Roof cleaning in Reno, Sparks and Lake Tahoe
Roofs collect what the weather leaves behind: ash after a smoky summer, pine debris, lichen on the shaded slope and dark streaks that never rinse off in a storm.
Low pressure, because roofs are not concrete
A roof is a system of overlapping pieces designed to shed water, not to take a pressure washer. High pressure lifts shingle granules, cracks tile and forces water under the courses. We clean with a low pressure application and a detergent that breaks down organic growth, then let it rinse clear.
That approach works across the roof types we see in the region: asphalt shingle in most Reno and Sparks neighborhoods, concrete and clay tile in newer developments and higher end homes, and metal roofing common on cabins and Tahoe properties where snow shedding matters.
What roof cleaning removes
- Moss and lichen on shaded and north facing slopes
- Dark algae streaks that run down from the ridge
- Wildfire ash and smoke film
- Pine needles, cones and leaf litter in valleys
- Dust and mineral film from sprinklers and wind
While we are up there we can also clear the gutters and flush the downspouts, which is the natural pairing since roof debris ends up in the gutter anyway.
Why it matters at this altitude
Roofs in our area work hard. Intense high desert sun at four to six thousand feet ages shingles faster than at sea level, and the freeze thaw cycle pushes moisture into any crack it finds. Organic growth holds moisture against the surface, which makes both of those worse.
Cleaning is not a substitute for repairs. If we see lifted shingles, failed flashing or cracked tile while we are on the roof, we tell you so you can get it looked at. We do not perform roofing repairs ourselves.
Questions we hear a lot
Will roof cleaning void my shingle warranty?
Low pressure cleaning is the method shingle manufacturers generally accept, since it does not disturb granules. Check your specific warranty if you are unsure.
Can you remove wildfire ash from a roof?
Yes. Ash and smoke film are part of what we rinse off, and we usually clean the gutters at the same time since ash collects there.
Do you clean tile and metal roofs?
Yes. Tile and metal are both cleaned with low pressure, with the approach adjusted for the material and the pitch.
How often should a roof be cleaned?
Every few years is enough for most homes here, sooner on heavily shaded roofs, under pines, or after a smoky wildfire season.
Where we work
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