Your roof is perhaps the most important element of your property, and keeping it clean is essential for maintaining both its appearance and structural integrity.
Over time, roofs can accumulate dirt, moss, algae and other types of debris that can cause significant damage if it is left untreated. And as well as the functional benefits, cleaning a roof also enhances its appearance and keeps everything looking as pleasant as possible.
The cost of roof cleaning is likely to be a question you want an answer to do before hiring professionals to take on the task. In this article, we’ll break down roof cleaning cost and explain everything you need to know before getting the job done. This includes the various methods and factors that may impact the overall price of the work.
Read on to find out more…
Signs You Need To Clean A Roof?
Not only does a clean roof look great, but it also protects your home from potential damage. If you’re wondering when you need to arrange for your home’s roof to be cleaned, here are some common signs to look out for:
- Visible signs of moss or algae: If you can physically see green or black patches on your roof, it is likely a sign that you have a moss or algae problem. These organisms can damage your roof, or the material it is made from, if neglected over time.
- Discoloured or streaked roof tiles: Algae on the roof can also cause unsightly dark streaks or stains to appear on a roof. Not only does this diminish its appearance, but it can also trap moisture which may lead to long-term damage.
- Clogged gutters: A roof that needs cleaning can also lead to other problems which may serve as indicators that cleaning is needed. For example, if your gutters have become filled with leaves, moss or other types of debris, it’s a sure sign that roof cleaning is in order.
- Leaks or water damage: If you see stains on the ceiling of your upstairs rooms, it means water may be entering your home. This can occur if there is an excess of debris or moss on a roof that is trapping moisture and causing a leak. This could be a sign that roof cleaning is needed.
- Loss of granules on asphalt shingles: Moss and algae can also strip protective granules from your shingles, reducing their lifespan. If you see this has occurred, you should consider cleaning the roof.
If you spot any of the signs we’ve outlined above, it’s worth consulting a professional to seek advice on whether roof cleaning is required.
How Often Should A Roof Be Cleaned?
How often a roof should be cleaned depends on various factors, such as the climate, type of material your roof is made from and the surrounding environment.
In general, you can use the following guidelines:
- Every year: Most properties should have their roof cleaned on at least an annual basis. This is especially the case in climates which see frequent rainfall, and as we’re no strangers to wet days here in the UK, most people in the country should consider a yearly clean to keep their roofs in good condition.
- Every three years: In drier climates or areas with less vegetation, roofs might be able to go three years, or even longer, between cleans. However, this is more likely to be the case for warmer, drier countries rather than here in the UK.
- After storm damage: It’s not uncommon for the UK to suffer from storms that, once or twice a year, wreak havoc. If a storm has caused branches, leaves or other debris to accumulate on your roof it’s a good idea to schedule a cleaning service.
Regular roof cleaning helps maintain the structural integrity of a roof, and helps to extend its lifespan while also saving you money on costly repairs or replacements in the long run.
How Much Does It Cost To Clean A Roof?
The cost of roof cleaning depends on factors like the size of the roof, the cleaning method used and the level of dirt or moss that has built up on the roof. On average, you can expect to pay around £18 per square metre for standard roof cleaning services in the UK. For example, for a typical UK home with a roof size of 100 square metres, this would amount to approximately £1,800.
A popular method for cleaning roofs is soft washing, which uses low-pressure water with mixed with a cleaning solution to gently remove all dirt, moss and algae. This method is less abrasive than normal power washing and is suitable for delicate roofing materials like tiles or shingles. After the cleaning solution has been applied, it is then rinsed off with low-pressure water so the roof avoids any damage. This method is also considered to be environmentally friendly and is therefore a preferred choice for many homeowners.
The cost of soft washing a roof typically ranges from £12 to £16 per square metre.
If scaffolding hire is needed, then this can increase the cost.
How Much Does It Cost To Clean Moss Off A Roof?
While standard roof cleaning will remove moss from a roof, you can opt for a more focused service that doesn’t clean the entire surface but instead will target the organism itself.
The cost to remove moss is usually around £16 per square metre but this depends on the extent of the infestation as well as the method chosen.
There are three main types of moss removal which are:
- Hand scraping: The cheapest fix, this process is cost-effective but will see the moss return quicker so will need to be repeated more regularly.
- Pressure washing: Less labour intensive than cleaning moss by hand, your roof will look cleaner but it can cause tile damage if you’re not careful. If combined with a chemical cleaner like a biocide treatment, it should prevent the moss from returning.
- Roof steam cleaning: This is the most environmentally friendly option as no chemicals are used. Moss and weed will be killed and your roof will look as good as new.
Should I Have Roof Cleaning Or Moss Cleaning?
Whether you go for general roof cleaning or opt for a specific moss removal service will depend on the roof’s condition and what you’re looking to achieve.
Here’s a quick summary to help you decide what’s best for you:
- Choose roof cleaning: If your roof has a general buildup of dirt, algae or stains but isn’t overrun with moss, standard roof cleaning such as soft washing should be a sufficient solution.
- Choose moss cleaning: If moss has become the primary issue, especially if you suspect it has become embedded in the tiles, then specialised moss cleaning will likely be the better option.
In some cases, a combination of both services might be required to fully restore a roof.
Factors That Impact Roof Cleaning Cost
There are several factors that can influence the cost of cleaning your roof. Understanding these factors can help you estimate the cost more accurately and plan your budget.
Some of the things to consider include:
Roof Size
The larger your roof, the higher the cost of cleaning is likely to be. Pricing is almost always calculated per square metre as a larger roof requires more time, labour and cleaning materials.
Roof Pitch or Accessibility
Steep or difficult-to-access roofs are more challenging to clean than standard roof types, and therefore may require the hire of additional safety equipment to complete the job. This can increase the cost.
Type of Roofing Material
Different roofing materials require different cleaning techniques. For example, delicate materials such as slate or clay might need to be treated more gently. They might need soft washing or other methods which might influence the price.
The Extent of Dirt or Moss Buildup
If your roof is heavily soiled or extremely dirty as a result of extensive moss growth, then it’ll usually take longer to clean and require more effort. In these instances, it can result in higher costs.
Cleaning Method
As mentioned earlier in this blog, soft washing is typically less expensive than other cleaning methods, so the type of cleaning that is required for your specific roof will dictate the price you pay.
Location
Roof cleaning costs can vary depending on where you live. For example, urban areas or regions are likely to have higher prices compared to more rural places.
Additional Services
If you need any additional services, such as gutter cleaning, roof repairs or applying protective coatings, these can increase the overall cost.
Final Remarks
Regular roof cleaning is a crucial part of your home’s maintenance, helping to extend the lifespan of your roof and preventing costly repairs. While the cost of cleaning can vary depending on the factors we’ve discussed, it’s usually a worthwhile investment in order to protect your property.
Remember to consider the size of your roof and the method of cleaning you’ll need when budgeting for the cost of roof cleaning.
