As a property owner, you need to think carefully about general maintenance tasks like gutter cleaning and moss removal. Roof cleaning, in particular, is a major concern. That said, determining when to complete it can be difficult. What is the best time of year to clean your roof?
The Devins Powerwash team compiled this guide with an eye on Cleveland’s weather patterns. We looked at how our harsh winters and wet springs leave debris, moss, and algae on your roofing.
Understanding Cleveland’s Climate and Roof Cleaning
We have freezing winters and snow will often deposit dirt on your roofing. The ice locks in the debris accumulation until the spring thaws. The warm, rainy Cleveland spring is ideal for moss and algae growth.
In the summer, the heat and humidity allow algae and mold to flourish. In the fall, the growth starts slowing down. However, you then have to deal with all the pollen left over from summer and the falling leaves.
Because of the weather patterns, the best time of year to clean your roof is either in the early spring or late fall. It just depends on your personal circumstances.
Best Time of Year for Roof Cleaning in Cleveland
Let’s have a look at each season in more detail. Then, you can decide which is the best for your shingle inspection and pressure washing needs.
Spring as the Optimal Season
The winter snow piles up leaves, dirt, and debris when it thaws. The longer these stay on the roof, the more they weigh it down. There’s also a good chance of them washing into your gutters and causing clogs. Finally, as the leaves decay, they increase the chance of mold developing.
In addition, the winter weather causes algae and moss to go dormant. It doesn’t actually kill them. Therefore, there are likely to be spores getting ready to bloom on your roof as the weather warms up.
Many people choose to spring clean their Cleveland roofs to prepare for the warmer months. If you follow suit, you’ll:
- Prevent algae and moss buildup
- Take advantage of the mildest weather, making roof cleaning safe
- Remove spores that will flourish in the rainy season
- Prepare your property for a fun summer
- Remove debris that might clog the gutters
Spring may well be the best time of year to clean your roof, but don’t make your decision just yet.
Fall as Another Good Option
If you thought the debris accumulation in winter was an issue, you haven’t seen anything yet. In summer, you’re dealing with the debris accumulation from the spring rains. The windy weather can also dump more dirt on your Cleveland roof.
Cleaning in the fall is a good idea because the temperatures are milder. You don’t have to deal with high heat or icy cold. If you have a lot of trees around, you’ll also want to clear their leaves to stop the winter snow from trapping them.
You also want to take care of the remnants of summer. For example, tree sap can cause significant staining on your roof. If you have allergies, you’ll do well to clear away the pollen thoroughly.
The most important reason to clean in the fall is to prepare for the icy weather. Removing debris reduces the chance of leaks and clogs. You’ll also remove molding leaves that will cause a real mess in the spring.
Why to Avoid Summer
Summer might seem like the ideal time to clean your Cleveland roof because it’s dry. However, there’s a downside. The temperature climbs quite high, making it dangerous to work on a roof. It’s easy to get dehydration or heat exhaustion.
What’s more, cleaning can actually take longer. Why? The glare from the sun can obscure some areas, making it hard to see what you’re doing.
Furthermore, the water will evaporate very quickly. Therefore, you’ll need to rinse your Cleveland roof more often. This not only complicates the process but it dilutes your cleaning agents.
As professionals, we can deal with these issues. If you’re not experienced, please don’t clean in the summer heat.
Winter Roof Cleaning Considerations
You should only consider this in an emergency. The icy weather makes your roof slippery and dangerous to walk on. If there’s snow, you have to remove it before you can clean.
At the start of winter, before it snows, you can try to clean. However, the cleaning agents aren’t as effective in the cold. Also, the water in the taps can sometimes freeze.
Can You Clean Your Roof in Winter?
You can in the warmer areas of the country. However, in Cleveland, winter isn’t the best time to clean your roof. In any other season, the answer to, “Is soft washing safe for your roof?” is, “Yes.” In winter, this becomes a “Probably not.”
For starters, you’ll need to use warm water to cut through the ice. You then run the risk of the heat causing the cold surfaces to crack. What’s more, you have to try to walk on the icy surface.
You should only consider cleaning your Cleveland roof in winter if there’s significant storm damage or leaks.
Roof Maintenance Tips for Cleveland Homeowners
Now that you know the best time of year to clean your roof, let’s look at ways to keep it in good shape. If you want more personalized tips for your home or business, call us. We’re happy to advise you.
Clear Debris Regularly
Our number one tip is to remove twigs, leaves, and other debris regularly. The main problem with these is that the rain can push them into your gutters. It doesn’t take long for nasty clogs to form.
If your gutters aren’t clear, the water flows over the sides. It ends up seeping into the exterior walls, where it can damage the electrics. Worse yet, it can accumulate around the foundation, causing cracks in the slab. At the very best, you’re facing a higher risk of mold. At worst, you’ll have to repair expensive structural damage.
Debris can also decay on the roof, creating an acidic compound that eats into the surface. Furthermore, it can attract pests. Finally, when the wind blows, heavier twigs will abrade the roof’s surface.
Trim Overhanging Branches
Having a beautiful old tree is an asset to any home. However, you need to trim overhanging branches to prevent them from:
- Dropping leaves that will block your gutter system
- Scratching the surface
- Dropping heavier branches and causing significant shingle damage
If you’re not sure whether your tree is problematic or not, call us. We’ll give you our honest appraisal.
Inspect for Damage After Storms
You should always inspect your roof after a bad storm. You should look for signs of missing shingles or water pooling. While we think of roof damage as leaks, these may simply be the last symptoms. If you can catch the issues while they’re in the early stages, you’ll save money.
Cleveland’s winter storms can be particularly brutal, so do check your roof carefully.
Schedule Professional Inspections
Our top maintenance tip is to call us in the spring or fall. We’ll come out and perform a professional inspection. Our technicians know what to look for. They’ll point out leaks, moss, growth, and other signs of damage before they worsen.
An annual inspection and cleaning helps your roof last longer. You’ll also need fewer repairs.
Schedule Your Roof Cleaning Today!
What shape is your roofing in right now? If you haven’t thought of it for ages, you need us to come and take a look. Now that you know that the best time of year to clean your roof is in the spring or fall, it’s time to schedule your free consultation.
Call Devins Powerwash at 440-429-1282 for expert roof cleaning services in Cleveland today.
