Get matched with top roof cleaners in Ithaca, NY

Even though you don’t look at your roof often, there are some telltale signs that you should have your roof professionally cleaned. It’s best to hire a professional roof cleaner as soon as you notice signs of wear and tear to preserve the essential feature’s longevity. Some indicators to look out for include:

• Leaf buildup in gutters

• Dirt and grime buildup

• Moss or black algae growth

• Dirt buildup under shingles

• Shifting roof shingles

• Plant growth

The cost of roof cleaning is $455 for the average homeowner. However, this cost can range from $150 to $1,000, depending on the size, pitch, and material of the roof, as well as the cleaning method used.  

Since roof cleaning costs between $0.20 and $0.60 per square foot, it’s fair to say that the larger your roof, the more you pay for cleaning services. Additionally, if you have a steep roof, you can expect to pay an additional $0.15 per square foot due to the complex nature of the job and additional safety equipment needed.

A professional roof cleaning lasts about a year on average, so it’s best to do it annually. This schedule helps catch any roof problems before they become extensive and helps prevent mold, moss, and algae from forming. If you live near the coast, annual roof cleaning will help prevent salt buildup on your roof. You can add professional roof cleaning to your yearly home maintenance checklist to ensure you never miss a year.

On average, cleaning a roof will take between two to five hours. This timeline depends on the size and slope of your roof and the severity of any stains. Cleaning roof stains can take additional time, especially if there are signs of moss or algae.

In addition, the age of your roof makes an enormous difference in the time it takes to clean it, as older roofs need more gentle care. If you have significant landscaping in your yard by your house, your professional roof cleaner will need additional time to protect it from cleaning chemicals.

It is not advisable to DIY a roof cleaning job. Cleaning your roof yourself could lead to hazardous falls, scrapes, and even burns, making this a dangerous project. Additionally, using the wrong cleaning solution or cleaning method on your roof could risk damaging it. While some markets offer a DIY roof cleaning kit, these products often speed up the deterioration of your roof.

To ensure that you and your roof are protected, it’s best to leave roof cleaning to a professional with the right chemicals, tools, and equipment to complete the job safely.