All About Roof Cleaning in Florida: Q&A with Hoover Pressure Cleaning
In Florida, it doesn’t take long before your once-pristine roof starts showing signs of wear, algae streaks, or built-up grime. At SonShine Roofing, we know how important proper roof care is—but when it comes to cleaning, we call in the pros. That’s why we sat down with our trusted partners at Hoover Pressure Cleaning to answer the most common questions homeowners have about roof cleaning in Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte Counties.
Whether you’re dealing with black streaks, moss growth, or you’re just wondering how often your roof needs cleaning, this Q&A covers it all—straight from the source.
Q: What’s the difference between soft washing and pressure washing a tile roof?
A: We follow the manufacturer-approved pressure cleaning standards, not heavy chemical soft-wash methods. For tile roofs, we use a surface cleaner with a light (less than 2%) chlorine solution followed by a 100% water rinse—this allows effective cleaning with less pressure while being safe for plants. This contrasts with soft washing, which generally relies on low-pressure, high-chemical (12%+) application without pressure cleaning.
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Get startedQ: How often should a roof be cleaned in Florida’s climate?
A: A colored tile roof, on average, should be cleaned every 3 years; white tile roofs are more than likely going to need cleaning every year. Shingle roofs should be soft-washed and never pressure cleaned approximately every 3 to 5 years. After our cleaning process, yearly cleaning is unnecessary—particularly for colored tile and shingle roofs. Instead, we offer the Roof‑A‑Cide “Forever Clean” program, applied every two years to prevent fungus from returning. Roof-a-Cide cannot be applied to white roofs.
Q: Will roof cleaning remove the black streaks and algae stains I see on shingles?
A: Yes. The black streaks are due to algae like Gloeocapsa magma, which thrives in humid climates. Hoover uses Roof Restore—a non-toxic, EPA‑approved cleaner—to eliminate algae, mold, and black stains from shingle roofs, restoring their original look. We do not recommend soft wash that uses a high concentration of chemicals (typically bleach) to clean, as this can cause corrosion to your nails and diminish the lifespan of your roof.
Q: Can roof cleaning damage shingles or tiles if done incorrectly?
A: Yes—but not when done by Hoover. We strictly adhere to cleaning standards from tile and shingle manufacturers, using safe pressure levels (e.g., turning down to garden-hose pressure for shingles) and appropriate products. We also walk on the roof per the tile manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid damage.
Q: What are the different cleaning methods for different types of roofs?
A: Hoover adjusts their technique per roof type:
- Tile roofs: Light chlorine solution + surface cleaner + water rinse; plant-friendly, no heavy chemicals.
- Shingle roofs: We apply Roof Restore, then rinse with mild pressure and water; plants don’t need covering; fungus returns in about 3-5 years.
- Membrane (flat) roofs: Light 10–15% chlorine solution, water rinse; deeply stained areas may remain stained.
- Stone-Coated Metal: We apply Roof Restore, then rinse with mild pressure and water; plants don’t need covering; fungus returns in about 3-5 years.
- Metal roofs: Water only clean with appropriate pressure. We do not clean Galvanized Metal Roofs.
Q: Does roof cleaning help with energy efficiency or insurance premiums?
A: Cleaning away algae does restore a roof’s reflective properties, which may improve energy performance. In general, maintaining a clean roof can also contribute to better home care perceptions—possibly favoring insurance assessments.
Q: Is roof cleaning safe for my landscaping and gutters?
A: Absolutely. We emphasize that we are plant-friendly; it’s actually our motto. Our light chlorine solution or Roof Restore solutions are safe for landscaping—plants don’t need to be covered, and we don’t use harsh caustic products; our added products are EPA-approved. We also perform debris rinses on exteriors, driveways, pool areas, and surroundings.
Q: How long does a typical roof cleaning take?
A: Given our thorough process—applying cleaning solutions, rinsing, and debris cleanup across roofs and exteriors—you can generally expect several hours to half a day for a residential roof. The great news is you don’t have to be home; we can take before and after pictures and send them to you. We do recommend that any vehicles be in the garage or away from the house, and we have unlocked entry into your screened areas.
Q: What’s the average cost of roof cleaning in Sarasota and nearby areas?
A: We base our pricing on your type of roof, the products needed and size of the area to be cleaned. For a free estimate, you’ll need to contact us directly at (941) 697-6886. We serve Sarasota, Manatee, Lee, and Charlotte Counties and pride ourselves on reliable, plant‑friendly service.
Q: Why is it important to hire a professional rather than doing it myself?
A: While we understand that many homeowners take pride in caring for their property, roof cleaning is one of those tasks that’s best left to professionals—especially here in Florida, where slippery tile and steep pitches can pose serious safety risks.
At Hoover Pressure Cleaning, we follow the cleaning methods recommended by tile and shingle manufacturers, using the right pressure, equipment, and plant-safe products to get the job done safely and effectively. We also know how to walk on tile roofs without breaking them—something even experienced homeowners can struggle with.
Hiring a professional helps protect your home, your health, and your investment. Plus, we do all the prep, cleaning, and rinsing for you—no ladders, no mess, no worries. You get great results without risking a fall or damage to your roof.
If you’re ever unsure, we’re happy to give you a free estimate or even just answer your questions. We’re here to help you care for your home—safely.
Final Thoughts
Regular roof cleaning isn’t just about curb appeal—it’s a critical part of extending the life of your roof and protecting your investment. And when it comes to cleaning safely and effectively, teaming up with pros like Hoover Pressure Cleaning is a smart move.
If you’re looking to bundle your cleaning with repairs or want to schedule both at once, SonShine Roofing and Hoover Pressure Cleaning are happy to coordinate. Just contact us here—we’ve got you (and your roof) covered.
