When seeking reliable roof cleaning methods, property managers and owners often wonder whether they should opt for steam cleaning or pressure washing. While each method has its merits, steam cleaning has become popular for its many benefits. Here, property owners will learn why steam cleaning is the best way to preserve a roof’s aesthetics and structural integrity.
Pressure Washing Risks
As implied, pressure washing involves the use of pressurized water to remove algae, moss, dirt, and debris from roofs. While it’s been in use for years, it has a few downsides.
- Potential roof damage. Pressurized water jets can be powerful enough to move tiles and shingles, leading to expensive, time-consuming, and invasive repairs.
- Short-lived results. The results of pressure washing may be immediate, but they don’t last, as algae and moss will regrow quickly.
- Roof leaks. The forceful nature of pressure washing drives water beneath roof tiles, increasing the risk of leaks and structural damage.
- Property owners can avoid the risk of roof damage and get the best results with safe, powerful, and effective steam cleaning.
The Benefits of Steam Cleaning
Unlike pressure washing, steam cleaning uses hot, non-pressurized water to sanitize and clean roof surfaces, making it a safe, effective alternative. It offers benefits such as:
- Steam comes out at a high temperature, which breaks down stains, grime, and dirt more effectively than pressure alone.
- Heated steam penetrates roof tiles, cleaning inaccessible spots and ensuring a thorough result.
- Safe graffiti removal. Most vandals use spray paint, which can be removed quickly, safely, and easily with a steam cleaner.
- Sanitization. Steam’s high temperature cleans and sanitizes surfaces by eliminating mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms.
- Environmental friendliness. Steam cleaning requires no chemicals, which reduces runoff into groundwater and sewer systems.
- Steam cleaning takes less pressure, which protects slate, tile, and other delicate roof surfaces.
- Faster drying. Heated steam helps roof surfaces dry more quickly than when cold water is used, preventing algae and mold regrowth.
- Labor and time savings. The speed and efficiency of steam cleaning creates faster turnaround times than other methods. This benefit is evident on heavily soiled and large roofs.
Despite its benefits, it is crucial to note that some roofs cannot be steam cleaned. If roof materials are seat sensitive, consult the installer or manufacturer to determine the best cleaning method.
Clean That Dirty, Mossy Roof the Safe and Easy Way
When cleaning commercial and residential roofs, the choice between steam cleaning and pressure washing is an easy one. Steam cleaning yields long-term benefits, a safe and environmentally responsible approach, and better results.
Property owners should not sacrifice the longevity and health of their roofs; instead, they should choose effective steam cleaning that’s backed by a commitment to customer satisfaction and a moss-free promise. Steam cleaning not only eliminates dirt, moss, mold, and grime, but it also prevents future damage, vegetation regrowth, and roof contamination. With all these benefits-along with the risks of pressure washing-it’s easy to see why steam cleaning has become the preferred roof maintenance method.