How To Clean Roof Tiles In 3 Steps? (Easy Step-By-Step Guide)

A tiled roofing system is a bit tough to maintain. As tiles accumulate dust, algae, moss, dried leaves, twigs, bird droppings and other dirt over time.

The best and easy ways to clean roof tiles are by pressure washing, manually with a shovel and brush, or by chemicals.

In this article, I have explained each of these methods in detail, with their pros and cons. You will also find some useful tips to prevent tiled roofs from getting dirty.

3 Easy Ways To Clean Roof Tiles.

Here’s how you can clean your roof tiles.

Pressure Washing.

Pressure washing is one of the easiest and quickest methods of cleaning roof tiles. Pressure washers are designed to produce high-pressure water jets that will rip dirt off any surface including your roof tiles.

When to use this method: It’s important to know when your roof tiles need a pressure wash and when they don’t. If you see ordinary dirt, debris, dried leaves, twigs and dried animal droppings mucking up your roof. There is no need to use a pressure washer. As these things can be cleared by other simpler methods.

However, if your roof is hijacked by algae, moss, mold and other persistent vegetation. Which can’t be easily swept away. Your roof tiles may require a pressure wash.

How to use this method: Pressure washers are easy to use. All you have to do is fill the tank with the cleaning solution. Attach a 35-degree nozzle to the wand. Start from the top left corner of the roof and go all the way to the bottom and repeat the process.

Using a 35-degree nozzle is important as it evenly distributes the jet of water over a large area.

Pros:

• Prevents infestations of algae, moss, etc.
• Increases the overall aesthetic appeal of your home.
• Helps identify leaks or other problems in your roofing system.
• You can do it yourself.

Cons:

• Not using the correct nozzle may damage your roof tiles. You may end up scraping the surface sediments of the roofing tiles, reducing their lifespan.
• You need some experience to pressure washing your roof.
• Being up on the roof can be dangerous.

Shovel and Brush.

The simplest way to clean your roof tiles is by using a shovel and a brush or kitchen broom. This technique requires a great amount of manual labour. So be prepared to sweat on your roof for hours.

When to use this method: This method works best if your roof has a lot of dried leaves, bird and animal residue, twigs and easily removable debris.

Also, use this technique in sunny weather, as the dirt won’t stick to the roof tiles due to moisture.

How to use this method: Use the shovel to scrape off all the dirt from the roof. And the brush or broom to sweep it off the roof.

Use a hard-bristled brush for Terracotta and Concrete roof tiles. Whereas, use a soft-bristled brush for Bituminous sheath roofs or a plastic conservatory roof.

Pros:

• Beginner-friendly method.
• No special equipment is needed.

Cons:

• You may damage the roof tiles with the shovel.

Chemicals.

In this method, various chemical solutions are used clean the roof tiles. The most common chemicals used are Sodium Hydroxide, chlorine, Sodium Percarbonate and Sodium Hypochlorite.

When to use this method: Sometimes a shovel and a broom or a pressure wash are not enough to rid the roof tiles of the collected dirt and infestations. In such circumstances, a chemical wash is needed

How to use this method: Mix the chemical of your choice with water for a 1:7 dilution ratio. Fill it in a pump spray.

Spray some water on your roof first, to cool it down. This will also prevent the chemical cleaning solution from drying off too quickly.

Now spray the cleaning solution from bottom to top in a row. Keep spraying until you see runoffs. Do not leave any dry patches.

Some solutions are left overnight while others are rinsed in 20 to 30 minutes. Depending upon your cleaning solution take the next steps.

Pros.

• This method thoroughly cleans the roof.
• It also prevents future infestations.

Cons.

• It may kill not only the infestations on your roof but also the flora nearby. So you have to be very careful while using chemical cleaners for your roof.
• It’s not a single person’s job.
• The chemicals are harmful to our skin.
• You need all the equipment.

Tips To Keep Your Tiled Roof Clean.

A well-maintained and clean roof has 20% more chances of lasting longer than its predicted lifespan. Therefore, below are some easy tips to clean and maintain your roof.

Clean Your Roof Regularly.

Clean your tiles at least once every two months. A clean roof not only looks beautiful but also stays in good shape for longer. You can easily spot damaged or leaks on a clean roof.

Trim Any Overhanging Branches.

Your roof is constantly under the intervention of falling leaves, debris, and water. When the trees start branching out over your roof, the overhanging branches may severely damage your roof.

This can be prevented by trimming the branches or strategically spacing the tree and the house.

Conduct Regular Roof Maintenance.

Different seasons and constantly changing weather do take a toll on the roofing system. Roofing maintenance takes care of all the minor damages to the roof. And also helps to predict any major repairs that may occur in the near future.

Keep The Gutters, Vents And The Chimneys Clean. 

Vents, gutters, and chimneys are essential components of the roofing system.  Maintaining them will add to the overall health of the roof.

Do Not Ignore Roofing Issues.

Be it a broken tile, leaking roof, condensation in the attic or improper installation of a roofing component. Do the due repairs and prevent any further damage.

Many a time an ignoring leak or broken shingle may lead to a snowball effect of roofing problems.

Ask For Professional Help Whenever Necessary, Avoid DIY Solutions.

People often try DIY solutions to fix roofing problems. DIY techniques are seldom permanent and accurate. You end up damaging the roof more than repairing it.

Professionals are more qualified to deal with specific roofing problems. So, it’s best to contact a roofing contractor whenever necessary.

FAQs?

How often should you clean your tiled roof?

It’s best to get your roof cleaned by professionals once every year. However, if your roof is new, you may extend the period between two consecutive roof cleanings. For people living in areas with a frequent infestation of algae, moss, lichen and other vegetation. Clean your roof every 6 months.

Does cleaning your roof with chemicals damage it?

No, it doesn’t. However, chemicals need to be properly diluted before spraying and left on the roof for a limited amount of time. To remove these chemicals, the roof must be rinsed with a high flow of water (not high pressure). So that there won’t be any residue left, which may decompose your roof.

How much does it cost to have your roof cleaned?

Usually, the price ranges from $0.15 to $0.68 per square foot. Many factors are considered before quoting a price. Factors like tile type, size of the roof, the quantity of debris present on the roof, etc.

Can I use salt to clean my roof?

No! Do not use salt to clean your roof tiles. Sodium Chloride or rock salt is highly corrosive. It will destroy your roofing system. It will especially harm the shingles, asphalt stone and concrete. A small amount of salt can contaminate the nearby soil. Instead, try using diluted sodium hypochlorite.

What is better soft roof wash or hard roof wash for tiled roofs?

Soft roof washing is easy. This process doesn’t require pressure whatsoever. Handheld tools are used to remove moss, algae, and other debris. This process is best if you plan on cleaning the roof by yourself. However, hard roof wash is quick and needs equipment.

Can I use bleach to clean the tiled roof?

Yes, you can. To clean the roof use a 1:1 ratio of bleach and water. Rinse away the bleach solution with water after being allowed to sit for 20 minutes. If kept longer, it will damage the roof.

Conclusion.

I hope this article offered a detailed idea on how to clean your roof tiles. Make sure to put your safety before everything while cleaning your roof tiles. And if you wish to hire professional help to take care of your roof, contact us anytime!

Leak Stop is a one-stop destination to meet your roofing-related requirements. We offer roof repair, replacement, maintenance and inspection services all over GVRD (Greater Vancouver Regional District).

We offer a free inspection to first-time clients. Connect with us TODAY at 1 866 777 0084 for immediate assistance!