What's Growing on My Roof? Soft Washing Solutions to Protect Your Home Skip to Main Content

What's Growing on My Roof? Soft Washing Solutions to Protect Your Home

Roof cleaning

What's growing on your roof? If you're not sure, you should have a professional inspect it. Organic growth like moss and algae can damage your roof and create a number of other problems. Soft washing is the best way to clean and protect your roof from these damages. In this article, we will discuss what organic growth can do to your roof and how soft washing can help!

What May Grown On Your Roof?

There are a number of things that can grow on your roof. From mold and mildew to moss and algae, these organic growths can cause damage to your roof in the short term, but if left unchecked for too long, then they will cause thousands of dollars worth of damages.

1. Gloeocapsa Magma

The dark color that appears as a black stain is caused by a specific type of algae called gloeocapsa magma. These are the black streaks on your roof that are often mistaken for dirt or mold.

2. Moss

The most common item that grows on roofs is moss. Moss thrives in moist environments and can grow very quickly, often spreading to other parts of the roof. Not only does moss look unsightly, but it also causes damage by eroding the roofing material.

3. Algae

Algae is another common problem, especially in warm climates. Like moss, algae is usually found in moist environments. Algae can be green or black, and it also causes damage by eroding the roofing material.

4. Lichens

Lichens are another common problem that grows on roofs. Like other plants, lichens need water to survive, so it's important to keep your gutters and downpipes clear of debris, so they don't clog up.

5. Leaf Litter

Leaf litter is a common problem, especially in autumn when trees are shedding their leaves. It's important that you keep the gutters clear of leaf litter and other debris because it can block your downpipes and cause the gutters to overflow, and create a more moist environment that leads to organic growth.

6. Bird Droppings

Bird droppings are another problem that can be found on roofs, especially on flat roofs or where there is a nearby tree. The bird droppings may contain seeds that will grow into plants and damage the roofing material over time. You should clean off any bird droppings as soon as possible to prevent damage from occurring.

7. Insects

Insects are another problem that can be found on roofs, especially on flat roofs or where there is a nearby tree. The insect droppings may contain seeds that will grow into plants and damage the roofing material over time. You should clean off any insect droppings as soon as possible to prevent damage from occurring.

Moss, lichens, algae, and other organic matter can also be found on roofs, especially in humid climates or where there is a nearby tree. It's important that you keep the gutters clear of leaf litter and other debris because it can block your downspouts. You should clean off any bird droppings as soon as possible to prevent damage from occurring.

How They Can Affect Your Roof

The main problem with these organic growths is that they can cause damage to your roof. The most common problems are:

1. Erodes the roofing material

The organic matter can erode the roofing material, especially if it's left unchecked for a long period of time.

2. Blocks the gutters and downpipes

If the organic growth is not removed, it will block your gutters and downpipes, which will cause extra moisture on and near your roof.

3. Creates a breeding ground for insects

The organic growth can create a breeding ground for insects, which can cause even more damage to your roof.

4. Weeds will grow in the cracks

If the organic matter is not removed, then weeds will grow in the cracks and seams of your roof.

5. Attracts pests

The organic growth will attract pests, which can cause even more damage to your roof.

6. Bird droppings may contain seeds

The bird droppings may contain seeds that will grow into plants and damage the roofing material over time. You should clean off any bird droppings as soon as possible to prevent damage from occurring.

How Soft Washing Can Help You Protect Your Roof

Soft washing is the best way to clean and protect your roof. It's an environmentally friendly alternative to pressure washing, which can cause damage to the roofing material due to the high pressure.

  • Removes the organic growth

The soft wash will remove all of the organic growth from your roof, including moss, algae, and lichens.

  • Cleans the surface of the roofing material

The soft wash will clean the surface of your roofing material and remove any built-up dirt or grime.

  • Kills any bacteria or fungi

The soft wash will kill any bacteria or fungi that may be present on your roof.

  • Prevents the organic growth from returning

The soft wash will prevent the organic growth from returning, which will keep your roof healthy and looking good for years to come.

  • Doesn't void the warranty on your roof

Soft washing is the best way to clean and protect your roof. Power washing can also void the warranty on your roof.

If you're looking for a way to protect your roof from the damage caused by organic growth, then soft washing is the best solution. Soft washing is an environmentally friendly alternative to pressure washing, which can cause damage to the roofing material.

What to Consider Before Hiring a Company to Soft Wash Your Roof

There are a few things you need to consider before hiring a company to soft wash your roof:

Check their credentials: Make sure the company is expierenced and insured.

Ask for references: Ask for references from past customers so you can see what kind of job they did.

Get a written estimate: Get a written estimate on the cost of soft washing your roof.

Ask about their guarantee: Ask if they offer any guarantees on their work and what happens if something goes wrong during or after the job.

Final Words

Roofs are often forgotten about when it comes to home maintenance, but they are an important part of the structure. Not only do they protect us from the elements, but they also play a role in our home’s appearance.

It is important to keep your roof in good condition by regularly cleaning it and protecting it from damage. A soft wash is an effective way to do this. It will remove any organic matter that has grown on your roof and prevent it from growing back again.

Looking For a Company to Soft Wash Your Roof?

If you're looking for a company to soft wash your roof, then Sparta Softwash is a perfect choice. We have been in business for over 20 years, and we service northern New Jersey and the Hudson Valley, New York. We use the latest equipment and techniques to get the job done right, and we guarantee our work. Contact us today for a free estimate!

FAQs

What is a soft wash?

A soft wash is an environmentally friendly alternative to pressure washing. It uses low-pressure water and special chemicals to clean the roof without damaging it.

How often should I have my roof cleaned?

It depends on your area, but most experts recommend cleaning your roof every three years or sooner if you see signs of moss or mold growth.

How do I know when it's time to clean my roof?

The best way to tell is by looking at the shingles. If they are dark and discolored, then that means they need cleaning. You can also look for algae growing on them, which will be a green or black color.

Can I do the job myself?

No, it is not recommended that you try to clean your roof yourself. It is a difficult and dangerous job and requires special equipment. Leave it to the professionals.

When was soft washing first used?

Soft washing has been around for over 20 years and is a common practice in the roofing industry.

Why is soft washing a better choice than pressure washing?

Pressure washing can cause damage to the roofing material over time. Soft washing is a more gentle approach that uses low-pressure water and special chemicals to clean the roof without damaging it.

When should I hire a professional to soft wash my roof?

You should hire a professional when you see signs of moss or mold growth or when the shingles are dark and discolored. It is also recommended that you have your roof cleaned every three years. Sparta Softwash is a company you can trust for quality roof cleaning services in the Hudson Valley, New York region.

What is roof moss, and how does it grow on my roof?

Roof moss is a green or black-colored organism that grows on roofs in wet climates. It thrives in damp environments such as rain gutters, around chimneys, and under eaves where there isn't much sunlight.

How do I get rid of roof moss once it has grown?

You can use a soft wash to remove the moss from your roof. It will kill the organism and prevent it from growing back again. This service should be performed every three years or sooner if you see signs of moss or mold growth. Sparta Softwash is a company that offers quality roof moss removal services in the Hudson Valley, New York region.

What Clients Are Saying About
Sparta Soft Wash

Latest Tips & Tricks
For Power Washing Your Home

  • The Difference Between Soft Washing and Power Washing

    When it comes to cleaning the exterior of your home, you may be wondering if power washing or soft washing is the better option. Both methods have their own unique benefits, but in general soft washing is the better choice for most homeowners. In this blog […]

  • What's Growing on My Roof? Soft Washing Solutions to Protect Your Home

    What's growing on your roof? If you're not sure, you should have a professional inspect it. Organic growth like moss and algae can damage your roof and create a number of other problems. Soft washing is the best way to clean and protect your roof from […]

Contact Us