Exclusive Services - METAL ROOF
Commercial pressure washing metal roof
Pressure washing a metal roof is an effective maintenance practice that helps preserve the roof’s appearance, longevity, and overall performance by removing layers of dirt, organic buildup, and especially paint oxidation that can dull the finish over time and lead homeowners to believe the roof needs repainting when, in reality, it simply requires a thorough cleaning to restore its original sheen; oxidation typically forms a chalky residue caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight and environmental elements, and when left untreated, this residue can not only worsen the roof’s appearance but also potentially reduce the effectiveness of protective coatings designed to shield the metal from corrosion, so pressure washing with the appropriate equipment, pressure settings, and cleaning solutions becomes an essential step in revitalizing a metal roof without causing any surface damage, provided the process is done by trained professionals who understand the specific nuances of working with metal panels, fasteners, and coatings. A professional approach ensures that water is directed safely, avoiding intrusion under panels or around flashing, and that the cleaning method is gentle enough to avoid etching or stripping protective layers, yet strong enough to eliminate oxidation and stubborn contaminants; moreover, using biodegradable detergents and controlled pressure allows technicians to break down the chalky oxidation without relying solely on force, protecting both the roof material and the surrounding environment, which is an important consideration for homeowners aiming to balance effective results with eco-friendly practices. While metal roofs are designed to withstand the elements and have a durable, coated surface that responds well to controlled pressure washing, the same cannot be said for asphalt shingle roofs, which is why we do not recommend pressure washing shingles under any circumstances, as doing so can cause irreversible damage that compromises both the structural integrity and lifespan of the roof; asphalt shingles have granules embedded in their surface—small mineral particles that protect the shingles from UV rays, weathering, and general deterioration—but when exposed to the intense force of pressure washing, these granules can be dislodged or removed entirely, leaving the underlying asphalt exposed and vulnerable to rapid aging, cracking, and water infiltration. Even at relatively low PSI, the focused stream of a pressure washer can lift shingles, break their adhesive bonds, force water beneath the roofing layers, and create pathways for leaks that may not appear immediately but can develop into major problems over time; this risk, coupled with the fact that pressure washing often voids roofing warranties, makes it an unsuitable and potentially costly cleaning method for shingle roofs, which should instead be cleaned using soft-wash techniques that rely on gentle, low-pressure application of surfactants and algaecides to safely remove algae streaks, moss, mildew, and organic staining without stripping away protective granules or compromising the shingles’ ability to function as a barrier against the elements. Another important consideration is that pressure washing can shorten the service life of asphalt shingles by accelerating the breakdown of the asphalt layer and increasing the roof’s susceptibility to curling, blistering, and premature failure, issues that may not be visible from the ground but can significantly reduce the roof’s lifespan and lead to expensive repairs or a full replacement far sooner than would otherwise be required, which is why professional roof cleaners always differentiate between roof types and adjust their cleaning methods accordingly. In contrast, metal roofs benefit from the controlled force of pressure washing because their solid, non-porous surface is far less vulnerable to granule loss, water intrusion, and surface erosion, making them ideal candidates for washing techniques that combine moderate pressure with specialized cleaning solutions to eliminate oxidation and restore the roof’s original color vibrancy; furthermore, metal roofing systems often feature factory-applied coatings designed to withstand more aggressive cleaning, provided the work is carried out correctly, meaning that routine washing not only improves a metal roof’s visual appeal but also helps maintain the integrity of its protective layers, preventing the accumulation of pollutants that can degrade the finish over time. Homeowners often underestimate how much brighter, cleaner, and newer a metal roof can look after oxidation is removed, and professional pressure washing can achieve this transformation safely and efficiently. Because different roofing materials respond differently to pressure, detergents, and water flow, understanding the proper cleaning method is essential, and this distinction is the primary reason we strongly advocate pressure washing for metal roofs but firmly advise against it for shingle roofs; by tailoring the cleaning process to the specific material, homeowners can ensure they receive the best possible results without compromising the structural or aesthetic integrity of their roof.
