How do you get rid of fungus on your roof?

To get rid of fungus on your roof, you'll need to carefully apply a cleaning solution, typically involving bleach. Here's a breakdown of the process:

Steps to Remove Fungus from Your Roof

Before you begin, it's crucial to prioritize safety.

• Safety First: Wear protective rubber gloves and a breathing mask to avoid contact with the cleaning solution and prevent inhalation of fumes. Consider eye protection as well.

Preparing the Cleaning Solution

1. Mix the Solution: In a clean bucket, combine ¼-part chlorine bleach with ¾-part water.
2. Add Trisodium Phosphate (TSP): Add a tablespoon of trisodium phosphate to the bleach solution. This helps boost the cleaning power of the bleach. TSP can be found at most hardware stores. Note: Check local regulations regarding the use of TSP as it may be restricted in some areas due to environmental concerns. If restricted, find an alternative cleaner specifically designed for roof cleaning.
3. Transfer to Sprayer: Pour the bleach solution into a pump sprayer for easy application.

Applying the Solution

1. Spray the Affected Area: Generously spray the moldy or fungal-covered roof shingles with the prepared bleach solution. Ensure even coverage.
2. Allow to Sit: Let the solution sit on the roof for approximately 15-20 minutes. Do not let it dry completely. This allows the bleach to effectively kill the fungus.
3. Rinse Thoroughly (Optional): While not always necessary, you can rinse the roof with a garden hose after the solution has sat for the allotted time. Be careful not to use excessive pressure that could damage the shingles. Rinsing helps to remove any remaining residue and dead fungus.
4. Repeat if Necessary: If the fungus is particularly stubborn, you may need to repeat the application process.

Important Considerations

• Roof Material: This method is generally safe for asphalt shingles, but it's essential to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage or discolor your roof.
• Environmental Impact: Be mindful of runoff. Cover plants and landscaping around your house to protect them from the bleach solution. Consider using a biodegradable roof cleaning solution as an alternative.
• Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable working at heights or dealing with chemicals, it's best to hire a professional roof cleaning service.
• Prevention: To prevent future fungal growth, consider trimming trees that overhang your roof to increase sunlight exposure. Sunlight helps to inhibit the growth of mold and fungus.