
Keeping your roof clean extends the roof’s lifespan, ultimately saving you money on costly repairs and premature replacement.
4. Protects Against Mold And Algae Growth
Retained moisture provides the ideal conditions for mold and algae growth. Mold and algae not only make the roof look unsightly, but they also pose a dangerous health risk. Mold and algae release airborne spores during their reproductive cycle. These spores carried by the wind, enter the home through windows and doors and cause:
- Allergic reactions with symptoms like sneezing, coughing, itchy, watery eyes and nasal congestion
- Respiratory issues, especially in those suffering from asthma
- Skin irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin.
- Indoor air quality issues that cause a variety of symptoms like headaches and fatigue.
5. Prevents Insurance And Warranty Issues
Neglecting roof cleaning and maintenance may lead to insurance problems. Some insurance companies may refuse damage claims if the roof has not been regularly cleaned and maintained, as a dirty roof is perceived as homeowner negligence.
Failure to clean and maintain your roof may also lead to warranty issues. Many roofing material manufacturers stipulate regular roof maintenance in their warranty terms and conditions, and failing to keep the roof clean may void the warranty.
6. Prevents Pest Infestation
Debris and other organic matter on a dirty roof provide the ideal nesting conditions for pests, birds, insects, and rodents. These pests not only cause damage to the roof and roofing materials but could also access your home.
Regular roof cleaning elevates the indoor temperature and eliminates these habitats, reducing the risk of pest infestation.
7. Improves Energy Efficiency
Stained and dirty roofs absorb sunlight. In Florida’s hot sunny months, this extra heat absorption significantly elevates the room temperature, forcing homeowners to use the air conditioner more.
The air conditioner is a major contributor to the utility bill. A clean roof reflects sunlight, keeping the indoor temperature cooler, reducing reliance on the air conditioner, and improving energy efficiency.
8. Environmental Considerations
Dirty roofs attract algae and mold. During reproduction, algae and mold release dangerous spores into the air, adversely affecting the air quality.
Water sources could also be contaminated by the debris runoff from your roof during a rainstorm. By keeping your roof clean, you automatically protect the natural ecosystem and provide a healthier environment for your home.
A Roof Cleaning Checklist
Professional roof cleaners will have a comprehensive cleaning checklist. By following a comprehensive checklist, roof cleaners systematically check and clean all aspects of the roof, ensuring that all areas of the roof are inspected and your roof remains in optimal condition.
A roof spring cleaning and maintenance checklist may include the following:
- Visual inspection – As a homeowner, you can only do a basic visual inspection without climbing onto the roof. Look out for signs of damage such as loose tiles or shingles, and sagging areas of debris build-up.
Only expert roofing contractors should climb onto the roof for a more thorough inspection.
- Gutter and downspout cleaning – Clogged gutters and downspouts do not allow water to drain effectively, resulting in water pooling/retention. Roof cleaners have specialized tools and equipment to remove leaves, twigs, and debris, allowing for proper water flow.
- Checking for moss and algae – Moss and algae growth damage roofing materials. Roof cleaners use specialized moss and algae cleaning solutions to clean and treat the affected areas, prevent further growth, and protect the roof from damage.
- Check for and remove debris, and trim branches – Using brooms and leaf blowers, roof cleaners will clear debris like leaves, branches, and moss that have accumulated on the roof. Special attention will be paid to areas like flashing, valleys, and around chimneys. All overhanging branches will be trimmed to prevent damage, especially during a storm.
- Look for animal nests – Before cleaning and treating the roof, the roof will be inspected for any signs of animal and insect nests. These will be removed, and safety measures like mesh or screens may be installed to prevent future nesting.
ABC Roofing – Your Trusted South Florida Roofing Company
For over 30 years, residents of South Florida have trusted their roofing needs to ABC Roofing. Family-owned, licensed, and certified, plus backed by several awards, we are confident that we can attend to all your roofing needs. Give us a call today at (954) 344-4622 for all your roofing needs.
