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You could void your roof warranty using a power washer if you have a newer roof. With an older roof, you could knock loose older shingles. On the other hand, some people safely use a pressure washer to remove moss from a metal roof. Although you may want to use a pressure washer, the truth is that you probably don’t need it to knock moss loose. A garden hose and brush will do the job just fine and in a safer manner than a pressure washer.

A professional roof cleaning lasts about a year on average, so it’s best to do it annually. This schedule helps catch any roof problems before they become extensive and helps prevent mold, moss, and algae from forming. If you live near the coast, annual roof cleaning will help prevent salt buildup on your roof. You can add professional roof cleaning to your yearly home maintenance checklist to ensure you never miss a year.

It is possible to wash your own roof, but we don’t recommend it. First, getting up on any roof is dangerous without proper safety equipment, especially if wetting a metal roof and making the surface slick. Additionally, it’s easy to damage your roof or force water between roof seams if you use a power washer, which can lead to property damage. Hiring a professional roof cleaner will save you time, keep you safe, and ensure that your roof looks new again without damaging it in the process. Plus, roof cleaning is a relatively affordable home improvement project.

You should avoid using a pressure washer on any surface or item that could be damaged by the high-pressure spray, as some materials are too delicate to withstand the force.

Key items and surfaces to avoid include:

• Electrical Components: Never pressure wash electrical systems, as water can cause short-circuits and create a safety hazard. This includes utility meters, breaker boxes, electrical outlets, generators, and HVAC or air conditioner units.

• Delicate and Fragile Materials: Fragile items can crack, shatter, or be stripped by the pressure. Avoid pressure washing windows, glass, light fixtures, shingled roofs (especially asphalt), and stucco.

• Painted, Stained, or Sealed Surfaces: Unless your goal is to strip the finish, do not pressure wash painted surfaces, stained wood (like decks), or anything with a protective seal that could be stripped away. Be especially cautious with older surfaces that may contain lead paint.

• Soft Woods and Certain Decking: Delicate surfaces like softwood, composite decking, and antique or wooden patio furniture can be etched or damaged. If you must wash wood, use a lower-powered pressure washer with a wide-angle nozzle to prevent damage.

• Living Things: Never use a pressure washer on people, pets, or plants. The force can cause serious injury and will destroy landscaping.