Your house is your castle, and maintaining its structural integrity is paramount. An essential part of this maintenance involves professional roof cleaning. This may leave you wondering, “How much does it cost?” We will answer this question in this roof cleaning cost guide.
The Cost of Professional Roof Cleaning
The average cost of professional roof cleaning falls between $200 and $500. However, this price is not set in stone, as several factors can sway your roof cleaning cost. It’s not a simple process that can be standardly priced per square foot because roofs are as unique as the homes they cover.
Some roofs require hot water pressure washing, while others require gentler soft washing methods. The roof cleaner you hire will determine the best method for you.
Factors That Determine the Cost of Professional Roof Cleaning
Most roof cleaning companies consider several elements that impact your roof cleaning costs. The most significant ones include roof size, the cleaning method, roof type, number of stories, and labor.
Roof Size
The roof size directly influences the cost of cleaning. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 1,000 square feet: Expect to pay between $150 – $350.
- 1,500 square feet: Typically falls within $225 – $525.
- 2,000 square feet: You may spend $300 – $700.
- 2,200 square feet: Costs range from $330 – $770.
- 2,500 square feet: Expect around $375 – $875.
- 3,000 square feet: Roof cleaning cost may reach $450 – $1,050.
These figures are subject to change depending on additional factors such as the cleaning method and roof type.
Cleaning Method
Several roof cleaning methods are available, each carrying different costs:
Blower Cleaning
Blower cleaning is one of the least expensive methods of roof cleaning. This method involves using a high-powered blower to remove loose debris, such as leaves and twigs, from your roof. Typically, this method costs between $50 and $150.
It’s a quick process that doesn’t involve water or chemicals, making it less labor-intensive. However, remember that while blower cleaning removes loose debris efficiently, it won’t address moss, algae, or stuck-on dirt.
Chemical Wash
A chemical wash can be an excellent choice for roofs with stubborn stains or significant moss or algae growth. This method involves applying a specialized cleaning solution to the roof’s surface, which helps break down and remove unwanted material. A chemical wash is more comprehensive than a blower cleaning and can address various roofing issues.
As a result, it’s more expensive, with costs ranging from $200 to $600 depending on the chemicals used and your roof’s size. Also, remember that this method may not be suitable for all roofing materials. For instance, asphalt shingles and a metal roof may not handle harsh chemicals.
High-Pressure Wash
High-pressure washing is a method that uses a powerful stream of water to blast away dirt and grime. This method is especially effective at removing stubborn dirt and moss but should be used cautiously.
Too much pressure can damage roofing materials, like asphalt shingles or tile roofs. This is a labor-intensive process, requiring careful control of the pressure washer. As such, high-pressure wash roof cleaning typically costs between $300 and $800.
Low-Pressure Wash
If you’re looking for a gentler alternative to high-pressure washing, low-pressure washing might be the solution. It is less likely to cause damage to your roofing material and is particularly effective for cleaning metal roofs or roofs with solar panels.
The cost of low-pressure wash roof cleaning ranges from $200 to $500. The gentler approach might not be as effective at removing heavy moss growth as other methods, but it is generally safer for your roof.
Soft Wash Roof Cleaning
Soft washing is a method that combines low-pressure washing with a cleaning solution. This method effectively removes algae, moss, and stubborn stains without the risk of damaging the roofing material.
Soft wash roof cleaning services costs are generally similar to those of a low-pressure wash, with prices ranging from $200 to $600. It’s particularly favored for its effectiveness in moss removal and as a preferred method for cleaning asphalt shingles or tile roofs.
Roof Type and Number of Storeys
Different roof types require different cleaning methods, and thus, roof cleaners will charge accordingly. Asphalt shingles or metal roofs might need other cleaning solutions than tile roofs. Also, a one-story house will generally be cheaper to clean than a two or three-story home due to the accessibility.
Asphalt Shingle Roof
Asphalt shingle roofs are among the most common commercial roofing types. They are relatively easy to clean, but care must be taken not to damage the shingles with high-pressure washing. A soft wash or low-pressure wash is usually the best cleaning method for this roof type. The national average cost for cleaning an asphalt shingle roof ranges from $250 to $600.
Metal Roof
Metal roofs are durable and resistant to many elements, making them ideal for commercial buildings. For regular roof cleaning, a soft wash or low-pressure wash can help maintain the roof’s appearance without the risk of scratching or denting the metal. Metal roof cleaning costs usually fall between $300 and $700.
Tile Roof
Tile roofs, whether made of clay, concrete, or slate, require a delicate cleaning process to avoid damage. High-pressure washing can erode the protective layer or even break the tiles.
Soft wash roof cleaning is generally the preferred tile roof cleaning method, utilizing a combination of low-pressure and cleaning solutions to remove dirt and moss. The cost to clean tile roofs can range from $350 to $800, largely due to the care required in the cleaning process.
Tar and Gravel Roof
Tar and gravel roofs, commonly found on flat commercial buildings, can be tricky to clean. They require professional roof cleaners who understand how to navigate the roof without causing damage.
Since debris can get trapped easily in this roof type, a blower cleaning followed by a soft wash or low-pressure wash is often the best approach. Tar and gravel roof cleaning can cost between $300 and $700.
Solar Panel Roofs
For commercial buildings with solar panels installed on their roofs, cleaning must be done with extreme caution to avoid damaging the panels.
A soft or low-pressure wash with a specific cleaning solution for solar panels is generally recommended. Cleaning solar panel roofs often costs between $300 to $700.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Roofs
EPDM is a synthetic rubber roofing membrane widely used in commercial buildings. Its dark surface can attract and hold a lot of heat, leading to faster growth of moss and algae. EPDM roofs are durable but require specific cleaning methods to avoid causing damage.
High-pressure washing can damage the membrane, leading to leaks and other problems. A soft wash or low-pressure wash is usually the best cleaning method for this roof type. Considering the specialized care required and the cleaning solutions used, you should expect to pay between $350 and $700 to clean an EPDM roof.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Roofs
PVC roofs are known for their durability and resistance to moisture, fire, wind, and chemicals. Like EPDM roofs, they also require care when cleaning. While they can handle a wider range of cleaning methods than other roofs, a high-pressure wash can damage the seams and cause leaks.
Most professional roof cleaners will use a soft wash or low-pressure wash method on PVC roofs, as these provide a thorough clean without risking damage to the roof. The average cost for cleaning a PVC roof falls within the range of $300 to $700.
Number of Storeys
The height of your building is another factor that significantly impacts the cost of roof cleaning. The higher the building, the more risk involved and the more equipment and labor required for the job.
A single-story commercial building may cost between $200 and $500 to have the roof cleaned. However, for a two-story building, the cost can increase to $300 – $800. For buildings with three or more stories, you could look at costs of $500 and upwards, depending on the other factors discussed earlier.
Labor
The labor costs will differ based on the complexity of your roof cleaning project. For instance, steep roofs, tar and gravel roofs, or roofs with solar panels will require more labor and thus cost more.
The labor cost for professional roof cleaning is typically the most substantial overall cost. This labor includes the actual cleaning and the time spent assessing the roof, preparing the area (including protecting landscaping and other parts of your property), setting up the necessary equipment, and doing a final rinse and cleanup.
Roof cleaners usually charge per square foot because the size of the roof largely determines the amount of time and effort needed for the cleaning process. For most cleaning methods, labor costs can range from $0.20 to $0.60 per square foot.
However, these costs can increase for roofs with a steeper pitch or complex features, such as chimneys or skylights, which can complicate the cleaning process. For example, a particularly steep roof might raise labor costs to between $0.70 and $1.20 per square foot due to the additional safety measures and time required.
In some cases, additional services like gutter cleaning or moss prevention treatment might be included in the labor cost. However, other companies might charge extra for these services. For instance, gutter cleaning costs can range from $0.50 to $1.50 per linear foot, depending on the complexity and accessibility of the gutters.
It’s important to note that while choosing the company with the lowest labor costs might be tempting, it’s not always the best choice. When deciding who to hire for your roof cleaning project, consider the company’s experience, reputation, and whether they are licensed and insured.
Other Factors and Considerations
Several other factors may influence the price of cleaning a commercial roof. They include the following:
Gutters
Gutter cleaning is a crucial part of overall roof maintenance and can be an add-on service when cleaning your roof. It involves removing leaves, dirt, and other debris from your gutters to ensure proper water drainage. The gutter cleaning cost is typically charged per linear foot, with most professional roof cleaners charging between $0.70 and $1.30 per linear foot.
Moss and Algae Issues
Moss growth on a roof can detract from the building’s appearance and potentially damage the roofing material. Moss removal typically costs between $0.20 and $0.70 per square foot. The exact price depends on the extent of the moss growth and the method used for removal, with a soft wash often being the preferred method.
After removing the moss, applying a moss prevention treatment can be beneficial to help stop future growth. This treatment usually costs between $150 and $250, a worthwhile investment to extend the life of your roof and reduce future cleaning needs.
Certain Repairs
Roof cleaning is an excellent opportunity to spot any necessary roof repairs, such as replacing damaged shingles or patching leaks. If any damage is discovered during the cleaning process, repair costs can range from $300 to $1,500, depending on the extent of the damage.
Silicone Sealant
Applying a silicone sealant after cleaning can protect your roof and extend its lifespan. The sealant forms a waterproof barrier and protects against sun damage. It’s most commonly used on flat roofs and costs between $1 and $5 per square foot.
Solar Panel Roofs and Materials
If your commercial building has solar panels, they must be cleaned periodically to maintain efficiency. Professional roof cleaners can do this while they’re cleaning your roof. Solar panel cleaning typically costs between $150 and $350.
Removing and Preventing Stains
Certain stains, such as those caused by rust or algae, may require special cleaning solutions or removal techniques. Stain removal can cost an additional $50 to $100, depending on the size and stubbornness of the stain.
After cleaning, you might consider applying a stain-blocking solution to help keep your roof looking clean longer. These solutions typically cost between $20 and $30 per gallon.
Zinc Oxide Treatment
Zinc oxide treatment is an effective way to prevent moss and algae growth on your roof. When it rains, the zinc oxide is gradually washed down the roof, creating an environment where moss and algae can’t grow. The cost of a zinc oxide treatment can vary based on the size of your roof and the product used, so you’d need to check with your roof cleaning service for an exact price.
Conclusion
While the average roof cleaning cost lies between $200 and $500, these additional factors can significantly increase the final bill. Be sure to ask your roof cleaning company for a detailed quote that includes any extra services you might require.
Hiring a trustworthy roof cleaning professional like Lenox Roofing Solutions can save you a lot of costs. The company offers high-quality professional roofing services to keep your roof in top condition for a long time.