Keeping your roof clean is an essential part of its maintenance, helping to extend its lifespan and improve your property’s appearance. While jet washing is a popular method for cleaning outdoor surfaces, it’s important to consider everything from personal safety to protecting fragile materials like roof tiles.
Jet washing offers an effective roof cleaning method, but it must be approached with a professional eye to avoid potential damage. Here are our top tips for success.
Is it safe to jet wash roof tiles?
Jet washing roof tiles can be great for removing moss, bird droppings and dirt, but before using a pressure washer on your roof, the condition of the tiles should be assessed. Older or degraded tiles may be more susceptible to damage from high-pressure water, which stresses the importance of using a professional jet washing company.
They’ll make sure the right techniques are used to wash your roof, using a suitable water pressure to remove debris without causing tile damage. For example, they may choose soft washing for a gentler clean and will avoid spraying water directly beneath the tiles, which can compromise the roof’s structural integrity.
What’s the best way to clean roof tiles?
Soft washing is a gentle alternative to high-pressure methods. The low pressures are combined with high temperatures and sometimes specialist cleaning solutions to remove grime and moss. This method won’t damage roof tiles and is safer for fragile roofs.
Some manual cleaning methods may be involved where dirt and algae are extensive, using brushes or scrapers first to remove some of the debris.
Can you pressure wash moss off roof tiles?
Pressure washing can effectively remove moss from a roof, but it should be done with care to prevent damage to the tiles. Some companies may even discuss applying a moss-killing treatment first to help loosen the moss and make it easier to remove.
Low pressures are best for moss removal from tiles, and the right angling of the nozzle is key
to avoid dislodging or damaging the slates. Chemical solutions may also be added post-wash to prevent recurring algae growth.
Find out more in our blog on removing moss during roof cleaning.
Can jet washing damage your roof tiles?
Jet washing can potentially damage roof tiles if not done correctly, so you must ask an experienced company to complete the task. High-pressure water can dislodge tiles, break certain materials, force water underneath or strip away protective coatings.
To minimise the risks, your jet wash service will include a site survey to assess your roof tiles, the debris to remove and any safety precautions needed. A roof tile cleaning plan will then be put in place to outline the techniques required after considering the condition of your roof tiles.
Do you need roof tile cleaning services? Contact Jet Wash Surrey
Jet Wash Surrey offers expert roof cleaning solutions, including soft washing and DOFF cleaning services. We operate across South West London and Surrey, coming out to Coulsdon, East Molesey and beyond.
For a free pressure washing quote, call now on 020 8138 0184.
