Learn why your home insurance company might require roof cleaning and discover safe and effective methods to keep your roof healthy and protect your home. Discover how to choose a professional softwash company and avoid costly roof damage.
So, why does my home insurance company want my roof cleaned? The bottom line is they want fewer claims and damages to your home. They want the black mold, that often appears as dark streaks, removed from your roof along with other organic growth. Along with this black mold, lichen and moss will also grow in the field and edges of the shingle. These three organic growths can do significant damage to your roof, as well as shorten the life of your shingles.
Black mold commonly grows on the north facing side of the home which is prone to be shaded. Lichen and moss growth is not as readily visible as mold.
Why Roof Cleaning Matters for Insurance
Removal of moss is key to preserving the water tightness of the roof. As moss absorbs water and freezes in cold regions it may expand and create water damage opportunities. As well, the tendril systems of both the lichen and moss wrap around the granules of the shingle and begin to remove and destroy the protective element of the shingle. Thus, the cleaning process needs to take into consideration the risks of damage these growths pose when cleaning.
Best industry practices for roof cleaning require trained technicians and proper chemicals. Your insurance requires roof cleaning to prevent home damage. So you want to make sure the cleaning process includes a low pressure cleaning without aggressive pressure, brushing, or scraping of the roof. The goal of the process is to remove the organics without damage. The best process will remove the black mold and kill any organic without disturbing the shingle. Mother Nature will do the rest, with a few good rains, rinsing the dead organics off the roof once the tendrils loosen and release the aggregate of the shingle.
Immediately following your roof cleaning it may look a little unsightly especially if you had significant lichen and moss growth. Once lichen and moss dies, these organics will turn gray and will be visible until they wash off the roof. What was once difficult to see will be evident. Fortunately, after several rains the moss and any lichen will rinse off the roof, leaving a safe, clean, and markedly better appearance.
Additional Tips
By prioritizing roof cleaning and maintenance, you can protect your home's value, prevent costly repairs, and maintain your insurance coverage. Remember to choose a safe and effective cleaning method, such as softwashing, and consider hiring a professional company for optimal results.
Home Services provider for Southern New Jersey since 1997. (888)-601-4257
www.bethanyassociates.com
So, why does my home insurance company want my roof cleaned? The bottom line is they want fewer claims and damages to your home. They want the black mold, that often appears as dark streaks, removed from your roof along with other organic growth. Along with this black mold, lichen and moss will also grow in the field and edges of the shingle. These three organic growths can do significant damage to your roof, as well as shorten the life of your shingles.
Black mold commonly grows on the north facing side of the home which is prone to be shaded. Lichen and moss growth is not as readily visible as mold.
Why Roof Cleaning Matters for Insurance
- Damage Prevention: Moss, lichen, and black mold can trap moisture, leading to rot, mold growth, and even structural damage.
- Shingle Lifespan: These organic growths can deteriorate the granules on your shingles, reducing their protective capabilities and shortening their lifespan.
- Insurance Coverage: Many insurance companies consider a well-maintained roof a sign of responsible homeownership. Neglecting roof cleaning may jeopardize your coverage or lead to higher premiums.
Removal of moss is key to preserving the water tightness of the roof. As moss absorbs water and freezes in cold regions it may expand and create water damage opportunities. As well, the tendril systems of both the lichen and moss wrap around the granules of the shingle and begin to remove and destroy the protective element of the shingle. Thus, the cleaning process needs to take into consideration the risks of damage these growths pose when cleaning.
Best industry practices for roof cleaning require trained technicians and proper chemicals. Your insurance requires roof cleaning to prevent home damage. So you want to make sure the cleaning process includes a low pressure cleaning without aggressive pressure, brushing, or scraping of the roof. The goal of the process is to remove the organics without damage. The best process will remove the black mold and kill any organic without disturbing the shingle. Mother Nature will do the rest, with a few good rains, rinsing the dead organics off the roof once the tendrils loosen and release the aggregate of the shingle.
Immediately following your roof cleaning it may look a little unsightly especially if you had significant lichen and moss growth. Once lichen and moss dies, these organics will turn gray and will be visible until they wash off the roof. What was once difficult to see will be evident. Fortunately, after several rains the moss and any lichen will rinse off the roof, leaving a safe, clean, and markedly better appearance.
Additional Tips
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular roof inspections and cleaning to prevent problems before they become severe.
- Trim Trees: Overhanging trees can contribute to moisture buildup and organic growth on your roof. Keep them trimmed to minimize this risk.
- Inspect Gutters: Ensure your gutters are clean and functioning properly to prevent water damage.
By prioritizing roof cleaning and maintenance, you can protect your home's value, prevent costly repairs, and maintain your insurance coverage. Remember to choose a safe and effective cleaning method, such as softwashing, and consider hiring a professional company for optimal results.
Home Services provider for Southern New Jersey since 1997. (888)-601-4257
www.bethanyassociates.com
