How Often Should You Clean the Roof?

If you’re anything like the average homeowner, it’s easy to neglect your roof. You just don’t notice dirt and grime on the rooftop the way you would on a wood floor, porch space, or frequently-used bathroom. While roof cleaning isn’t top-of-mind for most homeowners, your friendly neighborhood roofing company in Des Moines suggests that ignoring this task may be a costly mistake.

Unfortunately, many homeowners aren’t educated on the importance of roof maintenance and find themselves in shock when they get the news that a roof replacement in Des Moines is the only feasible option. At that point, there’s nothing to do but pay the piper.

Shamrock Roofing and Construction, your trusted roofing company in Des Moines, IA, recommends regular roof cleaning. The frequency of the cleaning should be determined by assessing the following factors.

Time of Year

The time of year will often dictate how frequently your roof needs to be cleaned. More frequent cleanings are recommended by roofing professionals during wetter months. In seasons with lots of moisture (think spring or winter), moss and algae are more prone to accumulate. The presence of these lichens escalates already-existing problems by absorbing even more moisture. This creates an environment conducive to wood rot, which leads to the need for roof repair on your Des Moines home. 

Recent Storms

Blustery storms also create the need for more frequent cleanings. For one, storms can blow debris and leaves into your gutter system creating a backlog that could damage the shingles or flashing. When your gutters are full, it’s impossible for them to work as intended, and you may find yourself in need of a roofing in Des Moines who can clean up the mess made of the roof. 

In addition, heavy storms can whip up even heavier debris. When it strikes the roofing, it leaves large dents, cracks, and dings. With more significant damage like this, the help of an expert is required for the fix. However, sweeping off the roofing after a storm will keep gutters debris-free and also allow your local roofing contractor in Des Moines to identify and address any problem areas before they get worse.

Roofing Age

Not surprisingly, the age of the roof also impacts the frequency of recommended roof cleanings. You should schedule a roofing inspection or cleaning quarterly if your home is more than 15 years old. If your roof is less than 10 years old, an annual cleaning will likely do the trick. Either way, experts on roofing in Des Moines believe a little TLC is the best way to avoid a premature roof replacement in the Des Moines region.

Time to Schedule a Roof Cleaning? Call Shamrock Roofing!

Whether you’re in need of roof repair in Des Moines or you’re moving forward on the advice of your local roofing contractor in Des Moines to initiate a cleaning and maintenance schedule, you’ll be in better shape when you’re finished. Shamrock roofing and Construction has over 40 years in the roofing industry. We’d be happy to help you keep your roofing in tip-top shape throughout the year. Contact us to learn more about our roofing maintenance options or schedule a free roof inspection today!