Roof washing is a highly specialized service that requires the right equipment, training, and attention to detail to be done safely and effectively. Here’s why it typically costs more than other exterior cleaning tasks:
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Roof Washing Really Do—And Why Does It Cost More Than You’d Expect?
Those dark streaks on your roof aren’t just dirt—they’re caused by a type of algae called Gloeocapsa Magma. This algae thrives in humid conditions and feeds on the limestone found in asphalt shingles, leading to unsightly stains and gradual deterioration of your roofing materials.
Left untreated, this buildup can trap moisture, promote mold growth, and shorten the lifespan of your roof. Professional soft washing not only removes the algae and restores your roof’s appearance—it also helps protect your investment and prevent costly repairs down the line.
As for cost, roof washing requires specialized low-pressure equipment, eco-friendly treatments, and experienced hands to clean thoroughly without causing damage. It’s a more delicate, detailed process than standard pressure washing—because your roof deserves the extra care.
Why Removing Gloeocapsa Magma Matters
Protect Your Roof’s Lifespan
This type of algae holds moisture against your shingles, creating the perfect conditions for deterioration. Over time, this can weaken roofing materials and shorten the life of your roof, leading to premature repairs or even full replacement.
Prevent Further Growth of Moss and Lichen
Once algae sets in, it creates the ideal environment for moss and lichen to follow. These growths can root into your shingles, loosening them and increasing the risk of water damage and leaks.
Restore Your Home’s Curb Appeal
Black streaks on your roof can make a home look aged and neglected. Removing them instantly improves your roof’s appearance, giving your property a cleaner, well-maintained look.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Algae darkens your roof, causing it to absorb more heat from the sun. This can raise indoor temperatures and your cooling costs. A clean roof reflects more sunlight, helping to keep your home cooler and more energy efficient.
Why Is Roof Washing More Expensive Than Other Services?
Roof washing is a highly specialized service that requires the right equipment, training, and attention to detail to be done safely and effectively. Here’s why it typically costs more than other exterior cleaning tasks:
Safety & Training Requirements
Roof cleaning involves working at height, which comes with serious safety risks. Technicians must be trained and equipped with the right fall protection and gear to prevent accidents while ensuring your property is protected during the process.
Specialized Equipment & Soft Washing Techniques
We never use high pressure on roofing materials. Instead, we apply a low-pressure soft wash system using a carefully balanced blend of cleaning solutions that kill algae and remove buildup without damaging shingles or roof coatings. This requires more expertise, time, and precision than standard pressure washing.
Proper Chemical Application
Effective roof cleaning depends on the correct chemical mix—typically sodium hypochlorite combined with surfactants. Applying it safely and evenly is key to killing algae like Gloeocapsa Magma while avoiding damage to your roof, gutters, or surrounding areas.
Protecting Your Landscaping
To prevent damage to plants and grass, we take proactive steps like pre-soaking and constant rinsing during the process. This extra care requires additional setup, monitoring, and sometimes an extra technician on-site to ensure everything stays safe and healthy.
Insurance & Liability Coverage
Because of the added risks involved, reputable companies carry comprehensive liability and workers' comp insurance, which ensures that both you and our crew are fully protected. This is part of delivering safe, professional service—and it adds to the overall cost.