Today, fortunately, there are some better methods for roof maintenance.  But first, let’s quickly review the older method for cleaning and treating roofs in the Portland Metro Area.

Going back 25 or 30 years, power washing started gaining much popularity as a method for cleaning roofs.  It was found that moss, lichen, and algae would quickly come off of the roof with the spray from a power washer. Once the operator learned how not to cause immediate damage to the roof, it proved to be an efficient way to handle the job. Then, as portable power washers started coming down in price and appearing at the big “box” stores at more affordable prices, do it yourselfers where able to join in the fun.

Professionals, however, realized early on that even without causing immediate damage to a roof, the high pressure caused damage to all roof types (cedar, composition, tile) that reduced the roof’s life. Granule loss and shingle tearing are most common for composition roofs, tile roofs will lose some of their protective glaze and crack, and cedar shake roofs actually have a layer of the wood completely removed by power washing. The shakes actually become thinner with every cleaning in addition to being stressed.

A partial solution to this was to use special machines that had lower pressure and higher water volume. While this is an improvement, however, the underlying negatives are still present. The principle of being rough on the roof in order to perform necessary maintenance is just flawed.

Regarding treating roofs, it is common to use treatments that were derivatives of metallic solutions, such as zinc and copper. While effective at preventing moss or preserving wood, they often are not long lasting as new treatments and can have some environmental repercussions.

Sometimes, a new way of performing a job comes along and it involves an entirely new process. Other times, what seems like a new approach might actually be a rediscovery of an older method. And then there are the other times, when it may be a little of both.

One method involves employing an old fashioned solution; hand brushing moss off of the roof. The end result is a much more gentle, albeit slower moss removal method. It isn’t flashy or high powered, but it is often what is best for the roof. Coupled with the availability of lightweight backpack blowers or compressed air to further aid the removal and cleaning, roofs are more able to realize the longer life expectancy they were designed to obtain.

Treatments also have advanced. The use of sodium silicate base products has been revolutionary. Not only do they offer greater longevity than the metal-based solutions, they are much greener. They are much more friendly to the surrounding environment and occupants. Combining these old and new methods now allows for maximize the life of your roof like never before.

If however, your roof was treated poorly over it’s life, we will gladly give you an assessment as to whether it still has reasonable life left or whether it is time to consider a new roof.

Tags: composition, new roof, portland oregon, preventative maintenance, roof cleaning, roof contractor, roof maintenance, roof replacement, roof replacment, roofer, roofing