Pressure Washing Roof Tiles

The Dos and Don’ts of Pressure Washing Roof Tiles

When pressure washing roof tiles, it’s important to keep a few things in mind in order to avoid damaging your tiles. First, always use a low-pressure setting when washing roof tiles – using too much pressure can break or crack the tiles. Second, be sure to hold the pressure washer nozzle at least 12 inches away from the surface of the tile while you’re cleaning. And finally, always rinse the tiles off after washing them with clean water to remove any soap residue.

Now that you know some basic tips for pressure washing roof tiles, let’s take a look at some of the dos and don’ts.

DOS:

Inspect your roof before pressure washing to check for any loose or damaged tiles. If you find any, make sure to repair or replace them before proceeding.
Always use a garden hose to wet the surface before starting the pressure washer. This will help the dirt and debris loosen and come off easier.
Start from the bottom of the roof and work your way up. This will help avoid any water runoff, which can damage the roofing material.
Cover any nearby plants or landscaping with tarps or plastic sheeting to protect them from the pressure washer.
Use a wide spray nozzle when cleaning large areas to speed up the process.
Use a fan tip attachment on your pressure washer for the best results.
Be sure to keep the pressure washer at a distance of 24-36 inches from the surface to avoid damaging it.
Use a detergent or soap if needed, but always test in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the surface.
Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing to remove any soap residue.

DON’TS:

Don’t use a pressure washer on a dry surface, as this can damage the material. Always wet the surface first.
Don’t start from the top of the roof and work your way down. This can cause water runoff, which can damage the roofing material.
Don’t use a narrow spray nozzle when cleaning large areas, as this will take longer and use more water.
Don’t get too close to the surface with the pressure washer, as this can damage it. The ideal distance is 24-36 inches.
Don’t use a detergent or soap without testing it in an inconspicuous area first, as some can damage the surface.
Don’t forget to rinse the surface thoroughly after washing to remove any soap residue.
Don’t use a power washer with a psi (pounds per square inch) that’s higher than 1,500 – this can damage your roof tiles.
Don’t pressure wash your roof in direct sunlight, as this can cause the tiles to crack. Wait for a cloudy day or wash early in the morning or late in the evening instead.
Don’t forget to rinse off the tiles after washing them with clean water. This will help remove any soap residue and prevent it from damaging the tiles.

Pressure washing is a great way to clean exterior surfaces like brick, concrete and asphalt without the use of harsh chemicals. By following these simple dos and don’ts, you can safely pressure wash your roof tiles and keep them looking shiny and new!