Guys this is Sal your old roofer I need help on putting a roof cleaning rig together There is a roof cleaner I saw on you tube who wants $395. to send set of plans I think that's a bit much, if you can help I would greatly appreciate it . Also I have not joined RCIA yet I have been using the forum for a couple weeks now and getting my questions answered. I want to join, you guys have been a great help. What are the advantage of joining
Sal, all the information is here and on the various other boards. It's not that hard with all the information available here. Instead of asking a generalized question, like how to put w rig together,..crawl through the forums, look at pictures, use the search feature, etc.. Use a notepad, either on the computer or paper,..I prefer paper.
Then you can ask specific questions like,..what kind of hose is recommended,..the answer is Kuri-Tec. Some like 1/2" some like 5/8" and some even like 3/4" Some like red, some like blue,..Have a look and see which one's for you,...Dr.Seuss would be proud!
You may want to consider PTState.com and getting one of their ready made kits.
Search the forums, look at the design of the premade kits for sale online, search youtube for roof cleaning and other related things. You will find out how people put their systems together. Some even talk you through most of what you need and how to hook it up. Use it as a starting point. Buy your supplies and start building. Its really not that complicated. Suck it up into the pump, through the hose, and out the tip on to the roof.
Sal,..are [planning on using a trailer or a truck for mounting your unit? Do you still have a gas powered compressor from your roofing days? If so,..the easy recommendation on a pump is an air diaphragm pump,..very simple to use,....and the Versa-Matic pumps are a good deal. Can be found at Kleenrite.com. They have a 3/8" pump that will work fine,..just needs rinsed out after each use to ensure you get the most life out of it. They're like $100.00. Can't beat that deal,..especially if you already have a compressor.
* Because of simplicity, I would recommend and air system anyhow,..especially for someone just starting out,..the 12V still seem touchy from what I read? But many use and like them.
Buy a 60 gallon Poly tank from Tractor Supply. No need for a bigger tank,..especially just starting out.
Although I prefer a hose but reel many don't like them,..
You can get Kuri-Tec hose from PressureWasherProducts.com,..I prefer 1/2",..light and enough flow for residential. Years ago many of us here used garden hose,..and it will work for starting out. Not really recommending it,..but also not telling you not to use it,..just plan on upgrading once you see if this business is for you.
You basic system is a Pump, Tank, and Hose. With these plumbed together with non-metallic fittings you will be fine.
Sal,..as in just about any business,..the equipment/tools to do the work is the easy part,...just need to acquire it. Learning how to use the equipment/tools properly,..troubleshooting, knowing your mix, and how the weather affects your work etc,..are the things that requires more focus than simply buying the proper items to get rolling.
Point is,..get yourself set-up and don't do research to the point of confusion on what is a simple, basic setup.
Sal,..I would go the Kleenrite.com site I mentioned above and get a Versa-Matic 3/8" or 1/2",..prices vary depending on material,..so it depends on what you want to spend. The 1/2" Kynar version would be a good choice if you want to spend the money.
Ok Jeff I will do that I did go to the site you suggested but had no pics I will keep checking and thank you so much for your help it has been a great help
This is the lowest air powered roof cleaning pump I know of https://www.kleen-ritecorp.com/p-5442-versa-matic-e8pp6xpp9-38-pump-polyproplene-body-santoprene-diaphragm.aspx
My friend Ryan Wilkins of Beacon Roof Cleaning here in Florida used to use these, but had problems with the ends of the pumps cracking. We are unsure if this was due to the roof cleaning chemicals, or the exposure to the strong florida sun, or both. Ryan said he was getting 3 to 6 months use out of them, but Beacon is a very very busy roof cleaning company, cleaning many roofs per day.
Versamatic also makes a KYNAR version of this pump for 300 dollars that will last much longer https://www.kleen-ritecorp.com/p-5496-versa-matic-e8kp5bkk9-38-pump-kynar-body-teflon-diaphragm.aspx
One of these pumps, with the Harbor Freight Gas Powered Air Compressor that sells for only 499.00 makes a great roof cleaning, or softwashing setup.
Jeff I understand what your saying. Having been in the roofing business for many years I know the right equipment is very important as is the installation. Can not complete any project with a professional out come with out both. I am aware of the risks of roof cleaning. I have been studying full time for the past month both the mix and installation I ask lots of questions knowing that there is no replacement for on the job experience. Having said that
thank you for taking time to help me Sal
Sal, just keep searching and asking questions, I've always found it fun and VERY informative to sit down with a cup of coffee and just sift through the forums and topics,...and I still do,..and I will do it all Winter long, just as you should do.
Yes Sal, Jeff is right, search search search, then read read read, and you will find the answers to almost any roof cleaning questions. This roof cleaning forum has more information then any other on it.
Plus, we are always here to help you with any questions you might have.
Great Thanks guys I do have another question since you mentioned it When you catch the run off from the down spout and cart away where do u dump the mix I'm guessing US1 LOL
Once,..we dumped it back into the tank to finish a big job, Ha,Ha,..worked fine,..but it was a messy deal,..and stinky,...
Just get rid of it Sal. Stones, even blacktop or concrete,..just make sure you wet the surface first and then dump it and rinse away at the same time,..don't want it to stain,..so lots of water here.