San Francisco Roofing Contractor Discusses Mold Removal

Mold stains have the potential to accumulate on roof shingles that are in constant shade. They can also discolor one’s roof and damage the shingles over a given period if left unchecked. Too much mold growth can also expose one’s interior attic or crawlspace to mold spores, thereby carrying the issue over into the inside.

However, even if the situation may appear dire, you should not worry yourself too much since you can clean off mold with some basic bleach and help to save your roof before you need an expensive replacement.

Steps to remove mold from your roof

1. Ensure you protect your plants and lawn

You can splash your plants and portions of your lawn that are near to the sides of your house with water in order to protect them from the bleach solution. You may also cover them with tarps or some plastic sheeting to protect the soil as well. Also, ensure you encompass a wide radius around your home to be on the safe side.

2. Prepare and apply the bleach solution

When preparing the bleach, make sure you put on rubber gloves and a breathing mask to protect your skin and lungs from the fumes emitted by both the bleach and trisodium phosphate. Using a two-gallon bucket, concoct a cleanser made up of 1/4 chlorine bleach and 3/4 water. After which, add a tablespoon of TSP (trisodium phosphate) and stir well. Take a handheld pump sprayer and fill it with the solution, and then proceed to apply it to the moldy shingles only.

3. Ensure everything is clean then rinse

Let the solution soak into the shingles for approximately 15 minutes. If they happen to be extensively molded, you should consider letting them soak for a little longer. Next, proceed to rinse the shingles thoroughly with a garden hose using low pressure levels then rinse from top to bottom.

You should also run your gloved-hand over the shingles to check for any slimy mold that could have remained after rinsing.

4. Take the right precautions

It’s important that you never use a pressure washer to rinse or wash shingles. This is because the concentrated jet will scrape off the small pebbles on top of the shingles, thereby reducing their water repellency capabilities, which will only worsen the situation.

Need Help From a Bay Area Roofing Contractor?

If you happen to have a consistent problem with roof-mold growth, it is probably a good idea that you call a roofing contractor for help. Ben’s roofing is a reputable San Francisco residential roofing company that can repair or replace your shingles. For more details on our services contact us today at (510) 690-8570 or use our online contact form.