Cleaning a Metal Roof System: How To & Best Methods

Reasons to Clean Your Metal Roof

Cleaning your metal roof helps extend the life of the material. These types of surfaces are known for how well they resist rain, wind, snow,  and storm damage. However, this type of protection can only last so long if not properly taken care of!

Metal roofs have a protective coating applied at the time that they are installed. When dirt accumulates on top or debris blows into it, this coating can be scratched or worn off. This dulls the metal roof and makes it more vulnerable to damage from rainwater, snowmelt, and wind-driven debris.

#2: Gets rid of the elements stuck on the roof's surface

Cleaning your metal roofs helps you to get rid of the elements stuck on its surface. When water, snowmelt, or other types of debris sticks to your roof, it can eventually cause serious damage by wearing down how well the metal resists these natural phenomena. Cleaning a metal roof is also essential for safety. If you have an algae infestation on your roof's top coatings, then leaving it will only cause the algae to grow and spread.

#3: Maintains the aesthetics of a metal roof

The aesthetics of a metal roof can be maintained by regular cleaning. For instance, periodic washing of a metal roof can help to control how it looks and how well its color is retained.

Metal roofs can be cleaned by pressure washing them. This method is strongest at removing dirt and grime from the surface of the metal roofing system.

Pressure washers use high-pressure water jets to dislodge caked on debris, mud, oil stains, or algae that can build up over time. Start by pumping a bucket of soapy water onto your rooftop, then turn on the pressure washer.

Start by spraying the area closest to you and then move further away from your starting point, working around the roof in a spiral pattern. You want to avoid overlapping spots of soapy water or applying too much force in any area because this can cause damage to your metal roofing system.

You can also clean your metal roof with soapy water. Fill a bucket with water and dish soap, then use a sponge or cloth to scrub the roof. Unlike cleaning your roof with a pressure washer, you'll need to scrub a little more because the soapy water won't be as effective.

You can also use dish soap directly on your metal roof if you don't have any buckets or cloths handy, but this will dry out quickly and isn't recommended for how often you want to clean your roof.

 3. Basic Roof Detergent Solution

 Cleaning your roof with a detergent solution is another option for you. Fill a bucket with water, then add one cup of detergent to the mix. Use a sponge or cloth to scrub your roof and rinse off any residue after you're done. This step may be a little more tedious than a pressure cleaner, but it will sure do the job.

 4. Vinegar-Based Metal Roof Cleaning Solution

 This solution should be used when you want to clean your roof but also keep its shine. Mix one cup of vinegar with two cups of water and scrub it onto the surface using a sponge or cloth, then rinse off any residue that remains on your metal roof. Vinegar-based solutions are excellent cleaning materials for your roof because they don't have any harsh chemicals that will corrode or tarnish the metal.

 5. Treating Moss, Mildew, and Mold with Bleach

You can also use bleach to clean your metal roof, as long as you are very careful not to use too much and damage the finish. Mix a solution of bleach in water (one part bleach for every eight parts water) and apply it onto your metal roof with a sponge or rag. Let sit for five minutes before rinsing off any residue that remains on top. Moss, mildew, and mold can be removed by bleach solutions well.

When cleaning your roofs, be sure not to overuse or abuse any cleaning agents. This is important because the more you use, the heavier your roof will be put on and how long it takes to dry out afterward. Using too many cleaning agents can also cause damage to the surface of your roof and how it reacts with other things.

Don't use any type of detergent that is too strong or has many chemicals in it because this can cause serious damage to how well your roof does after being cleaned.

#2: Know products that shouldn't be used on metal roofing

 Some products can damage your metal roofs. For example, it is not recommended to use bleach directly on your roof because it can cause serious damage and discolor metal roofs over time. Use bleach with water to lessen its effect on your metal roof. Additionally, petroleum-based cleaning agents are often too strong of a product for treated metal roofs, so be sure to avoid these as well when you clean up the house.

#3: Use touch-up paint to address minor imperfections

 In addition to cleaning the metal roof, you must address any minor imperfections. For example, chipping paint is a common occurrence that can be easily remedied by using touch-up paint or an electric sander with sandpaper attached.

#4: Test the cleaning method on a non-exposed section before application

To know if a cleaning method is safe for your roof, it's essential to test how the solution affects a non-exposed section first. You can start by applying a small amount of cleaning material to a non-exposed part and seeing how it reacts before applying.

If you've been using metal roofing on your home or business, be sure not to miss these steps for how to clean them!

#5: Protect yourself if you decide to clean the roof yourself

 If you decide to clean your metal roof by yourself, always keep in mind to wear protective gear to avoid coming into contact with the chemicals. This includes rubber gloves, a mask, and goggles. Always take appropriate safety precautions when cleaning your metal roof yourself!

#6: When in doubt, hire a professional to clean your roof