In the event of a disaster, homeowners insurance protects you by covering repairs or replacements. Despite paying substantial premiums, many homeowners are now facing policy cancellations or non-renewals due to inadequate roof maintenance.
Washing a Roof is Required by Insurance Companies to Mitigate Risks
Insurance companies require washing a roof to mitigate risks, prevent structural damage, and reduce liability concerns. For homeowners in California, regular washing a roof not only complies with insurance requirements but also offers numerous benefits, including prolonged roof life, enhanced curb appeal, improved energy efficiency, and better health and safety.
Policy Cancellation for Improper Roof Maintenance
Neglecting your roof can lead to policy cancellations by your insurance company. Insurance providers want to avoid high-risk situations that could result in costly claims for repairs or replacements. A well-maintained roof should last over 30 years. However, if an inspection reveals signs of neglect or damage, your insurance provider might threaten to cancel your policy.
During inspections, insurance companies focus on potential risks, with the roof being a primary concern as it protects the home from the elements. Visible neglect, such as moss or lichen growth, can classify a house as “high risk.” Debris accumulation can lead to corrosion or structural issues, blocking drainage and promoting moss, mold, and mildew growth. Bacterial growth, often mistaken for algae, is common in shaded or north-facing areas, causing unsightly dark stains that insurance inspectors quickly notice.
Extend Your Roof’s Life with Proper Cleaning
Washing a roof regularly removes mold, bacteria, moss, and algae is crucial. Annual inspections to address any damage can prolong your roof’s life and reduce the risk of insurance issues. Debris removal prevents discoloration and degradation, enhancing the appearance and longevity of your roof.
However, it’s essential to use the right cleaning method. Soap and water aren’t sufficient for removing organic growth. Roof manufacturers recommend using a specialized chemical solution that contains biocides and oxidizers. For instance, the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) advises cleaning shingles with a specific detergent-based solution to kill bacteria.
Damage Roof Can Void Your Insurance Warranty
Be cautious of companies that don’t use the correct PSI when pressure washing a roof. Using the wrong PSI can cause significant damage, potentially voiding the manufacturer’s warranty. Incorrect pressure washing can strip protective layers, loosen shingles, and cause cracks or leaks, compromising your roof’s integrity and leading to costly repairs. Additionally, insurance companies may revoke policies if they determine the damage was due to improper maintenance. They have specific guidelines for acceptable cleaning methods, and failing to follow these can result in losing coverage.
It’s crucial to choose a professional roof cleaning service that understands the proper techniques for washing a roof and the correct pressure settings for different roofing materials. At CA Wash Pros, we use the appropriate PSI for each job, ensuring that your roof remains intact and your insurance warranty stays valid. We guarantee effective cleaning of your roof without risking damage or policy revocation thanks to our expertise in both power washing and soft washing methods.
Cleaning Method: Power Wash and Soft Wash
Due to the climate in California, which is not humid, moss growth slows, making it more resilient to soft wash chemicals. Therefore, a standalone soft wash treatment isn’t effective enough to clean roofs in this region.
The idea that power washing damages roofs is a common misconception. We apply the appropriate PSI during power washing to prevent any damage to the roof. Our method is both safe and effective for maintaining roof integrity.
Different cleaning methods are used depending on the roof material. We use power washing for cement and clay tiles to remove mold, bacteria, moss, and algae. (Disclaimer: Cement tiles and clay tiles tend to release pigment, resulting in color fade. This is solely cosmetic and does not affect the structure.)
To address mature moss, we combine soft wash with agitation. The method of agitation varies according to the type of roof. For wood shake roofs, we scrub each plank with a wood cleaning brush to agitate and remove the mature moss. We then use a soft wash at the end to eliminate any remaining contaminants that are not visible to the naked eye.
In summary, combining power washing with soft washing and appropriate agitation methods ensures a thorough and effective roof cleaning, especially in the unique climate of California. We customize our techniques for washing a roof to accommodate various roofing materials, guaranteeing optimal results for your roof.
Trust CA Wash Pros for Safe Pressure Washing a Roof
For over five years, CA Wash Pros has specialized in roof power wash and soft wash cleaning. Our Safe Wash process successfully restored countless residential roofs throughout Northern California. Our method causes no damage and delivers extraordinary results that last for years, meeting the requirements of all major insurance providers.
By understanding the importance of washing a roof and taking proactive steps to maintain your roof, you can ensure the longevity and integrity of your home while satisfying your insurance company’s requirements. So, next time you think about home maintenance, don’t overlook your roof; it’s an investment that pays off in the long run.
If you’re interested in our services or want to learn more about CA Wash Pros, schedule an appointment online or call us at 408-800-3692 for a free estimate.