Many homeowners may think that cleaning the roof isn’t really necessary. This may be because, unlike other areas of their home, the roof isn’t really something you see up close that often. So, a dirty roof wouldn’t be that bothersome.
However, a dirty roof isn’t just an aesthetic concern. Routinely cleaning your roof is also an essential part of roof maintenance. It can help you avoid expensive repairs and keep your roof in good condition for longer.
Avoid Shingle Damage
Without regular maintenance, falling debris, ice dams, and algae could collect on your roof and lead to shingle damage. And when the shingles get damaged or when some go missing, it could lead to more severe problems. These include water damage, mold growth, and fungal growth. Shingle damage can also result in decreased energy efficiency, which in turn increases the power bills.
Prevent Roof Algae and Moss
Because your roof protects you from the rain and snow, it is not surprising that your roof can collect moisture over time. And moist environments can promote the growth of algae and moss on your roof. When the algae and moss are not cleaned off the roof, they can damage the gutter and shingles, which may lead you to replace your roof sooner than you thought.
Aside from that, algae and moss can also harbor mold spores. When mold starts to grow on your roof, it can have various adverse effects on your health. So, it’s essential to wash off the roof algae and moss to reduce potential damages.
Prevent Wood Rot
With shingle damage and roof algae, there can be a higher chance of water seeping into your roof. This can cause leaks in your home and result in significant water damage. When the water gets into the wood, it can also lead to severe wood rotting. Since rotting wood is more fragile, you will have to repair or replace it as soon as possible. This, of course, can be pretty costly.
To prevent this sequence of unfortunate events, it’s best to stay proactive and clean your roof. With consistent roof cleanings, you can avoid water damage and wood rot, lengthening the life span of your roof.
Prevent Ice Dam Formation
Rain isn’t the only thing you should be worried about. Ice dams can form on your roof in the winter, especially if you don’t clear the snow off your roof after a snowfall or a snowstorm. These ice ridges form on your roof’s edge, creating a giant wall of ice. The ice dams can block water from draining off the roof, resulting in severe damages, such as leaks, dangerous ice formations, gutter damage, and shingle damage.
To prevent the formation of these ice dams, it’s best to clear any snow and debris off your roof during the winter months. However, since this can be pretty dangerous, it may be best to hire a roofing company to do the cleaning.
Final Thoughts
A dirty roof isn’t just an aesthetic concern. When moisture, debris, snow, and dirt aren’t cleaned off the roof, they can lead to severe damages. So, it’s best to stay proactive and routinely clean your roof to help prolong its lifespan and avoid costly repairs.
For your roofing needs, you can count on Pioneer Roofing Company to do the job right. We are a commercial roofer in San Diego that has quickly become one of the most well-respected and trusted roofing companies in the area. Get a free quote today!