The Risks of Traditional Roof Cleaning Methods
Traditional roof cleaning methods, such as power washing or pressure washing, can damage your Vallejo home's asphalt shingle roofs in several ways:
- Stripping Granules: High-pressure water streams can dislodge and strip away the protective granules on the shingles, reducing their lifespan and potentially voiding the manufacturer's warranty.
- Damaging Shingles: The intense pressure and water flow can crack, break, or dislodge shingles, especially if they are already damaged or weakened.
- Removing Sealants: Pressure washing can wash away the sealants between shingles, compromising the roof's waterproofing and potentially leading to leaks.
- Creating Opportunities for Mold and Mildew: The high-pressure water can drive water under the shingles, creating a moist environment that fosters the growth of mold and mildew.
The Benefits of Soft Washing
Soft washing, on the other hand, is a gentle, low-pressure cleaning method that uses a specialized solution to remove dirt, grime, and algae stains from asphalt shingle roofs. The benefits of soft washing include:
- Preserves Granules: Soft washing does not strip away the protective granules on the shingles, ensuring the roof's integrity and longevity.
- Safeguards Shingles: The low-pressure cleaning method does not damage or dislodge shingles, even if they are already weakened.
- Maintains Sealants: Soft washing does not wash away the sealants between shingles, ensuring the roof's waterproofing remains intact.
- Prevents Mold and Mildew: The soft washing solution helps to prevent the growth of mold and mildew by removing the organic matter that fosters their growth.
Industry Recommendations
The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) and other reputable roofing organizations recommend soft washing as the only safe and effective method for cleaning asphalt shingle roofs.
Conclusion
Soft roof washing is the only recommended method for cleaning asphalt shingle roofs because it preserves the integrity of the roof, safeguards the shingles, maintains the sealants, and prevents mold and mildew growth. Traditional roof cleaning methods, such as power washing or pressure washing, can damage the roof and potentially void the manufacturer's warranty.
Location: Vallejo, CA
Project Image Gallery
