Cedar shake roofs are a beautiful and durable roofing option for homeowners. However, they require regular maintenance, including cleaning, to keep them in good condition. Cleaning cedar shake roofs can be a challenging task, but it’s crucial to maintain the beauty and longevity of the roof. In this article, we will discuss the best way to clean cedar shake roofs, including the cleaning process, cleaning solutions, and when to hire a professional.
Cleaning Process
Cleaning cedar shake roofs require a specific cleaning process to avoid damaging the roof’s shingles. Here’s a step-by-step guide on the best way to clean cedar shake roofs:
Safety Precautions: Start by wearing protective clothing and equipment, including gloves, goggles, and a respirator. Cedar shake roofs are prone to moss, algae, mildew, and other organic growth, which can be hazardous to your health.
Remove Debris: Start by removing any debris, such as leaves, twigs, and branches, from the roof’s surface. Debris can accumulate on the roof and trap moisture, leading to decay and damage.
Remove Moss and Lichen: Use a moss and lichen remover solution to remove any moss or lichen growth on the cedar shingles. Moss and lichen can cause decay and damage to the roof’s shingles, leading to costly repairs.
Apply Cleaning Solution: Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for cedar shake roofs. Avoid using bleach, as it can damage the shingles and cause discoloration. The cleaning solution should be applied with a low-pressure sprayer, starting from the top of the roof and working your way down.
Rinse: After applying the cleaning solution, rinse the roof thoroughly with a low-pressure sprayer. Ensure that all cleaning solution is removed from the roof’s surface to avoid any damage to the shingles.
Dry: Allow the roof to dry completely before applying any cedar shake roof maintenance products, such as sealants or stains.
Best Way to Clean
Now that we’ve discussed the cleaning process, let’s look at the best way to clean cedar shake roofs.
Regular Cleaning: Cedar shake roofs should be cleaned every three to five years to maintain their beauty and longevity. Regular cleaning can prevent moss, algae, and other organic growth from damaging the shingles.
Use the Right Cleaning Solution: It’s essential to use the right cleaning solution to clean cedar shake roofs. Avoid using bleach or any harsh chemicals, as they can damage the shingles and cause discoloration.
Remove Moss and Lichen: Moss and lichen can cause decay and damage to cedar shake roofs. It’s crucial to remove any moss or lichen growth as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs.
Hire a Professional: Cleaning cedar shake roofs can be a challenging task, especially for homeowners with little or no experience. Hiring a professional can ensure that the roof is cleaned safely and effectively.
Cedar Shake Roof Maintenance
Cedar shake roofs require regular maintenance to maintain their beauty and longevity. Here are some cedar shake roof maintenance tips:
Inspect the Roof Regularly: Inspect the roof regularly to identify any signs of damage, such as cracks, decay, or missing shingles. Early detection can prevent costly repairs in the future.
Trim Overhanging Branches: Overhanging branches can damage cedar shake roofs by scratching or breaking the shingles. It’s essential to trim any overhanging branches to prevent damage to the roof.
Apply Sealant: Applying sealant can protect cedar shake roofs from moisture and decay. It’s recommended to apply sealant every five years to maintain the roof’s durability.
Apply Stain: Applying stain can enhance the beauty of cedar shake roofs and protect them from UV rays. Stain also helps to maintain the roof’s color and prevent discoloration.
When to Hire a Professional
Cleaning cedar shake roofs can be a challenging and time-consuming task. Here are some reasons to consider hiring a professional:
Lack of Experience: Cleaning cedar shake roofs requires specific knowledge and experience. If you’re not confident in your ability to clean the roof safely and effectively, it’s best to hire a professional.
Safety Concerns: Cedar shake roofs can be hazardous to clean, especially if there is moss or algae growth on the roof’s surface. Hiring a professional can ensure that the roof is cleaned safely and without any accidents.
Cost-Effective: Hiring a professional can be cost-effective in the long run. Professional cleaners have the right equipment and cleaning solutions to clean cedar shake roofs effectively, preventing any damage that may lead to costly repairs.
Conclusion
Cleaning cedar shake roofs are crucial to maintaining their beauty and longevity. The best way to clean cedar shake roofs is to follow a specific cleaning process, use the right cleaning solutions, remove any moss or lichen growth, and hire a professional if necessary. Regular cedar shake roof maintenance can also prevent costly repairs and prolong the roof’s lifespan. By following these tips, homeowners can keep their cedar shake roofs in excellent condition for many years to come.
