Metal roofing is known for its low maintenance needs, but even metal eventually needs some TLC. One of the small tasks you can perform in order to ensure your metal roofing (or siding) lasts for many years and keeps a pristine look is a simple cleaning of the metal.
By employing these simple tips and ideas for cleaning metal roofing in Florida or across the states, you can enjoy the beauty of a like-new metal roof for years to come.
Pre-Painted Metal
If you have a metal material that has been pre-painted or coated, then you can safely clean the metal using a simple solution of cleaner and water. Cleaners recommended for use on pre-painted metal include:
- Solutions of biodegradable household ammonia
- Simple Green (or other non-toxic biodegradable cleaners)
- Mild detergent solution
- Spic-N-Span laundry detergent
- ”Glass Wax” (for tougher stains and dirt build up)
When it comes to choosing a cleaner for your metal roofing the two main things to keep in mind are to use product that contain less than .05% phosphate and to never blend cleansers or detergents with bleach without proper knowledge.
When it comes time to clean the metal, mix your product with water. The strength of the solution will depend upon the amount of dirt built up on your metal roofing. If you are using amonia, mix one cup with five gallons of water. If you have tough stains, you can use a very mild dish soap like Ivory along with bleach. In this case mix one gallon of bleach with five gallons of water and add one cup of dish soap. This is effective for mildew and fungal growth.
Next clean your panels using a wet cloth, sponge or soft bristled brush. Never use something too harsh that will scour your paneling. This can damage your coating / paint. Be sure that as you clean the panels you rinse them off thoroughly with clean water. Solution that is left on can leave a film, or if you are using a bleach solution could lead to damage.
You can also use a very low pressure spray washer on your metal roofing to aid in removal of dirt and debris. But be sure it is not high enough pressure to damage your metal’s coating.
These simple steps can help ensure your metal roofing lasts for many years to come and continues to have the same curb appeal as it did when you first purchased the materials. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions regarding metal roof cleaning in Florida or your local area.
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