Roof Cleaning in Austin, TX, is a multi-step process that would benefit from professional expertise. We always recommend working with licensed roof-washing experts to prevent ladder-related injuries and property damage. However, if you are comfortable with the risks and want to improve your curb appeal through DIY sanitation, here are a few things you can do.
Never Use a Pressure Washer
There are numerous companies in Los Angeles offering pressure washing services for roofs and delicate exterior structures. However, we advise against using their services.
Pressure washers can expel water at speeds exceeding 3500 PSI, which can significantly shorten the lifespan of shingles and stone tiles. Asphalt and clay shingles are particularly prone to cracking under such forceful streams. Even if the shingles don’t crack, the high-pressure water can erode their adhesives, leading to premature deterioration.
Galvanized metal roofs typically have protective coatings of zinc or copper to prevent rust and oxidation. Using a power washer can strip away these protective layers, leaving the metal vulnerable to damage and causing it to warp or curve.
Use Rust-Free Metal and Alloy Ladders Only
According to industry research, hundreds of fatalities in construction sites and blue-collar workplaces are due to ladder-related injuries.
Here are a few ladder safety tips for roof cleaning in Austin, TX:
- Find a stable and level surface that the upper and lower sections of a ladder can rest on without tilting or moving.
- Plant your ladder at a 75-degree angle from the ground so it does not lean over and fall.
- Store your ladders horizontally in a dry environment to prevent oxidation and sagging.
- Avoid using wooden ladders that show signs of rot and other structural issues, no matter how minor.
Our technicians earn numerous certifications before using industrial machinery in elevated platforms, and we supply them with high-quality movable ladders and telescopic booms to do their job safely.
Use Eco-Friendly Cleaners
Corrosive cleaners have the potential to damage and discolor tilework, as many residents in our service areas have unfortunately discovered, often resulting in costly roof repairs. To help you navigate the options available at home improvement stores, here are some tips:
- Cleaning Your Roof with Bleach: Bleach alone may not effectively eliminate organic matter like algae without additional ingredients to enhance its efficacy. Consider using bleach-based surfactants instead of diluting bleach with water.
- Post-Rinse Products: Some surfactants and bleach-based cleaners may leave residues that could harm surrounding plants and wildlife. To protect your flower beds and pets, use a post-rinse neutralizer after cleaning.
- Roof Washing with Odor Maskers: Odor maskers can be beneficial for homes in urban areas where there are persistent odors from garbage, smoke, and mold. However, if you live in areas with high wind traffic near open spaces, such products may be unnecessary.
As the leading independent provider of high-quality roof cleaning in Austin, TX, our technicians at Cosmo Roten answer numerous inquir