If you've been inspecting your roof regularly, you'll know when it's time to give it a thorough cleaning. To cut time and work more efficiently, keep the following five tips in mind.
- Sweep with a push broom. Start from the top and work your way down, pushing leaves, branches, and other debris in the direction of the shingles-never sideways or from the bottom up.
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There is never a need for a garden hose. It may be tempting to "get the job done faster" with high water pressure, but it's not worth the risk of actually causing water damage to your roof.
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Unblock keyways. Keyways are the gaps between shakes or shingles, in which smaller debris tends to get caught. Gently unblock them with a stiff brush.
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Mold and mildew must go. If you have a wood roof, it may be tedious to scrape out the mold and mildew that can grow on and under the shingles. But neglecting it can be a costly mistake. Gently scrape out the offending growth with a dull knife, being careful not to damage the shingles.
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Be careful. It should go unsaid, but approach any roof-cleaning project with care. Never hurry, and if you can't walk with normal footing, it may be worth calling a Seattle roofing professional to help.
