Pros and Cons Of Pressure Washin
In a temperate, moist climate, moss and lichens can quickly overtake an otherwise pristine roof, making it look old and weathered before its time. Roofs in windy areas become dusty and dull-looking, despite their young age and durable nature. The miraculous effects of pressure washing such roofs are a strong enticement to homeowners who want to keep their homes looking good. In just an afternoon, pressure washing can turn a soiled or overgrown roof into one that looks brand new.
However, pressure washing is not without its negative effects. Depending on the type of roofing material in question, applying direct, super-charged jets of water with a pressurized machine is not always a wise option. When in doubt, contact a reputable Cherry Hill roofing firm to find out whether they recommend pressure washing your specific type of roof.
On composition shingles, which are coated with tiny ceramic granules for durability, pressure washing can do more harm than good. The ceramic coating not only gives composition roofing its color, but it also protects the asphalt materials beneath from ultraviolet radiation. Pressure washing can dislodge the ceramic granules, leaving the shingles vulnerable to the ravages of weather. While experienced pressure washing professionals may be able to clean a composition roof without ruining the shingles, homeowners should carefully consider less damaging alternatives.
In the case of cement or clay tile roofing, homeowners should weigh the danger of breakage due to pressure washing with the possible damage that moss and lichens can bring to bear on the roofing materials. Both types of growth can trap moisture between the tiles and the fungi, leading to premature deterioration. However, spraying these relatively fragile materials with strong streams of water can cause cracks and breakage, necessitating repairs. Homeowners with tile roofs are better off using chemical products that remove unwanted growth more gently.
For homeowners with cedar shake roofing, pressure washing is often a necessary step in preserving the materials. Cedar is a porous material that absorbs soil and hosts invasive vegetation. In order to apply preservative on a regular basis, the surface of the shakes must be clean. Often, pressure washing is the most effective means of cleansing the roofing so that the preservative is most effective. Hiring a knowledgeable technician with experience pressure washing cedar shakes helps homeowners avoid damage to their roofing shingles.
Metal roofing may seem impervious to damage from pressure washing, and in general, this is the case. However, the equipment operator must take care to avoid damaging seals and seams in the roofing structure. Like other types of materials, metal roofing is vulnerable to vegetative growth and soil accumulation. Pressure washing by an experienced service provider can solve these problems and preserve the longevity of the roof.
Homeowners who are getting their residences ready for the real estate market may elect to hire a pressure washer to make their roofs look like new. However, they should be aware of the potential damage that this type of cleaning can cause to specific types of roofing materials.The roofing experts at Fortified Roofing of Cherry Hill NJ can assist you with any questions regarding skylights or gutters.
Term of the day, courtesy of Fortified Roofing, Cherry Hill NJ:
Composition roofing
Composition shingles are a durable, relatively inexpensive roofing option that offers homeowners plenty of color choices and designs. Composed of a fiberglass scrim, coatings of asphalt and a ceramic granule topcoat, composition shingles are available in three-tab, laminated and premium profiles.
Cherry Hill roofing contractor Fortified Roofing answers a commonly asked question:
Should I pressure wash my roof if I am getting ready to sell?
The answer depends on your time frame for selling, the type of roofing on your home and the condition of the materials. Homeowners who want to sell immediately may opt for the quick fix and have their roofs pressure washed. However, those with composition roofing may opt for a less damaging option, especially if they expect to be staying in the home for more than just a few months.
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 8 customer reviews.
Oh My! People say such nice things!
