Get matched with top chimney sweeps in Storm Lake, IA

Inspect annually for damage, clean debris, and reapply sealant to maintain protection.

It may require stronger cleansers or chemicals, higher-pressure spray, or scrubbing to completely remove algae from a metal roof. Start with a mild cleanser; if that doesn’t work and you're comfortable doing so, use a stronger mix of ⅓ cup of laundry detergent, 1 quart of bleach, and 3 quarts of water to gently scrub the algae with a soft-bristled brush. If algae is present across large portions of your roof, doesn’t come off with gentle scrubbing and cleansers, or is in hard-to-reach areas, this may be a job better left to a pro.

Roof raking helps clear snowfall from your roof and, in turn, you hope that this prevents ice dams. But can roof raking actually cause them? Generally, no, it cannot. But you should note that while, in some cases, you might successfully prevent ice dams from forming near the edge of your roof by keeping it cleared with a roof rake, they could still form higher up on the roof, where you are unable to reach. This may leave you wondering: Does roof raking prevent ice dams? While it is not a 100% guaranteed way to prevent them, it does help.

The best time of year for roof cleaning depends on the climate in your area, but in most cases late spring or early summer are the best times. You should plan to clean your roof when it’s dry and not too hot or cold. It’s also a good idea to clean your roof in the late autumn to remove any built-up debris like leaves or branches. On the other hand, you shouldn’t clean your roof when it’s too cold, because you can cause ice buildup.