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Cold Weather Cleaning Of Roofs ?

RCIA Founder

I forgot to add that the chemical is temperature sensitive, and that is why we attempt to warm up the roof. I have had several roof cleaners over the years report to me that they are using the hot water pressure washers to aid them in cleaning roofs in cold conditions.

Remember, I live in Florida, it does not get cold down here! But years ago, I theorized the whole idea of warming up a roofs surface. It works!

But from what I am told, you have to develop a knack for it, and do a small section at a time, then spray the roof cleaning mix on it. If you hit too big a section of the roof with the hot water pressure washer, the water will get cold in no time, and you must limit the temperature of your water as well, so you do not melt the roof shingles.

Roof Cleaning Katy Texas (281) 392-2304 · Oct 9, 2013

The chemical process of roof cleaning is an exothermic reaction. Which means that it puts off heat. Cold roofs absorb the heat. That is why it takes so long for the chemicals to react. They also react faster when exposed to direct sunlight. If it is cloudy that also will cause the roof cleaning solution to take longer to clean the roof. The sunlight helps provide the heat by warming the roof. In extremely warm climates it causes the roof cleaning solution to evaporate before it can clean so you have to reapply it.

So as Cris mentioned, your best options are to preheat small areas of the roof and clean them with a stronger roof cleaning solution. Just remember to dilute to chemicals more than normal to compensate for their being a stronger roof cleaning solution.

Guest

What Marcus said biggrin

We've knocked frost off of a roof with mix to get the job done in cold weather. Turned out great! Hoses sure don't like to cooperate in the bitter cold though....

RCIA Founder

Roof Cleaning Katy Texas (281) 392-2304 wrote:
The chemical process of roof cleaning is an exothermic reaction. Which means that it puts off heat. Cold roofs absorb the heat. That is why it takes so long for the chemicals to react. They also react faster when exposed to direct sunlight. If it is cloudy that also will cause the roof cleaning solution to take longer to clean the roof. The sunlight helps provide the heat by warming the roof. In extremely warm climates it causes the roof cleaning solution to evaporate before it can clean so you have to reapply it.
So as Cris mentioned, your best options are to preheat small areas of the roof and clean them with a stronger roof cleaning solution. Just remember to dilute to chemicals more than normal to compensate for their being a stronger roof cleaning solution.

Sometimes, when it has been really really hot, and/or running low on chemical, I have actually wet the roofs down with water, and then apply the solution! IMHO, this makes for the best looking final product, because the water seems to really activate the soaps or TSP.

These are shingle roofs, of course, never wet down tile or especially metal roofs, unless you want to meet God, fast blankstare

The Roof Cleaning Institute Of America Training & Certification Forum "Find A Certified Roof Cleaner Directory"

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"Find A Certified Roof Cleaner Directory"