BLOG Why Pressure Washing Isn't the Best Choice Aug 30, 2024

Why Not Just Pressure Wash My Roof?

Isn’t this how it’s always been done in Southwest Florida? Aren’t you just going to get up there and walk around? NO! While there is some truth to these questions, it's important to understand the full picture. Pressure washing is an old technology, about 100 years old, and has been used for a long time.

So why do so many service technicians walk on roofs while blasting away with pressure washers? The answer often lies in a lack of training and understanding of the chemistry involved.

Why is Walking on Roofs Bad?

Walking on roofs can cause damage. Concrete barrel tile, for example, is designed to be walked on by roofers but not by others. When a roof cleaner uses pressure to clean your roof, they are likely to break tiles. A broken tile can lead to a damaged water-resistant membrane underneath, which may cause significant water damage inside your home. A $20 tile replacement could easily turn into a $2,000 (or more) repair bill. Given that there are safer alternatives like soft washing in Sarasota County, is it worth the risk?

Why is Pressure Washing Bad for Roofs?

Pressure washing uses high-pressure water, often at 1500 psi or more, which can cause permanent damage to roof surfaces and other areas being cleaned. This high pressure can damage the roof, potentially voiding warranties from manufacturers. Additionally, pressure washing only cleans the surface of stains without addressing the root cause—the bacteria responsible for the stains. This often results in quicker regrowth and more frequent cleanings to maintain the same appearance.

Why Soft Washing is the Better Solution

Soft washing is the preferred method for roof cleaning. It uses proper chemistry to get to the root of the problem. Soft washing lasts 4 to 6 times longer than pressure washing and uses only 60 psi or less for chemical application and rinsing. This low pressure prevents physical damage to the roof surface, and soft washing is an approved method by all roof manufacturers. We avoid walking on your roof, only accessing it in specific cases, often to reach hidden sections. We will not walk on your roof as seen in some photos.

Soft washing effectively removes all bacterial infestations using 100% biodegradable, low VOC chemical solutions that are safe for the environment.

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