Your home’s asphalt shingles can pick up dirt and grime, especially after a busy winter season. You may not notice your roof in the springtime, but debris on your shingle roof can become very noticeable. Some homeowners prefer to tackle the chore on their own, and roofing professionals agree that it’s okay as long as you remove the debris safely and with the right tools and techniques. Here are some ways you can safely remove debris from your roof this spring.
Wait for the Ideal Weather Conditions First
Most roofs are steep, but when shingles get wet, all roofs become slippery and dangerous. Many homeowners are eager to tackle the chore, but it’s time-consuming. Let Mother Nature be your guide. The best weather for cleaning asphalt shingles is a dry, cloudy, calm day. Wet and or windy conditions increase the risks of a slip.
Get a Sturdy Ladder and Proper Gear
Always use a ladder with a stabilizer to prevent swaying and to provide a non-slip, wider base against walls or roofs. Set your ladder on level, solid ground. If you have a fear of ladders or heights, or your roof has several stories, then don’t attempt a Do-It-Yourself spring cleaning. Call in the professionals. Almost half a million people using a ladder are injured yearly in the United States.
Next, wear the right gear, including boots with a superb grip, a helmet and gloves and a safety harness for steep roofs. Don’t forget to put on protective eyewear.
Gather Effective Tools for the Cleaning
Roofing professionals recommend a cordless leaf blower on low power to remove dry debris and to keep your shingles undamaged. Also, a roof rake with a non-abrasive head is excellent for removing pine needles and leaves at ground level. Some homeowners prefer a pressure washer to zap away stubborn roof grime or moss. Again, keep it in low-pressure mode.
Spring Cleaning Roofing Techniques
Avoid walking on the roof when possible. It can be dangerous. Remember, too, that even if you’re moving carefully, each step taken can damage shingles or even compromise the integrity of your roof. A roof rake is safer and lets you clear debris without stepping on the roof as often. Always start cleaning from the roof’s top, and work your way down.
When you get to the gutters, don’t ignore them. Stand on your ladder, and scoop out the leaves and gunk. Then, rinse your roof with a garden hose and leave the downspouts clear.
Asphalt shingles are many homeowners’ favorites, but they don’t last forever. Eventually, shingles will age, crack, or some will go missing from the roof or develop soft spots. Be safe and sturdy whenever you’re cleaning a roof. If you have concerns or require asphalt shingle roof services, contact A-Top Roofing & Construction in Manalapan Township, NJ.