Ultimate Guide to Roof Tile Cleaning: Keep It Pristine

A clean roof is not just about looks or street appeal – it also helps maintain the roof structure, prevent water damage and keep your roof material in great condition for as long as possible. Roof tile cleaning stops lichen growth, moss growth, stubborn stains and other organic growths that can lead to costly repairs.

Why It Matters

1. Prevents Repairs and Damage
   Over time dead growth, broken tiles and loose debris can compromise your roof surface. If left untreated these can lead to roof leaks, water damage or even roof replacement if the roof space is badly damaged. Regular roof cleaning and Gutter Cleaning keep your tile roof in great condition so you don’t have to pay for repairs down the track.
2. Extends Roof Life
   Moss & lichen, algae growth and other organic growths can wear down your roof tiles whether they’re concrete tiles, terracotta tiles or clay tiles. Regular cleanings remove these growths and extend the life of your roof material so you don’t have to call out for roof repair or roof restoration too soon.
3. Boosts Street Appeal
   A dirty roof with black staining, brown colour or green growth can reduce your home’s appeal. A clean roof will improve your property’s street appeal and may even add value.
4. Protects Against Severe Weather
   Prolonged periods of heavy rain, stormwater and extreme weather can create the perfect conditions for mould growth, fungal growth and future staining. Keeping your tiled roof clean will help it weather the weather and prevent lichen growth from taking over.

Signs Your Roof Needs Cleaning

• Moss or Lichen Growth: Visible moss treatment or lichen clusters are obvious.
• Black Algae or Yellow Algae Stains: These can damage the roofing material if left for a month or more.
• Loose Debris: Leaves, twigs and other debris can cause leaks or block gutters.
• Cracked or Broken Tiles: These can let water into the roof space and cause water damage or leaks.
• Discolouration or Tough Stains: Black staining or brown patches mean it’s time to get your roof cleaned.

Methods for Cleaning

Chemical Cleaners & Treatment Process

• Application: Sprayed or brushed onto terracotta roofs, concrete roofs or clay tile roofs to dissolve moss and algae.
• Pros: Kills organic growth; can prevent future growth and future staining if used with regular treatments.
• Cons: Harsh chemicals or strong actives like sodium hydroxide can kill nearby plants if not handled properly. Always follow body regulations and discharge regulations to avoid contamination of tank water or drinking water.

Pressure Washing & High Pressure

• Application: Uses a pressure washer, high-pressure power washer or pressure house washing machine to blast away dirt, mould growth and moss.
• Pros: Fast clean, effective at removing stubborn stains and loose debris across a complex roof with many rows of tiles.
• Cons: High pressure water can damage sensitive materials or ridge capping if used incorrectly. Always consider safety precautions, safety rope, soled shoes and appropriate safety equipment.

Soft Washing & Soft Application

• Application: Low-pressure water with exterior cleaning solutions or diluted natural products.
• Pros: Less risk of roof material damage. Suitable for terracotta roof tiles, concrete tile roof surfaces or roof repairs on old roof tiles that need a gentle surface cleaning.
• Cons: May need yearly applications or lighter applications over a longer period to fully remove moss growth or black algae.

Recommended Products

When choosing a roof tile cleaner look for:

• pH Balanced Formulas: Safer for your roof tiles and the environment.
• Biodegradable Ingredients: Minimises environmental impact and runoff concerns.
• Moss and Algae Inhibitors: Prevents regrowth after cleaning.

Some popular roof tile cleaning products:

• Oxygen Based Cleaners: Eco friendly options that lift dirt and moss.
• Sodium Hypochlorite Solutions: Powerful cleaners that kill organic growth on contact (ensure correct dilution to protect plants and landscaping).

DIY vs Professional Roof Tile Cleaning

DIY Roof Tile Cleaning

• Pros: Cheaper upfront, full control of the process and the satisfaction of doing it yourself.
• Cons: Climbing a dirty roof is dangerous, you will need safety rope, bungee cord or luggage tie for stability. Pressure cleaning can break individual tiles if done incorrectly and will cost you to repair or roof ripper scenarios.

Professional Roof Tile Cleaning

• Pros: Professional roof cleaners have the equipment, the team and the expertise to handle complex roof situations. They will minimize damage and often provide a quote for roof cleaning services.
• Cons: More expensive upfront. However, a professional roof cleaning team will save you from expensive repairs or gutter replacement in the long run.

How it Works

Roof Inspection

A contractor or roof cleaning expert will inspect your roof tiles (terracotta, concrete, clay) for moss growth, broken tiles or roof leaks.

Preparation & Safety

The area around the tiled roof is contained to prevent wash water from contaminating drinking water or stormwater systems. Safety gear and safety precautions (safety rope) are set up according to body regulations.

Cleaning & Treatment

Depending on the type of roof and the extent of stubborn stains or dead growths, the cleaner may use soft wash roof cleaning, hot water pressure cleaning or chemical treatment. Harsh chemicals will be avoided if possible to preserve sensitive materials.

Final Rinse & Cleanup Progress

After the pressure spray or chemical application the roof cleaning professionals will rinse the roof with plain water or tap water to remove any residue and get it back to clean.

Inspection & Follow-Up

The roof cleaning service will check for future growth and recommend maintenance. They may give you a quote for roof cleaning frequency to keep your roof repairs to a minimum.

How to Keep Your Roof Tiles in Top Condition

Maintenance

Schedule ongoing maintenance or yearly applications of soft wash treatments to prevent moss & lichen or fungal growth.

Gutter Cleaning & Gutter Replacement

Clean gutters reduce leaks and protect your roof structure. Gutters may need to be replaced if damaged.

Check the Weather

Check the rain radar before scheduling a pressure washing or Soft washing roof cleaning session. Heavy rain will wash away treatments early.

Protect Against Extreme

Weather In areas of extreme weather, quick clean sessions may be needed more often to prevent moss treatment or roof leaks.

Act Fast

If you see roof moss, mould growth or moss growth, schedule a roof cleaning now. Early intervention is the best defence against chemical delignification or other deep-seated issues.

Conclusion

From Roof Painting to Roof Restoration, a clean roof will save you costly repairs, boost curb appeal and protect the roof structure. Whether you DIY or hire a contractor, make sure you maintain and address stubborn stains, moss growth and lichen growths quickly. A good roof cleaning will keep your roof material in top condition and your home safe for years to come.

FAQ

Do I need to get my roof professionally cleaned for all types of roofs?

Yes. Whether you have a concrete tile roof, terracotta tile roof or clay tile roof, professional roof cleaners will protect in the long run and save you from costly repairs.

Can I use a pressure washer on my terracotta tiles?

While pressure washing can work, high-pressure water can crack the material if not done correctly. Soft wash or low-pressure water is often better for terracotta roofs.

How often should I clean my tiled roof?

Most roof cleaners recommend cleaning every 2-3 years. However yearly applications may be required in areas with extreme weather or heavy lichen growth.

How do I discharge the wash water to protect tank water?

Always follow the regulations for discharge and use natural products or products labelled safe for drinking water if you use tank water. Divert or collect dirty water to prevent contamination.

How much will it cost to clean a large roof?

Costs will vary depending on your roof material, roof ridges, complex roof design and the level of stubborn stains. Contact a professional roof cleaning team for a quote.