Should You Invest in Tile Roof Cleaning and How Often?

Cleaning and maintaining your tile roof is an important part of protecting your home's structure and value. Over time, dirt, debris, mold, and algae can accumulate on your roof, which can lead to damage if left unchecked. Regular tile roof cleaning can help prevent this.

The Benefits of Tile Roof Cleaning

There are several benefits to investing in periodic tile roof cleaning:

• Improves curb appeal - A clean, well-maintained roof can greatly enhance your home's aesthetics and curb appeal. This can potentially increase your home's resale value as well.

• Extends roof life - Letting debris, mold, and algae accumulate can actually shorten the lifespan of your tile roof. Regular cleaning helps prevent deterioration and damage so your roof lasts longer.

• Prevents leaks - Buildup on your roof can lead to cracks and damage over time. Getting your tile roof cleaned periodically helps prevent leaks and water intrusion into your home.

• Reduces energy costs - A dirty or moldy roof absorbs more heat from sunlight rather than reflecting it. This can lead to higher cooling costs in summer. Cleaning your roof helps reflect heat and save energy.

• Improves air quality - Mold and algae growth on your roof can actually get circulated into your home's air ducts in some cases. Cleaning your tile roof improves indoor air quality.

How Often to Clean a Tile Roof

Most experts recommend cleaning your tile roof every 2-3 years as a general guideline. However, several factors can impact how often your particular roof needs cleaning:

Trees and debris - Homes with lots of overhanging trees tend to get more debris buildup from leaves, seeds, etc. These roofs may need cleaning every 1-2 years.

Climate and weather - Hot, humid climates and damp environments encourage faster mold/algae growth. Homes in tropical locations may need annual roof cleaning.

Roof age - Older roofs are more prone to debris and mold buildup. Roofs over 10-15 years old should get cleaned more frequently than newer roofs.

Roof style - Tile roofs with complex shapes or steep pitches make debris more likely to get trapped. These may require cleaning every 1-2 years.

Location - Homes in urban areas or near construction zones get exposed to more airborne contaminants settling on the roof.

As a general guideline for tile roof cleaning frequency:

• New tile roofs: Every 3-5 years

• Older tile roofs (10+ years old): Every 1-2 years

• Tile roofs with lots of debris/contaminants: Every 1-2 years

Perform periodic inspections of your tile roof each year to see if cleaning is needed sooner.

How Much Does Tile Roof Cleaning Cost?

Professional tile roof cleaning costs between $0.20 to $0.75 per square foot on average. So for an average 1,700 sq ft tile roof, expect to pay $340 to $1,275 for cleaning. Here are some of the cost factors:

Roof size - Larger roofs take longer to clean, increasing cost. Per square foot pricing accounts for this.

Roof pitch/access - Steep, complex roofs require more safety equipment and time to clean properly.

Cleaning method - Soft washing is gentler than pressure washing but takes more time and care.

Mold/algae removal - Killing mold or algae growth requires special cleaning solutions, increasing price.

Additional services - Some companies bundle gutter cleaning, debris removal, or sealing services at added cost.

Location - Prices are generally a bit higher in areas with higher wages/cost of living.

To save money, properly maintain your tile roof between cleanings to limit buildup. Also take advantage of occasional promotions some companies offer.

Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?

You can attempt to clean your tile roof yourself using a ladder, garden hose, and broom. However, it's an extremely dangerous job requiring proper safety harnesses, equipment, specialized cleaning solutions and techniques.

Risking injury or even death by falling off a roof is not advisable. Hiring professional tile roof cleaners is highly recommended because:

• They have specialized equipment & detergents designed specifically for tile roof cleaning without causing damage.

• Professionals have extensive safety training for working on roofs properly. They have harnesses, support equipment, and know appropriate cleaning techniques.

• You avoid liability and the risk of injury trying to clean roof tiles yourself, especially on a steeply pitched or tall roof.

• Tile damage is less likely with a professional service experienced in appropriate pressure washing methods for tile roofs.

Paying a few hundred dollars to have your tile roof safely cleaned by a professional every few years is an investment that can save you thousands in repairs or medical bills.

Key Takeaways

• Plan to invest in professional tile roof cleaning every 2-3 years.

• Costs range from $0.20 - $0.75 per square foot.

• Regular cleaning helps prevent roof leaks and damage.

• Consider more frequent cleaning if you have overhanging trees, older roof, complex roof shape, etc.

• Always hire properly trained professionals, not DIY.

Investing in periodic tile roof cleaning is well worth the costs. A clean, well-maintained tile roof prevents expensive repairs down the road and improves your home's aesthetics. Consider it as an essential part of protecting your roof's integrity and your home's value.