Frequently Asked Questions
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FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers by service category
Roof Cleaning & Moss Treatment
The cost to clean a roof varies based on how big the roof is, what kind of material it is made of, and the type of cleaning that is required. Most residential home owners pay between $300 and $800 for a professional to clean their roof.
It’s important to know that cleaning a shingle roof can be dangerous and difficult. It’s better to hire a professional who has the right tools and expertise to do the job safely and effectively. If you try to clean it yourself, you are putting yourself at risk of injury or damaging the shingles.
While the cost of hiring a professional to clean your roof may seem high, it’s worthwhile investment to prevent your roof from potential damage and extend your roofs lifespan.
Maintaining the cleanliness of your roof is not just about aesthetics; it’s a vital part of home care. In Portland, where the climate can lead to moss and algae growth, regular roof cleaning prevents damage to roofing materials, extends the life of your roof, and maintains your home’s curb appeal.
The best time for roof cleaning in Portland, Oregon, typically aligns with the dry seasons. Late spring through early fall offers ideal conditions, ensuring that the cleaning process is effective and the roof has time to dry properly afterward.
Experts recommend having your roof cleaned at least once every 1-2 years. However, if you live in an area with a lot of trees, moisture, or your roof is prone to moss or algae growth, you may need your roof cleaned more frequently.
Professionals use an environmentally safe roof cleaning detergent solution and roof safe cleaning equipment. The cleaning solution is a mixture of water and a chemical cleaner that is specifically made to remove algae, moss, and other stains from a roof.
For most roofs we use a soft wash technique which includes a soft bristle brush, a cleaning solution, and a low pressure water system.
It is important to note that while pressure washing can be effective at removing dirt, it can also damage your roof and void your roofs warranty. That is why we recommend hiring a professional to do the job right.
Soft washing is often considered the best method for roof cleaning, especially in Portland. This technique uses low-pressure washing combined with specialized cleaning solutions to safely remove moss, algae, and build-up without damaging the roof. It’s particularly effective for moss and algae prevention, common issues in Portland’s damp climate.
The cost to remove moss from a roof varies based on how big the roof is and the type of material the roof is made out of. Most residential home owners pay between $200 and $800 for a professional to clean their roof.
In addition to moss removal we greatly recommend having your roof treated for moss prevention. This can typically cost between $140 to $250+ depending on the size of your roof.
Similarly to garden weed treatments, moss treatments are not a once and done solution. Generally it is recommended to have moss treatment applied to your roof once every 1-2 years to prevent moss and other types of fungi. However, the frequency may vary depending of various factors like the area, surrounding trees, and shade.
If left unattended, moss can cause significant damage to your roof. It retains moisture against the roof surface, leading to rot, corrosion of roofing materials, and potential leaks. Furthermore, moss growth can lift shingles, compromising the roof’s integrity and leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Gutter Cleaning
The cost of gutter cleaning can vary depending on multiple factors, such as the length of your gutters, and the type of gutters. Most residential home owners pay between $200 and $600 for a professional to clean their gutters. However, it can be lower or higher depending on specific reasons. That’s why its important to reach out for your free estimate for your specific situation.
Experts recommend having your gutters cleaned at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. However, if you live in an area with a lot of trees, you may need your gutters cleaned more frequently. Regular cleaning will prevent clogging and potential damage so it’s important to schedule gutter cleaning.
Gutter cleaning is crucial for maintaining your home’s structural integrity. Neglected gutters can lead to water damage, foundation issues, and roof damage. Regular gutter care prevents these costly problems and ensures rainwater is properly channeled away from your home.
Failure to maintain gutters can have severe consequences. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, causing damage to the roof, siding, and foundation of your house. This neglect can also lead to pest infestations and compromised structural integrity.
The best time for gutter cleaning in Portland, OR, and surrounding areas is typically in the late fall after most of the leaves have fallen, and in the spring to clear out winter debris. This timing helps prepare your gutters for the rainy seasons, ensuring they function correctly. For more information on timing and frequency of gutter cleaning read our article “What Time of Year is Best for Gutter Cleaning?”.
Experts recommend cleaning your gutters at least twice a year. However, properties with more foliage may require more frequent cleaning. Keeping gutters clear is essential for the longevity of your home’s exterior. For more information of gutter cleaning frequency read our article called “How Often Should Gutters Be Cleaned?”.
Professionals use ladders with stabilizer bars so the ladder does not make contact with your gutters. We use a blower to remove any lose debris and then clean the gutters to the metal removing any slug and build up. We then inspect the downspouts to ensure they are clear of any clogging. We then conduct a final clean up of any debris from the gutters.
Driveway Washing
The cost of driveway washing can vary greatly depending on multiple factors, such as the size of your driveway, and the type of material. Most residential home owners pay between $200 and $500 for a professional to clean their driveway, walkways, and patios. However, it can be lower or higher depending on specific reasons. That’s why its important to reach out for your free customized estimate.
Experts recommend having your driveway washed once a year. However, it really depends on multiple factors such as the climate, the environment, the amount of traffic it receives, and the type of surface. Overtime your driveway can build up dirt and oils which can damage the driveway. Having your driveway washed professionally will prevent potential damage so it’s important to schedule regular maintenance.
Hiring a professional for driveway cleaning is indeed worth it. Professionals have the right equipment and expertise to effectively remove stubborn stains, dirt, and algae, which can be challenging to tackle with standard home cleaning methods. They ensure that the cleaning process is thorough, efficient, and property safe, thus ensuring lasting results
Professionals use multiple methods for driveway washing depending on the circumstance. We first use a cleaning solution that helps loosen dirt and grime. Then we use a surface cleaning pressure washing machine with pressure adjusted appropriately for your driveway material. This allows for an even and thorough clean. After the driveway or walkways are cleaned, it is rinsed with clean water.
Pressure Washing
The cost of pressure washing can vary greatly depending on multiple factors, such as the size of the area, and the type of surface being washed. Most residential home owners can expect to pay between $200 and $600 for a professional to clean their driveway, walkways, and patio. However, it can be lower or higher depending on the size of the area. That is why we recommend reaching out for your free customized estimate.
Pressure washing can be perceived as expensive due to several factors:
- Specialized Equipment: Professional-grade pressure washers and cleaning solutions represent a significant investment.
- Expertise: Trained technicians know how to handle various surfaces without causing damage.
- Time and Efficiency: A thorough cleaning job takes time, especially for larger or dirtier surfaces.
Yes, pressure washing is safe for most surfaces as long of the pressure is adjusted appropriately. Professionals will adjust the pressure appropriate to the surface being washed. We also use cleaning solutions that break down dirt and grime on the surface being washed allowing us to use a lower pressure and eliminating the possibility of damaging the surface being washing.
The recommended frequency for pressure washing largely depends on local environmental conditions and the material of your home’s exterior. In Portland’s damp climate, annual cleaning is often advisable to prevent the growth of moss and algae, especially on surfaces like driveways, walkways, and patios made of concrete or cement.
Pros:
- Effective Cleaning: Removes tough stains, moss, and grime effectively.
- Boosts Curb Appeal: Enhances the appearance of your home, contributing to overall property value.
- Preventative Maintenance: Helps in avoiding long-term damage due to buildup and decay.
Cons:
- Potential for Damage: If not done correctly, pressure washing can damage siding, shingles, and other surfaces.
- Expertise Required: Effective cleaning often requires professional knowledge and equipment.
While often used interchangeably, pressure washing and power washing have distinct differences. Pressure washing uses high-pressure water to remove dirt and grime, whereas power washing uses heated water, making it more effective for removing stubborn stains and killing moss or algae. Both methods, however, require professional handling to ensure safety and efficiency.
We first apply a cleaning solution that helps loosen dirt and grime. For driveways, walkways, and patios we use a surface cleaning pressure washing machine with the pressure adjusted appropriately for the material being washed. This allows for an even and thorough clean. For other surfaces like decks and fences we may also use a cleaning solution followed by using a hand held pressure washer. After the area is washed it is rinsed off with clean water.
Exterior House Washing
Soft washing is a specialized cleaning method that uses low-pressure water combined with specific cleaning solutions to gently yet effectively clean exterior surfaces. This technique stands apart from traditional high-pressure or power washing methods. It’s particularly suited for delicate surfaces where high pressure can cause damage, such as roofs, siding, and windows.
Soft washing involves a careful balance of low-pressure water, bleach, and cleaning surfactants. This combination effectively removes organic stains, mildew, and algae without risking damage to the surfaces being cleaned.
- Low-Pressure Technique: The water pressure used in soft washing is significantly lower than that of power washing. It’s strong enough to reach and clean surfaces effectively but gentle enough to avoid damage.
- Cleaning Solutions: The typical soft washing solution contains bleach or vinegar to disinfect and remove stains, and surfactants that help in loosening, trapping, and carrying away dirt and other unwanted substances. These solutions are eco-friendly and safe for both the environment and the surface being cleaned.
While both methods are used for cleaning exteriors, they serve different purposes and are suited for different types of surfaces:
- Pressure Washing: Utilizes high-pressure water and is ideal for handling tough stains and dirt on hard surfaces like concrete.
- Soft Washing: Best for delicate surfaces such as roof shingles, siding, and windows where high pressure could cause damage.
Soft washing is particularly effective for cleaning areas prone to organic growth, like roofs and siding. It not only cleans the surface but also treats and prevents the growth of algae, moss, and mildew.
- Roof Cleaning: Soft washing is the recommended method for cleaning roofs. It removes harmful algae (such as Gloeocapsa magma), which can shorten the life of roof shingles.
- Siding and Windows: For surfaces that could be damaged by high pressure, soft washing is a safe alternative, effectively cleaning without the risk of damage.
Soft washing offers several benefits over traditional pressure washing, including:
- Gentle yet Effective: It cleans without causing damage to delicate surfaces.
- Eco-Friendly: The solutions used are biodegradable and environmentally safe.
- Long-Lasting Results: By addressing the root cause of stains and growths, soft washing provides longer-lasting cleanliness.
- Cost-Effective: Prevents potential damage, saving money on repairs.
The cost washing a home exterior can vary greatly depending on multiple factors, such as the size of the home, and the type of surface being washed, and the level of dirt build up.
Most residential home owners can expect to pay between $300 and $1500 for a professional to clean their home exterior. However, it can be lower or higher depending on the size of the area, the number of floors.
That is why we recommend reaching out for your free customized estimate.
In general experts recommend having your house exterior washed once a year. However, it really depends on multiple factors such as the climate, the environment, and the type of surface. If you live in an area with lots of rain and lots of vegetation, you may need to wash it more frequently.
It’s important to schedule regular exterior washing as dirt build up can cause discoloration and even damage the siding or paint resulting in expensive repairs.
We first apply a cleaning solution that helps loosen dirt and grime. We then use a hand held water spray gun with an appropriate pressure nozzle for your homes exterior to wash away all the dirt and grime. After the area is washed it is rinsed off with clean water.
While soft washing can be a DIY project, professional services offer expertise, experience, and the right equipment for effective and safe cleaning. They can handle complex tasks and ensure that the job is done correctly (without damaging surfaces) and safely.
For any other questions, click below and contact of directly. We will happily answer any questions regarding our services. We also offer free consultations and free estimates.
Our History
Superior Exterior Cleaning Services
2015 - 2024
Locally Owned
Our homes are a reflection of the families that live in them, and maintaining them is worth the effort. Exterior cleaning is the most effective way to increase curb appeal. Roof Care PDX makes it easier than ever to give your home a complete makeover without the hassle, headache or worry. Our team of experienced roof cleaning professionals produce the highest quality results, so you get a final product you can be really proud of and that your neighbors will envy.
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