The main reason for choosing soft washing over traditional pressure washing is to clean the roof without causing damage to your shingles or tiles.
Here is a breakdown of the key benefits:
1. Protection and Preservation of Your Roof
- Zero Damage to Shingles: The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) and roofing manufacturers generally recommend against using high pressure on shingles. Soft washing uses a very low-pressure stream—often less pressure than a garden hose—which will not lift, crack, or dislodge shingles or strip away the protective surface granules.
- Avoids Water Intrusion: High-pressure water can force water underneath the shingles, flashing, and vents, which can lead to leaks, rot, and serious structural damage to the roof decking and attic. Soft washing completely eliminates this risk.
- Maintains Your Warranty: Because high-pressure washing can damage the roof, using it may void your roofing warranty. Soft washing is the recommended, manufacturer-approved cleaning method, helping to keep your warranty intact.
- Extends Roof Lifespan: By safely removing harmful organic growth, you prevent premature deterioration and can potentially extend the life of your roof by several years.
2. Kills Organic Growth at the Root
- Eliminates Algae, Moss, and Lichen: The primary culprits for roof discoloration are Gloeocapsa magma (the black streaks) and moss/lichen. These are living organisms that are literally eating away at the limestone filler in your shingles.
- Cleaning Solution is Key: Soft washing relies on specialized, biodegradable cleaning solutions to kill the mold, mildew, algae, and bacteria deep within the roof's surface. A high-pressure wash only blasts the surface, leaving the roots to grow back quickly. Soft washing provides a deeper, longer-lasting clean.
3. Improves Home Performance and Aesthetics
- Enhances Curb Appeal: A clean, vibrant roof dramatically improves the overall look and value of your property. It removes unsightly black streaks and green patches, making your entire home appear better maintained.
- Boosts Energy Efficiency: Dark stains and organic growth absorb and trap heat from the sun. By removing them, you restore the reflective properties of your shingles, which helps keep your attic and home cooler, potentially reducing your energy costs.
- Prevents Repairs: Moss and lichen can lift shingles, creating pockets where water can pool and cause rot. Removing them prevents these moisture-related issues, helping you avoid costly, unexpected roof repairs.
Soft washing is the industry standard for roof cleaning because it addresses the core problem (the organic growth) using a method that is safe for the material itself.