Softwash: Benefits for your Roof

In some regions of the country, such as Florida, roof cleaning has long been the norm since algae, mold, and lichens quickly cover roofs in warm and humid climates. In the past, pressure washing was the preferred cleaning method for these situations. However, it was well known that you could easily damage your roof during the cleaning process due to the high pressure. Which is why the softwash process was invented. 

Then, around 30 years ago, softwashing was introduced, a safe alternative to pressure washing that promised many benefits, from not needing to use pressure, to being able to avoid walking on your roof at all during the cleaning process. This revolutionary cleaning process has slowly permeated the country as both contractors and consumers have taken notice of the incredible results. But what are some of the benefits of soft washing your roof?

1. Soft Washing Increases Roof Lifespan

Moss and mildew-infested roofs can lose as much as 50% of their service life due to decomposition from microorganisms. Standard asphalt shingle tile roofs are composed primarily of tar and limestone. Microorganisms feed off of this limestone and literally consume it, causing your roof to slowly deteriorate. Routine softwash is made to eliminate every one of these malicious littleactors.

2. Curb Appeal Boost

Many home residents will think their roof is clean until they see the transformation of a neighbor’s home. Even a moderately infested roof will change the appearance of your home and not only impress your neighbors, but increase your home value.

3. Saves Money on Energy

This factor is often overlooked but can have a significant impact over the summer months. It’s well known that darker colors absorb heat and as a roof gets dirtier, it gets darker and therefore holds heat. This transfers into your attic and home space and causes your air conditioner to work harder. The result is a higher energy bill. This can be reduced by soft washing your roof and returning it to its original color.

4. Shingle Manufacture Warranty

Most shingle manufacturers require property owners to do adequate maintenance to their roofs to maintain the warranty. This often includes softwash of mold, algae, and bacteria growth that will prematurely degrade the shingles.

5. Softwash Promotes Health and Wellness

Many people suffer from allergies caused by different types of mold, bacteria, and mildew.  Although your roof may not seem like a culprit, a dirty roof can stimulate allergies inside and around your home.  A clean roof reduces the allergens for you and your family.

Soft washing will help you maintain and care for the investment you’ve made into your roof, along with the other benefits mentioned above. These benefits bring additional value that greatly outweighs the cost of service over time. If you are a property owner, consider evaluating your roof to see if soft washing is necessary, or call Skyline Softwash and we would be happy to provide a free proposal.