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Removing snow from your roof can help prevent ice dams, but the best thing to do is address insulation issues in your attic. If you do decide to remove the snow manually, you should always use a roof rake rather than a shovel. You shouldn’t climb your snowy roof in any circumstance, and roof rake allows you to remove the snow from the ground or a ladder. For the best results, remove snow as soon as possible after it falls.

For the best chemicals to clean a metal roof, stick to gentle detergents such as dish soap, laundry detergent, or car-wash soap mixed in a diluted solution of ¼ cup of soap to 1 gallon of water. These mild cleansers are safe for most roof finishes but are still strong enough to remove remaining dirt particles. Chemicals like bleach or acids can damage your roof, poison landscaping and grass, and pose a hazard to you and your family. If your roof is very dirty or you think it requires chemical cleaning, call a roof cleaning professional.

To keep your PVC roof in top condition, keep it clear of debris, ensure drainage systems are working properly, and inspect it for damage regularly. Keeping the roof clear of ponding water, sharp debris, and other hazards will prevent damage. Have your roof inspected by a professional once a year to ensure the seams aren’t damaged or separated—faulty seams can lead to destructive water intrusion.

Other than it looking like a dirty car, there are some other signs you need to clean your roof. Moss growth, algae (often black streaks), grime buildup, buildup under shingles, and leaf buildup are all classic signs a cleaning is overdue. If you have neighbors, take a look around. If your roof appears different in any way, that’s another sign to call a pro to have it cleaned.