The Role of Weather in Roof Cleaning: Best Times for Maintenance
With decades of experience in the industry, the experts at West Coast Moss Removal are very familiar with how changes in weather and seasons can impact both the cleaning process and the roof itself. What follows is a brief guide to seasonal roof cleaning and optimal cleaning conditions, though when worst comes to worst never hesitate to give the professionals a call.
It is a fine balance to identify the best weather for roof cleaning with a lot of factors coming into play. When it comes to temperature, the ideal range for both safe and effective cleaning is above freezing for at least four hours.
Well above freezing, without being too hot, is optimal. Extreme temperatures on either the hot or cold end can both damage shingles and make cleaning highly inefficient. It is best to aim for temperate temperatures and weather patterns.
In terms of precipitation, you may be wondering if you should clean your roof before or after rain. While light rain can help rinse off any lingering debris after a cleaning, heavy rain and winds should be avoided at all costs. Working at heights is inherently dangerous, and if you add heavy wind and rain into the mix the risk is worsened.
Of course, sun exposure is also something to consider. Not only is working in the heat of the sun uncomfortable on a steep and steamy roof, but direct sunlight can also impact the effectiveness of cleaning solutions. At West Coast Moss Removal, we would suggest scheduling all roof maintenance and roof cleaning on dry, overcast, cooler days when possible.
Beyond day-to-day weather, it is also important to keep seasonal considerations in mind. Many folks opt to have their rooms cleaned in spring, as it is a natural time to remove any debris from winter and temperatures tend to be favourable. If you are hoping for a spring roof clean, just keep your eyes on the forecast for those reliable British Columbia spring rainstorms.
Autumn is another good time to schedule a roof cleaning, as temperatures are comfortable and you can capture much of the leaves and sticks of the fall season before moving into winter. Again, keep an eye on the forecast so you are getting the work done on dry and cool – but not cold – days.
A lot of people wonder can you clean your roof in winter? The short answer is that you should clean your roof in winter but not instead of cleaning it in spring and fall. Winter can be a great time to clean in milder climates with above-freezing temperatures. In truly winter climates, it is critical to clean your roof of snow and keep a watchful eye on any ice dams that are building up in gutters. While a different type of cleaning, roof maintenance is as important in winter as it is in any other season.
Temperature, precipitation, solar exposure, and seasonal changes all play a major role in roof cleaning and maintenance. As a homeowner, you need to keep an eye on this sort of thing, but nothing can replace the importance of an occasional professional assessment.
Give the experts at West Coast Moss Removal a call for a free consultation and to determine the best course of action for a specialized roof cleaning designed specifically for your home.