Keeping your brick roof tiles clean helps maintain their appearance and can extend their lifespan by removing potentially damaging growth like moss and algae. Cleaning can be done using manual methods or carefully controlled pressure washing.
Safety First
Before attempting any roof cleaning, prioritize safety. This includes using appropriate safety harnesses, non-slip footwear, and ensuring stable ladder placement. Consider hiring a professional if you are not comfortable working at heights.
Methods for Cleaning Brick Roof Tiles
Cleaning typically involves removing debris and biological growth from the tile surfaces.
1. Manual Cleaning
A straightforward method is to manually remove debris and growths.
- Initial Debris Removal: Use a leaf blower or brush to remove loose leaves, twigs, and dirt.
- Moss and Algae Removal: For stubborn moss and algae, a trowel or stiff brush can be utilized. Gently scrape or brush the growth away from the tiles. Be careful not to damage the tile surface or dislodge tiles. Work from the top of the roof downwards.
2. Pressure Washing
Pressure washing can be effective but must be done with extreme caution to avoid damaging the tiles or forcing water underneath them.
- Proper Setup: If a pressure washer is used, it should be set to low pressure. Using high pressure can strip the surface of the tiles or damage the underlayment.
- Washing Direction: The pressure washer should be directed from the apex of the roof downwards, never upwards, to prevent water from entering beneath the laps of the tiles. Water forced upwards under the tiles can lead to leaks and damage to the roof structure.
- Technique: Work in small sections, holding the wand at an angle to lift debris without blasting directly into the tile joints or edges.
3. Rinsing
After removing growths or using a cleaning solution (if applicable and tile-appropriate), rinse the roof thoroughly. Again, rinse downwards from the apex to ensure water flows off the roof properly.
Key Considerations for Cleaning
Here’s a quick summary of critical points:
| Consideration | Importance |
|---|---|
| Safety | Essential to prevent falls and injury. |
| Cleaning Method | Choose manual or low-pressure washing. |
| Pressure Washing | Low pressure only, directed downwards. |
| Growth Removal | Trowel or stiff brush for moss/algae. |
| Direction | Always work and rinse downwards. |
| Tile Condition | Avoid cleaning damaged or loose tiles. |
Post-Cleaning
After cleaning, inspect the roof for any loosened or damaged tiles. Address any issues promptly to maintain the roof's integrity.
Roof Maintenance
