Cleaning your roof regularly is an important part of routine maintenance. Unfortunately, many of the homeowners across Dorset neglect this task until obvious problems arise. But some early warning signs indicate that your roof needs a good scrub to prevent serious damage in due course.
Whether you have roof tiles, shingles or slates, debris and contaminants will accumulate over time from things like dust, leaves, bird droppings and more. If left unattended, this build-up can lead to problems like blocked drainage, organic growth and staining of roofing materials. Eventually, trapped moisture and contaminants cause deterioration, cracking and leaks in your roof.
In this article, we’ll talk about telltale warning signs you can look out for that indicate a professional roof cleaning.
Organic growth like Moss, mould, mildew, algae & lichen
Nothing spoils a roof’s appearance like a green coating of moss and algae or whitish spots of lichen. Beyond being an eyesore, these invasive plants can cause serious damage if left unchecked. When moss and algae take hold on your roof, it’s a sign that debris has built up and is trapping moisture – a recipe for trouble.
These organisms thrive in warm, damp environments, and roof tiles provide the perfect conditions. They spread rapidly by sending out rhizoids (plant roots) that penetrate between roof tiles.
The trouble is that moss and algae can actually break down your roof’s surface, seams and coatings over time. They trap debris and moisture that eventually starts to degrade the tiles, shingles or slates. This can cause cracks, splits and heavy staining that worsens with every passing season.
If you notice green growth on your roof, especially in damp, shaded areas, it’s time to take action. The best approach is to have a professional roof cleaning (And if you are going to DIY then this “how to get rid of roof moss” would help you). Professionals apply special chemical treatments that kill the moss, algae and mould spores.
Staining
Dark patches and discolouration on your roof tiles or shingles are tell-tale signs that debris and dirt have accumulated. Over time, as leaves, twigs and bird droppings break down, leaving behind a residue that turns your roof a darker shade. These stains indicate that moisture has been trapped, and you must get rid of it.
Common culprits in the UK that leave stains include:
- Fallen leaves
- Lichen growth
- Bird droppings
- Air pollution
Excess Debris Build-up On Your Roof
All sorts of debris can accumulate on your roof – leaves, twigs, moss and more. At first, it may not seem like a big deal. However, if left to build up, debris can cause serious issues.
The main problem is that debris prevents your roof from properly shedding water. When it rains or snows, water cannot drain as it should through gutters and downpipes. Instead, some of that water is trapped by all the accumulated leaves, sticks and whatnot.
Over time, that excess moisture works its way through tiny gaps or cracks that can cause damage. Shingles and tiles may start to rot, felt underlay can decay, and wooden structures like fascias and soffits become vulnerable to rot and mould. Eventually, this trapped moisture can even lead to leaks inside your home.
The best solution when debris has built up excessively on your roof is to have it professionally cleaned.
Clogged Gutters
One of the early signs that debris is building up on your roof is blocked gutters. Gutters are designed to catch and drain rainwater off your roof, carrying it away through downspouts. But when they become filled with leaves, twigs and other debris, water can back up and overflow your gutters.
This is a warning sign that debris is likely accumulating on your roof as well. Leaves and other organic material often blow or get blown onto your gutters and roof at the same time.
Blocked gutters can have serious consequences. Overflowing gutters allow excess water to pool on roof surfaces, potentially seeping into any gaps or cracks and damaging underlying structures. This trapped moisture can accelerate issues like rot, mould growth and tile or shingle deterioration. In severe cases, gutters that don’t drain properly can even lead to water leaks into your home’s eaves or ceilings.
However, if your gutters are severely blocked, it’s a sign that you need a full roof gutter cleaning. This will help resolve any current issues and prevent more serious problems from moisture-related damage in the future.
Don’t ignore blocked gutters – act promptly to resolve the current problem and prevent future damage to your roof and home.
Parting Words
If you see any of these signs then you should contact a professional. We can help you catch potential issues before they become serious problems. Our roof cleaning Bournemouth service resolves many of these issues and restores your roof’s functionality. Once you spot any warning signs, rather than waiting until real damage has set in, don’t hesitate to contact us!
If you are already dealing with it, let us help you. We offer free quotations – Call us today!
