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Last updated: 19 July 2024
Planning for a roof clean
Considering roof cleaning? We outline the different roof cleaning methods and help to identify the safest and most effective approach for various types of roofs.
A clean roof can instantly lift your property's appearance. However, while roof cleaning has many benefits, there are some key facts to be aware of to help protect the integrity of this important part of your home.
We cover this and more in our complete guide to roof cleaning.
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Why get your roof cleaned?
A roof can only protect your home effectively if it's fit for purpose - part of ensuring this is keeping it clean.
Over time, moss, lichen, dirt, and debris can build up on your roof, which can cause the tiles to be displaced and/or structural damage to your home. Moss and algae also hold moisture against your roof, which can lead to rot and leaks.
Roof cleaning removes this matter, which can lead to several benefits...
The benefits of a roof clean
Removing matter like moss and algae from your home through roof cleaning will help to extend the lifespan of your roof and improve the appearance of your property. It'll also help to keep your gutters clear.
In addition to this, roof cleaning can save you money.
Let us explain.
Regular maintenance can prevent these harmful growths and debris from causing costly structural damage to your roof. Plus, a clean roof will help you to more easily identify any issues early on, which usually helps to avoid expensive roof repairs further down the line.
If you're preparing to sell your home, a clean roof can add to the overall appeal of your property too.
When's the best time to have your roof cleaned?
With this in mind, when is the best time of year to get your roof professionally cleaned?
There are two key factors to consider:
Weather conditions: Drier weather will help the cleaning solutions to work effectively and help the roof to dry faster post-clean
Moss growth: As you might imagine, moss and algae thrive in wetter weather, so cleaning your roof in late spring/summer can help you get ahead
The best time of year to clean your roof in the UK is normally late spring or summer.
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Types of roof cleaning
There are several different approaches to roof cleaning. It's important to understand the differences to help you choose the right option for your particular style of roof and to meet your overall objective.
For example, do you want your roof to be restored to its 'like-new' condition, or do you simply want the moss to be removed?
1. Pressure washing
Uses high-pressure water to remove dirt, debris, moss, and algae
Only suitable for durable roof materials; it can easily damage more fragile roofs and strip away protective coatings, leading to leaks and the need for repairs
2. Soft washing
Uses low-pressure water combined with cleaning solutions to gently clean the roof
Better suited to shingle or tile roofs
3. Steam cleaning
Uses very low-pressure, heated water, with a low flow rate to gently lift the dirt away
Ideal for really delicate roofs or if there are stubborn lichen spots that need heat to remove them
4. Manual cleaning
This method involves removing the build-up of matter using specialist tools and brushes
Ideal for more delicate roofs that need a gentler touch
5. Chemical cleaning
Uses chemical solutions or bleach to quickly kill the moss, algae, and lichens
This method is often used in combination with soft washing for a thorough clean
Caution: Airborne bleach particles have the potential to damage nearby surfaces including plants, animals, and your property. For this reason, this option is not generally recommended for residential roof cleaning.
6. Biocide treatments
Uses a gentle and long-lasting biocide wash to kill any live spores once the dirt, debris, and moss have been removed from the roof
This method helps to prevent future regrowth for 5-10 years, keeping your roof cleaner for longer
Selecting the best roof cleaning method for your property
Your roof plays a fundamental role in keeping your home structurally safe and sound. You therefore don't want to risk doing anything that could actively damage it.
This is why many people veer away from jet-washing roofs - it can sometimes do more harm than good.
Asphalt shingle roofs: Soft washing or chemical cleaning is typically recommended
Tile roofs: Soft washing using low pressure is often used to protect the tiles
Metal roofs: Pressure washing can be used on metal roofs as they're more durable
Slate tile roofs: Soft washing or manual cleaning is best for these delicate roofs
Flat roofs: Regular manual cleaning to remove dirt and debris is best for this type of roof
Many roof cleaning companies will recommend a combination of methods to get the best results for your particular type of roof.
For example, they may deem it best to begin with hand scraping, before using a steam cleaner to rid your roof of dirt and lichen. They may then recommend a biocide treatment to inhibit the regrowth of moss and algae.
Find reputable roof cleaning specialists near you
To find trusted roof cleaning companies in your local area, look no further than the Checkatrade directory.
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How much does roof cleaning cost?
The cost of roof cleaning depends on several factors including the size of the roof, its pitch, and whether there are any accessibility issues.
As mentioned above, it will also depend on what type of treatment is recommended for your property. As a guide:
Pressure washing costs, on average, £8.50per m²
Steam cleaning normally sits around £11per m²
Hand removal and a biocide treatment costs around £11.50per m²
Soft washing typically costs in the region of £14per m²
For more detailed information, take a look at our roof cleaning cost guide.
Many roof cleaning companies will charge by the square metre. We always recommend getting at least three quotes so you know you're getting a fair and competitive price.
Quickly and easily get quotes for your job using our request a quote feature.
Additional costs
These costs do not include the cost of scaffolding or platforms, if required. As a guide, scaffolding typically costs around £22.50 per m² depending on the length and complexity of the scaffolding project. For more information, check out our guide to the cost of scaffolding.
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Roof cleaning summary
Not all roof cleaning methods are suitable for all types of roofs - do your research and consult a professional to be sure
DIY roof cleaning is not advisable - you can easily damage the integrity of your roof and working at height is dangerous
Roof cleaning costs are often calculated by the square metre and can typically range from £11per m²for steam cleaning up to £14per m² for soft washing
Hiring a roof cleaning specialist
For a job such as roof cleaning, it's best to call in the professionals.
They are properly trained to work safely at height, are licensed to use chemicals, and are experienced in recommending the most suitable treatment to clean your roof.
Finding approved roof cleaning specialists near you is easy with Checkatrade
All our tradespeople must pass up to 12 checks, so you know you're hiring a reputable professional
Every member must have public liability insurance to be listed in our directory
All member reviews are checked and vetted to ensure they're from real people about real jobs
We’re so confident in the quality of the trades on Checkatrade that if you book through us, we guarantee their work up to £1,000. Guaranteed for 12 months – Eligibility and T&Cs apply.
Ready to find a trusted and approved roof cleaning company in your area? Search your postcode to get started!
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