🏠 Why Annual Roof Washing is a Smart Move

Your roof protects your home from the elements—but over time, it can become covered with algae, moss, mold, and mildew. These biological growths not only hurt curb appeal but can affect the durability of asphalt shingles, making regular cleaning more than just a cosmetic task.

🌿 Asphalt Shingles: What the Industry Says

According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), the most effective way to clean algae and moss from asphalt shingles is with a 50:50 solution of household-strength sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and water, applied gently via a sprayer. Let it dwell for 15–20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with low pressure water. This method avoids damage to shingles that high-pressure cleaning could cause Paint Talk+6Miller Roofing and Renovations+6Paint Talk+6Reddit+2asphaltroofing.org+2Wikipedia+2.

Most manufacturers reference these ARMA guidelines and explicitly recommend bleach-based cleaning for asphalt shingle maintenance. While specific packaging instructions vary, many shingle brands point customers to follow these industry-standard practices Redditasphaltroofing.org.

📅 How Often Should You Clean Your Roof?

• Annual cleaning is widely recommended—especially in regions with high humidity or shade—to prevent buildup and preserve roof integrity Wikipedia+15Colony Roofers+15Erie Home+15.

• Some homeowners choose every 2–5 years, depending on local climate, tree cover, and visible algae or moss levels Erie Home+1Colony Roofers+1.

• We suggest inspecting your roof each spring and scheduling a professional soft wash if growth is observed.

✅ Benefits of Professional Roof Washing

• Extends roof lifespan: Moss can lift and curl shingle edges, increasing vulnerability to wind damage or leaks Paint Talk+15asphaltroofing.org+15Reddit+15.

• Improves appearance and home value: Black streaks from algae may not harm function but can reduce curb appeal and resale value George J Keller & Sons, LLCWikipedia.

• Prevents costly problems: Regular cleaning helps you catch small issues like lifted shingles or flashing problems early.

• Delivers safe, precise results: Low-pressure soft washing kills growth without damaging shingles—unlike pressure washing, which can strip granules and shorten shingle life Erie Home.

🧼 Xstream Xteriors’ Roof Cleaning Process

At Xstream Xteriors, we specialize in soft washing asphalt shingle roofs using the safest, most effective methods:

• 50/50 bleach‑and‑water solution applied with a garden sprayer

• 15–20 minute dwell time, then gentle low-pressure rinse

• Soil and plants protected before treatment and rinsed afterward

• Optional zinc or copper strips installed to inhibit algae regrowth Paint Talk+10asphaltroofing.org+10Prairie Exteriors and Painting+10Colony Roofers

• Safety-focused: no high-pressure washing that could harm shingles

📌 When to Schedule a Cleaning

• You notice black streaks, green patches, or moss spots on your shingles.

• Your roof is heavily shaded, or tree debris accumulates regularly.

• It’s been more than a year since your last cleaning.

• You’re preparing to sell or want to maintain curb appeal and maximize home value.

In Summary

• Asphalt shingle packaging and major manufacturers recommend using a bleach solution for periodic cleaning.

• ARMA guidelines specify a 50:50 bleach-and-water mix, applied every 12–24 months depending on conditions.

• Professional annual cleaning preserves shingle integrity, enhances appearance, and prevents damage.

Protect your roof and extend its lifespan. Contact Xstream Xteriors today to schedule your next roof wash and keep your home in peak condition.

📞 Call us for a free inspection and custom quote!