How to Clean Asphalt Shingles with Easy Methods

Cleaning asphalt shingles can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. In fact, with the right methods, you can have your roof looking like new in no time.

First, it's essential to understand that asphalt shingles are made from a mixture of asphalt, fiberglass, and minerals, which makes them prone to staining. To clean them effectively, you'll need to use a solution that can break down these stains.

A mixture of 1 cup of bleach and 1 gallon of water is a great starting point for cleaning asphalt shingles. This solution is effective at removing dirt, grime, and mildew from the surface of the shingles.

Cleaning your asphalt shingles is essential to keeping your home in top condition. A well-maintained roof protects your property and enhances its curb appeal, making it more appealing to potential buyers.

Mold, lichen, and moss growth on your roof can cause safety risks for home residents, including respiratory illnesses and other health risks. Routine cleaning of your shingles will help prevent this risk while ensuring your family stays safe and healthy.

Regularly cleaning your asphalt shingles can significantly prolong their lifespan and prevent wear and tear that could cause damage.

Cleaning your roof regularly can prevent health risks associated with mold and lichen growth. Routine cleaning of your shingles will help prevent this risk.

Mold and lichen growth can cause respiratory illnesses and other health risks. Organic growths like mold have been linked to these health issues.

A professional can inspect the roof for additional safety risks or damaged shingles. This inspection can help identify potential problems before they become major issues.

Moss absorbs moisture from the air, creating an unsafe environment inside and outside the house. This can lead to further problems and damage to your home.

Cleaning your roof shingles is crucial, as it can significantly prolong their lifespan and prevent wear and tear that could cause damage.

Regularly cleaning your asphalt shingles can make them last longer, whereas neglecting this task can lead to brittleness and cracking.

Dirt, debris, moss, and algae accumulation on asphalt shingles can deteriorate or damage your roofing material, and these materials can also block your gutters and downspouts.

Regular cleaning helps maintain structural integrity by avoiding costly repairs.

A clean roof not only protects your property but also enhances its curb appeal, making it more appealing to potential buyers.

By regularly cleaning your roof, you can prevent the formation of ice dams in the winter, which can cause serious damage.

Dark spots on your roof can be caused by algae that thrive in damp environments and feed off the filler in asphalt shingles.

These spots are especially common in areas shaded by the sun, such as north and west-facing areas of your roof.

Algae can survive for years, and in fact, most newer shingles come with an algicide coating that lasts about ten years, but eventually wears off.

After ten years, you may notice black or discolored streaks running down your roof, which is a sign that the algicide coating has worn off.

The good news is that algae itself doesn't damage your shingles, but it can make your roof look unsightly.

Use a mixture of vinegar and water to clean your shingle roof, as it's inexpensive, easy to find, and doesn't contain harsh chemicals.

You can make a cleaning solution by mixing three parts lemon juice with one part coarse salt, but this method is specifically for copper roofs.

For zinc roofs, apply the powder generously over mossy areas and use a soft-bristled scrub brush to remove moss, being careful not to pull the shingles off.

Don't scrub copper roofs, as it can leave a messy mess.

Applying zinc regularly can prevent algae and moss from growing on the roof for up to three years.

After clearing debris from your roof, you'll want to rinse it with low-pressure water to remove the cleaning solution and any remaining debris. This helps prevent damage to your roof and its components.

Use a pressure washer to regulate the pressure you desire, or a garden hose pipe or garden sprayer as an alternative. Just be mindful of the pressure to avoid causing water to infiltrate into areas that should remain dry.

A broom or leaf blower can be used to clear debris from your roof before cleaning, but now it's time to rinse it with low-pressure water. This is a crucial step to ensure your roof is thoroughly cleaned and protected.

Don't use extra pressure when rinsing your roof, as it can cause water to seep into areas that should remain dry, such as windows or chimney flashings. This can lead to costly repairs down the line.

Using a mixture of vinegar and water is a great way to maintain a shingle roof that looks clean and is free from dirt and moss.

This solution is inexpensive, easy to find, and doesn't contain any harsh chemicals.

For a copper roof, you'll need to make a cleaning solution with three parts lemon juice to one part coarse salt, which requires six cups of lemon juice and two cups of coarse salt.

You may need to make several batches to clean your roof thoroughly.

Using a soft-bristled scrub brush to remove moss is a good option, but be gentle so as not to pull the shingles off.

Applying zinc powder to the mossy areas can also help prevent algae and moss from growing for up to three years.

A roof cleaner like Set & Forget can kill mold and algae, and comes in a far-reach spray bottle that attaches to a garden hose.

However, it can take months for the stain to disappear.

Using a pressure washer can be effective, but it's also possible to damage the shingles, so it's best to use a soft-bristle brush and a cleaning solution specifically designed for asphalt shingles.

These products typically contain mild detergents and solvents that won't strip away the shingles' protective coating. They're also designed to be safe for use on the shingles' surface and won't leave any residue behind.

For best results, use a cleaning solution that's pH-balanced and free of harsh chemicals. This will help prevent damage to the shingles and ensure a safe and effective cleaning process.

Using a non-corrosive cleaner is crucial when cleaning your shingle roof. The solution can damage the shingles or nails holding them if it's too harsh.

Non-corrosive cleaners are biodegradable and don't contain bleach or sodium hydroxide. This ensures they won't harm your roof.

Make sure to water your roof first to prevent the cleaner from drying out.

You can use Wet & Forget on any exterior surface, including asphalt shingles, because it contains no bleach, which means it has an unlimited shelf life.

It's essential to choose a cool, dry day to apply Wet & Forget to your asphalt shingles.

Mix 1 to 5 ounces of Wet & Forget with water in your garden sprayer and saturate the dry surface you're cleaning.

Don't apply Wet & Forget on a day that's likely to rain within the first 5 hours, as this can affect its performance.

Only one application is usually needed, unless you're dealing with extreme cases of heavy contamination.

The special surfactant in Wet & Forget helps give a more even dispersal and allows it to grip onto vertical surfaces.

Here's a step-by-step guide to using Wet & Forget on your asphalt shingles:

Gather Safety Gear is the first step in using specialized products for a job.

You'll need safety goggles to protect your eyes from any harsh chemicals or debris. A respirator mask is also crucial to prevent inhaling fumes or particles.

Protective clothing, such as gloves and a long-sleeved shirt, will shield your skin from potential splatters or spills. A roof harness is necessary for safe access to the roof, and a ladder is required to reach the roof safely.