Pressure Washing Your Commercial or Residential Metal Roof

Metal roof before pressure washing

​Metal roofs are popular in the Clearwater area for both homes and businesses because of their ability to withstand the high winds of tropical storms and hurricanes. The average lifespan of a metal roof is slightly longer than for asphalt. 

Generally, you can expect to get about 17 to 20 years out of a roof made of this material. You may not think much about cleaning your metal roof, but a regular maintenance regimen is important to its longevity along with its ability to withstand high winds. Aluminum and zinc roofs provide the best resistance to wind, as some are able to withstand a force up to 160 mph. These types also have a higher resistance to impact damage. Because of these characteristics, metal roofs have become increasingly popular along with the fact that they need little maintenance.

​Little does not mean performing no maintenance at all, however, as metal roofs are also prone to developing rust in the Clearwater climate. Rust can weaken the integrity of the roof, and along with it, lessen its ability to withstand high winds. That’s why it’s essential to periodically clean your metal roof to remove rust and other contaminants.


How to Clean Your Metal Roof

The most effective way of cleaning your metal roof is through pressure washing. Unlike other types of roofing materials, metal can withstand higher pressures without becoming damaged. Thus, it’s easier for the occasional user to rent a machine and power wash the surface.

At the same point, though, you need to pay attention to safety measures when performing roof cleaning on metal surfaces. Commercial roofs usually have little or no pitch, so you are able to walk on them while cleaning. Metal surfaces can become extremely slippery when wet, meaning you can risk a serious fall. If you intend to perform power washing on your own, make sure you own or can rent the proper safety equipment. You'll need what is called a fall safe, which is essentially a harness and tether that prevents you from falling. You should also have a ladder equipped with padded stabilizers for additional safety when working on top of a metal roof so you won't scratch or otherwise damage the roof's protective coating.

When renting pressure washing equipment, make sure that you tell the company you're renting the equipment from that you intend to clean a metal roof. Hot water is more effective at cleaning metal roofs than cold water. Choose a nozzle with a 40-degree tip, which works well on getting rid of algae, mildew, mold and other debris. Even though metal roofs are sturdier than other types, you don't need high pressure to get rid clean it. Use a lower amount of pressure and only increase the pressure if the dirt appears to be stubborn.

If you are cleaning a flat metal roof, you can walk on it to do the job, but remember to take the aforementioned precautions. When performing roof cleaning on a home with a moderate or high pitch, never climb on top of it. Make sure that you use a ladder and spray cleaner and then rinse the surface from an appropriate distance.


Tips for Cleaning Your Metal Roof

Metal roof after cleaning by DPI Pressure Washing

​Before performing roof cleaning, check with the manufacturer to see what they recommend for cleaning agents as well as the pressure required for your roof. It's important to use a product that is appropriate for your metal roof as different materials react to chemicals and detergents in different ways. You want to make sure that the cleaning agents you use will maintain the roof's appearance and enhance its lifespan. Most metals can withstand gentle cleansers and pressure washing without sustaining any damage.

The deep cleaning achieved with power washing does not need to be performed every year. The conditions surrounding your home or business will dictate the length of time between cleanings. Generally, you can expect to clean a metal roof every three to five years. When you begin to see tree sap, rust and other hard-to-remove substances starting to accumulate, you'll know it's time for a power wash.

Even when performing a roof cleaning, some staining, along with algae and lime deposits can build up over time. Invisible bacteria can also accumulate and can augment rusting. When these processes appear to speed up, it's time to consider recoating your metal roof to increase its longevity. Depending on your local microclimate in Clearwater, a metal roof can begin to look shabby, even with cleaning, long before it needs replacing. Repainting or recoating the roof following pressure washing can be a much more budget-friendly solution.


Advantages of Pressure Washing Your Metal Roof

In addition to improving the appearance of your building, a thorough pressure washing job on your metal roof can also help with energy costs. Many metal roofs are designed to reflect heat energy back out into the atmosphere. When dirt and organic debris accumulate on your roof, they absorb heat, thus driving up your cooling costs in warmer weather. If you notice an unexplained spike in energy costs, it just might be time to schedule a cleaning.


Finding a Pressure Washing Company Near Me in the Clearwater Area

Many times, you simply don't have the time to properly power wash your roof. Why not have the professionals at DPI Pressure Washing do the job? We have the expertise and the experienced professionals to safely and efficiently do the job for you. A thorough power wash job is often less expensive than you think. When you add up the cost of renting a pressure washer along with the cost of either buying or renting safety equipment, the cost to have DPI Pressure Washing do the job won't be much more.

Your satisfaction is guaranteed. We're also fully licensed and insured to give you peace of mind. Contact us today for a quote for our affordable and prompt service.

See more roof cleaning done by DPI Pressure Washing