Tools and Materials
Tools
- Safety gloves
- Safety glasses
- Ladder
- Plastic pump sprayer
Soft-bristled brush
- Safety harness
Brush with a long handle
- Tarp
- Leaf blower
Materials
Metal roof cleaner
- Laundry detergent
Water
Moss and algae cleaner
How to Clean a Metal Roof: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to clean your metal roof safely and efficiently:
Begin by assessing the condition of the roof. Look for areas with heavy dirt, stains, moss or algae growth. Additionally, consider the time of year and weather conditions. It is best to clean a metal roof during cool weather as it prevents cleaning agents from drying too quickly.
Also, check the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm the recommended cleaning solutions for your specific metal roof. You will also need large amounts of water to clean the roof. Make sure you have an accessible water faucet to connect to the garden hose.
Check the roof user manual to know which cleaning chemicals are safe for your metal roof. Using non-recommended products may void the roof’s warranty or even damage the roof, leading to costly repairs.
Keep the following safety precautions in mind:
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Metal roofs get dangerously slippery, especially when wet. Avoid walking on the wet roof surface while cleaning it.
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Get the help of a friend or family member to assist you while cleaning the roof. Ask them to hold the ladder while you climb it.
- Wear rubber-soled shoes, safety gloves and safety glasses when cleaning the metal roof. Avoid wearing any loose clothing and use a safety harness.
Lay a tarp on the landscape just below the roof’s edge. This will help to catch and dispose of the debris removed from the roof. Also, check the roof and surrounding area for potential hazards. Remove any overhanging tree branches to ensure you have a safe workspace.
Set up the ladder on a flat surface and confirm stability. Go over the planned cleaning process with your helper and ensure you have gathered all the required cleaning tools and materials.
Use a leaf blower to remove leaves from the roof, gutters and downspouts. You can also use a long-handled mop or soft-bristled brush to remove any accumulated debris. Pay close attention to roof valleys, where debris tends to pile up.
Never use sharp tools or rough brushes. They can scratch the metal surface and lead to rust over time.
Accumulated dirt and moss growth often stain the roof’s metal surface. Use a plastic pump sprayer to spray soapy solution on the stained areas. Gently scrub the area clean with the help of a soft-bristled brush. Work in sections, starting at the highest point of the roof and moving downward. Spray water with a plastic pump sprayer to remove the scrubbed dirt from the roof.
Use a spray-and-leave moss and algae remover in hard-to-reach areas.
One of the best ways to clean a metal roof is to use a multipurpose outdoor cleaner. Spray the cleaner generously on the stained areas. Ensure even coverage and leave the cleaner on the affected areas, allowing the chemicals to break down tough stains, moss or grime. For most moss cleaners, no additional rinsing is required.
Read the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm if it is safe to use on your specific metal roof material.
Inspect the roof for any unclean spots and clean them by following the above steps. Once you’ve completed the cleaning process, remove the tarp and dispose of the collected debris.