Should I Clean or Replace My Roof?
Here’s what to know if you’re thinking of sprucing up your roof
Highlights
Regular roof cleaning protects from damage related to mold, moss, algae, and animals.
Roof cleaning methods vary by the roof’s type, pitch, and the extent of debris.
You may need to replace the roof if it is severely damaged or unsafe for those living in the home.
Nothing ruins the vibe of your home’s exterior aesthetic quite like a dirty or moldy roof, particularly if your paint color and roofing are both on the lighter side. The good news is that roofing materials are designed to last for decades, so cleaning is often the most sensible option if your roof is tainted by dirt, mold, or algae. If your roof has run its life span, however, it might be time for a new one.
Keep reading so that, when you ask yourself, “Should I clean my roof?”, you are aware of the pros and cons of roof cleaning and are better equipped to know when you might need to look into a full roof replacement instead.
What Is Roof Cleaning?
Roof cleaning is the process of removing moss, algae, and other debris from a roof. These substances interfere with how a roof functions and can potentially lead to damage. For example, algae can cause shingles to curl at the corners, leaving them more susceptible to rain and wind. A thorough roof cleaning includes cleaning gutters to remove leaves, sticks, and animal-related waste that contribute to clogs.
How Do You Clean a Roof?
Roof cleaning typically involves steps to kill and remove algae, mold, and moss. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) recommends covering the roof with a solution of bleach and water in a 1:1 ratio; however, you should check with the manufacturer of the shingles on your roof to see what they suggest, since different brands may recommend different water-to-bleach ratios.
After applying the cleaning solution, let it sit on the roof for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing off with clean water. ARMA does not recommend using a pressure washer on asphalt shingles because it can wash away granules. Without enough granules, the roof can lose its reflective characteristics, which can affect energy efficiency.
The steps for how to clean a roof when it is made of tile, metal, or slate may include the use of a pressure washer, but you should still check with the manufacturer to make sure any cleaning method does not compromise your roof warranty.
How Do I Know if My Roof Needs Cleaning?
A visual inspection of the roof will give you a good idea of whether or not it needs cleaning. Look for:
Moss on shingles and in corners, especially in shaded areas
Leaf piles and other debris that does not blow away
Animal droppings, dirt, and other debris
Black streaks (algae)
These signs are more than an aesthetic problem. Even bird droppings, which might seem harmless, are highly acidic and can damage shingles. Other types of debris, like leaves and sticks, can trap moisture and prevent water from draining off the roof.
Is Roof Cleaning Necessary?
Roof cleaning is a necessary part of home ownership. Regular cleaning might take time or money if you hire someone to do it, but maintaining your roof can extend its lifespan, putting off an expensive roof replacement for years.
How Often Should You Clean Your Roof?
Most roofs need cleaning every year or two. Different climates and geographic locations may need cleaning more or less often. For example, warm, humid climates cause more algae, moss, and mold to grow and may require more frequent cleaning. A home surrounded by trees may need more frequent cleaning to remove leaves and debris to prevent clogs in the roof’s valleys and gutters.
Should I Clean My Roof Myself?
You can clean your roof yourself, but take protective measures. Wear gloves and safety goggles or glasses. Be careful when handling bleach, as it can damage clothing, lawns, and landscaping.
Additionally, roofs become slippery when wet. Stay off the roof as much as possible while cleaning. When you are on the roof, wear shoes with a good grip and a harness secured to a safety rope.
Finally, unless you have roofing that is approved for pressure washing, avoid that method. Check your roof warranty for cleaning methods that could void protection.
When Should I Replace My Roof Instead of Cleaning It?
Roof replacement costs, on average, fall around $9,200. Consequently, if a good cleaning will keep the roof healthy, it is worth doing so to save money. In the following circumstances, roof replacement is probably the best option.
Roof Safety Is in Question
Roofs degrade over time, and yours might have left its best years behind. Warning signs that your roof has been compromised enough to risk health and safety include:
Water stains on the ceiling
Mold where the exterior wall and roof come together
Mold on an exterior wall
Sagging on the roof’s interior or exterior
Cracked or buckled ceilings
Cracked or crumbling brickwork
The severity of these issues will determine if you need a new roof or repairs. Consult a local roof repair company to get an estimate and a better idea of the extent of the damage.
Severity of Algae, Moss, and Mold
If you regularly clean the roof, algae, moss, and mold can be managed, but if left unchecked, these issues can extend into the attic and, eventually, a home’s ceiling and walls. Once it gets to that point, roof replacement might be among the many repairs and upgrades needed to bring these invaders under control.
Energy Efficiency
Technology continues to improve the design and energy efficiency of roofing materials. An old roof with worn-out shingles could be costing you money in energy loss. If you are ready to upgrade to a more durable material or want to install solar panels or other technology, installing a new roof might be a good way to give your home a fresh, energy-efficient start.
Pros for Replacing Your Roof
While your wallet may dislike the idea of replacing your roof, your home might thank you. Replacing a roof is pricey, but it is an investment worth making in some cases.
If left undetected, a failing roof can lead to problems with insulation, rafters, and ceiling structure. Replacing a roof reveals any problems and gives you the chance to repair any underlying issues with its structure, such as water or wood damage.
Replacing the roof can save you time and money. At some point, you may find yourself regularly making expensive roof repairs, while a new roof can last for decades before needing repairs. A new roof also comes with a fresh warranty, renewing the roof’s lifespan.
A new roof gives you a chance to change the look of your house and it instantly increases your home’s value. If you are selling or planning to refinance your home, and your roof is at the end of its lifespan, it might be worth the extra investment to replace it.
Cost Benefits of Roof Replacement
Like any construction job, the price to replace a roof depends on the materials you choose and the labor involved. A new roof can cost anywhere from $5,800 to $46,000, depending on the square footage, what kind of home you own, and which materials you choose. Cost of labor depends on where you live, but in general, you can expect to pay $9,200 on average to replace your roof.
An asphalt shingle roof is on the lower end, averaging around $5,800 to $12,700 for a 1,600-square-foot home, though it has a shorter lifespan at 20 to 30 years. With a similar 20-to-30-year lifespan, a cedar shake roof costs around $17,800 for a 1,600-square-foot house, while clay will give you the most longevity (up to 50 years) but also cost the most, at around $16,650 for a 1,600-square-foot home. Metal roofs, which last 40 to 80 years, cost around $11,400 for an average-sized roof that is between 1,600 to 1,700 square feet.
Cons of Replacing Your Roof
A full roof replacement definitely comes with some downsides that start most obviously with the cost. Additionally, if you or the contractor find a lot of damage, the cost may go well beyond the initial estimate.
Replacing a roof can be costly, but worth it when considering the important role a roof plays in your home’s wellbeing.
The Difficulty of Replacing Your Roof
If you have a technically challenging roofline, it will cost more money to replace. Roofing is a time- and labor-intensive job that requires a substantial skill set and it is on the more challenging end of the DIY spectrum. Unless you have prior experience with roofing, you might want to hire a local roofer to complete the job, instead of tackling it yourself.
Time Required to Replace Your Roof
Roofers work in large teams and often complete an entire tear-off and replacement in one day. Complicated landscaping, difficult access points, or technical gables can stretch the project into multiple days, but for a residential home, replacing a roof rarely takes more than a single work week to complete. Contractors try not to disrupt those living in the home, but there could be some disruptions to your daily routine until the project is done.
Does Cleaning Algae and Moss Off My Roof Prolong Its Life?
Yes, cleaning off algae and moss from your roof can prolong its life. Depending on the type of roofing you have, algae and moss can make a roof more susceptible to water and wind damage. If moss continues to accumulate, it may prevent proper water drainage and contribute to further water damage.
Is Roof Cleaning a Good Investment?
Yes, roof cleaning is a good investment because it prolongs the roof’s lifespan. Proper cleaning prevents clogged gutters, protects shingles, and increases the likelihood of catching roof damage before it gets too severe. Regular cleaning can also prevent the need for costly roof repairs and put off roof replacement for years.
How to Hire Someone to Replace or Clean Your Roof
Hiring someone to replace or clean your roof is not as simple as calling the first number you find. Too many people who do that get scammed and end up with subpar work that costs them more in the end. Instead, you can get connected to several local pros through Angi and compare prices and reviews.
Hiring to Replace Your Roof
Talk to a few roofing contractors and get some quotes before making a final decision. Have a list of questions ready to go before you make your calls and be sure to ask for references from past clients. Quotes can vary by a wide range. If one contractor bids far less than the others, be cautious, as you may end up with low-quality work.
Hiring to Clean Your Roof
An experienced roof cleaner should give you an estimate based on the size, pitch, type, and condition of your roof, though roof cleaning costs hover around $500. Talk to them about your roof warranty and how they plan to clean the roof. A local roof cleaner should use methods that do not void the roof warranty. They may use different types of washes, such as a soft wash or chemical wash.