Roof cleaning may sound crazy, but cleaning roof shingles is a task many homeowners must do. Check the video for the moss, lichen and algae on Tim’s own roof. You can use a pressure washer to safely clean your asphalt shingles.

A pressure washer can damage roof shingles. You must use the correct spray wand tip when cleaning your roof. The 25 degree spray nozzle is generally the best choice. It will provide a fantastic stream of water to dislodge the moss and algae without damaging the shingles.

Try to stand on a dry portion of the roof when you work. Wet shingles can be really slippery. Always aim the pressure washer down the roof. Never aim it up the roof, as it can blast water under your shingles and cause leaks in your home.

Keep the tip of the pressure washer wand at least 12" away from the shingle surface when you begin cleaning. Clean off one shingle and check to see if the pressure washer is stripping away any of the colored granules off the shingles. Adjust the distance between the spray nozzle tip and the roof shingles to get maximum cleaning without damaging the shingles. Constantly stop and inspect the shingles to ensure no damage.

If done properly, you can remove years of algae growth, moss and lichen off your roof. And with no damage to the roof or to yourself. Just take your time.

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