Roof maintenance is one of those tasks that often gets put off by property owners because in many cases it’s achievable to do it yourself, but it’s a hassle to actually get around to doing it! Cleaning roof tiles is a very effective way to boost your property’s overall appearance, but it also provides an opportunity to have a closer look at your roof and identify any damage that needs attention. While some people may opt to DIY their roof cleaning, there are good reasons to call in a professional. We’ve answered some of the common questions we get asked here in the Illawarra area.
How often should I clean my roof tiles in the Illawarra?
How often your roof tiles need cleaning depends on a few factors such as your location, aspect, and the weather. Lichen growth on roof tiles is more common in more humid and damp climates, a roof that receives a lot of fallout from trees will get dirty quickly and coastal properties may accumulate a build-up of salt from sea spray. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to clean your roof every 5 years or more. Not only will this keep your property looking well-kept, but regular roof maintenance can extend the life of your roof too.
What are the potential consequences of not cleaning my roof tiles regularly?
Over time, debris can accumulate on your roof tiles. This can allow moisture to become trapped, which provides a breeding ground for algae, moss, and mould. Moss and algae can thrive on tiled roofs, especially in humid and damp conditions. The growth of such organic matter can cause tiles to lift and dislodge, creating cracks. Organic matter that is left unchecked can break down roofing materials over time, making them more susceptible to damage.
Built-up debris can cause havoc with guttering and downpipes. Clogged gutter systems prevent water from running off your roof properly, and pooled water can end up entering your roof space, rather than draining away from it. Roof leaks can result in significant water damage to your property and many home insurance policies do not cover damage that results from rain entering the roof. Water entering your home can lead to mould growth, which poses a serious health risk, especially for those with respiratory conditions.
Compromised roof tiles that can be easily replaced are often identified during the roof cleaning process. A simple cracked tile that goes unnoticed, however, can lead to expensive repairs later on. Plus, accumulated dirt, moss, lichen, and stains on your roof can really affect the curb appeal of your property – a factor to consider if you’re thinking of selling your home or getting a bank valuation.
Are there DIY methods for cleaning roof tiles or should I hire a professional?
Cleaning roof tiles is a job that can be carried out yourself, but there are some serious considerations you need to take into account. First and foremost is safety, and we can’t overstate how important this is. Did you know that around 25% of construction site deaths are due to falling from heights? This is on construction sites, where workers are presumably physically able, trained, and wearing the right footwear. When it comes to property owners working on their own roofs, there is often little or no safety equipment and limited knowledge of safe working practices. A fall from the roof is pretty unforgiving, and that’s why we always suggest hiring a reputable roofing contractor to carry out your roof cleaning and maintenance.
If you do feel competent in working on your roof, the best way to clean roof tiles is by applying a specialised cleaning product and using a pressure washer to remove dirt and organic growth.
It’s important to inspect the roof thoroughly before applying a pressure washer. Common issues we see include broken tiles, damaged ridge capping, flashing that needs replacing, and loose fixtures. A pressure washer can cause havoc on a compromised roof. Do your research first on best practices to apply high-pressure water to your roof tiles, as, if done incorrectly, water can be forced into the roof space. You should also be clear on what areas of the roof you should walk on, to minimise the chance of causing breakages.
How do I prevent lichen growth on roof tiles in Wollongong and Shellharbour areas?
We recommend applying a fresh coat of sealant or paint to roof tiles after they’ve been properly cleaned. Not only does this make your roof look fantastic, but it helps your tiles stay impermeable to the elements and can make it harder for new organic growth to take hold. Where a property has become particularly susceptible to moss, lichen, or algae build-up, we can apply a fungicide to help keep that unwanted growth at bay. If you want to do this yourself, it’s important to consider where contaminated runoff will end up and create a temporary diversion if necessary to protect your garden or rainwater tank.
What's the best time of year to clean roof tiles in the Illawarra for optimal results?
Spring or early Summer can be an ideal time to carry out roof maintenance, including cleaning your roof tiles. The weather is usually becoming dry and warmer, which helps the roof dry out completely after a deep clean. Cleaning your roof during this period can be good for removing debris that fell from deciduous trees over the cooler months, and since clearing your gutters is part of smart bushfire season preparation, it makes sense to give your whole roof a once over. Avoid working on roofs in windy weather. Not only can it make working at heights less safe, it also poses a risk of cleaning agents being spread about to unwanted areas.
We recommended regular roof maintenance, including cleaning, inspections, and addressing any issues promptly. If you’re unsure about how to clean your roof tiles, consider hiring a local roofing service. Our Illawarra roofing professionals have over 20 years of experience in roof cleaning, repairs, and maintenance.
