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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.

It’s possible that installing solar panels can lead to mold on the roof. The panels themselves are not the issue. Problems caused by improper installation—such as roof leaks and mounts that aren’t sealed properly—can cause mold. Another potential cause of mold is debris accumulation under panels, which can trap moisture. If you live somewhere with extreme snow, rain, or hail, your home could be more prone to mold.

For most people, summer is the best season to clean roof shingles. You want a day with dry weather and comfortable temperatures. In hot climates, late spring may work better for washing shingles. Avoid cleaning roof shingles at any time where ice could form from applying water in low temperatures.

If you’re painting your home or monitoring a job as it’s being completed, squash the issue ASAP if you notice paint is getting onto the roof. Keeping it clean is one of the keys to extending your roof’s life.

Removing latex paint before it dries is much easier and lowers the risk of damaging your shingles (more on that below). Simply spray the spot with a hose for one to two minutes to clear away the drying paint. In general, this is a good way to remove ugly stains from your roof without using chemicals.