CLEANING AN ASPHALT SHINGLE ROOF: INSTRUCTIONS!

Would you like to clean your shingle roof so that it remains in perfect condition for as long as possible? In this article, our experts at Couvreurs de l'Est, in Montreal, explain how to maintain your roof to prevent the formation of moss, in particular, a problem that could cause serious damage (raised shingles, water infiltration, etc.). ) and require expensive repairs. Follow the guide!

Step 1: ensure your safety

Roof maintenance has its share of risks. Fortunately, you can take various security measures to prevent them, including the following:

• Get geared up: A safety harness is essential for working at height — if you don't have one, rent one. Also wear non-slip shoes and clothes that cover your skin as much as possible, and wear rubber gloves and protective glasses, because you will have to handle dangerous products to carry out an impeccable cleaning.

• Work in pairs: while you climb (duly strapped!) on the roof, someone should remain on the ground in order to supervise the operation and be able to come to your aid quickly in case difficulties.

Step 2: wash the roof

Moss and algae stains in particular can be stubborn, so chemicals are needed to remove them. However, do not choose these at random: get a product specially designed for the roof. This way, you will be sure not to use a cleaner that is too abrasive, which could affect the longevity of the shingles.Then mix it with a gallon of water and a quart of bleach, then spread the solution over the entire roof. To do this, simply use a pump garden sprayer, for example.

Step 3: rinse thoroughly

After spraying the cleaning solution, wait about fifteen minutes, then proceed to rinsing. Obviously proceed from top to bottom, taking care to water not only the roof, but also any other surface that the chemicals could have “splashed”. Consider in particular the exterior cladding and the plants near the house.

Please note: rinsing must be carried out using a garden hose. Indeed, if you use a pressure device, the granules that protect the shingles may come loose.

Finally, you can gently brush the shingles (avoid stiff bristle brushes) if necessary.

Need help repairing and maintaining your roof ? Contact Couvreurs de l’Est in Montreal: we will be happy to assess the situation and offer you tailor-made solutions!