Many people treat roof maintenance on an out-of-sight-out-of-mind basis, and only address roof problems when they become noticeable. However, this approach may be shortsighted because the natural elements are slowly but surely taking their toll on your roof, and in ways that are not always visible. This is especially true in southwest Florida, where the climate encourages algae, mold, and mildew buildup on roofs, and where sand and grit from our beaches builds up under shingles and within other nooks and crannies on your roof.

By the time you do notice the buildup of mold, mildew, and algae on your roof, these natural organisms are already starting to degrade roofing materials. In fact, some mold, mildew, and algae feed on various roofing materials, some produce harmful root systems, and still others produce acidic waste that can erode roofing materials.

Washing your roof presents the most cost-effective means of controlling roof mold, mildew, algae, and other contaminants, and Naples, Florida-area homeowners and businesses can opt for two different roof cleaning methods: pressure cleaning or soft washing. Both methods clean roofs and clear them of harmful contaminants, but the high-pressure flows of pressure washing are not appropriate for all roof types. Read on as Naples-based FCI Painting details the differences between the two roof cleaning methods. 

Many Roofs Cannot Take the Pressure of Power Washing

Also known as “power” washing, pressure cleaning can effectively clean all roofs and clear them of mold, mildew, algae, and pretty much all contaminants. However, the high-pressure flows can prove damaging to many roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, tile shingles, and some cedar shake shingles. This is especially true with regard to older roof shingles which have likely already been compromised to some extent by the elements.

Generally speaking, roof pressure washing should be restricted to those made out of metal and concrete, which can withstand the high pressure. That said, newer cedar shake shingles can handle pressure cleaning with lower pressure settings, and whether with a pressure cleaning or soft wash, should be followed up with an application of oil conditioning.   

Soft Washing the Preferred Option for Most SW FL Roofs

Roof soft washing was specifically designed as a minimally invasive, highly effective replacement cleaning method over pressure cleaning. Soft washing relies on powerful, eco-friendly chemicals that kill mold, mildew, algae, and other roof-degrading bacterial contamination, while also serving as a cleaning solution that dislodges dirt and grime. Not only does the soft wash solution kill harmful roof contaminants, but it also leaves a growth-inhibiting residue on the shingles that will help prevent future fungal growth. 

Turn to Professionals for your Roof-Cleaning Needs

In some cases, your roof may allow for a combination of cleaning methods, with targeted pressure cleaning for some areas and a follow-up soft wash for the entire roof. A professional home and business maintenance company, such as Naples, Florida-based FCI Painting, is intimately familiar with all aspects of roofing construction and maintenance. As such, they are adept at tailoring the perfect cleaning solution for your home or business roofing.   

FCI Painting has more than 20 years of experience and a solid reputation in helping southwest Florida homeowners and businesses maintain their premises. To learn more about how FCI Painting can help you with your roof cleaning and maintenance needs, contact us online, or give us a call at (239) 435-1001.