Roof Cleaning
Our thorough roof cleaning service removes years of built-up moss, lichen, dirt, and debris. A clean roof not only looks better but lasts longer by preventing moisture damage.
What's Included
- High-pressure cleaning
- Moss and lichen removal
- Debris and leaf clearing
- Tile and metal roof cleaning
- Pre-paint preparation
- Gutter clean included
- Safe working practices
Over years of exposure to Gippsland's damp climate, roofs accumulate layers of moss, lichen, algae, and debris that do far more damage than most homeowners realise. What looks like a cosmetic issue is actually a slow deterioration of your roof, as organic growth traps moisture against tiles and metal, accelerating wear and creating conditions for leaks. Professional roof cleaning removes this harmful buildup, restoring your roof's appearance while extending its functional lifespan by many years.
Storm Coat Roofing provides comprehensive roof cleaning services throughout Gippsland, from the towns of the Latrobe Valley to properties across West and South Gippsland. Our experienced team uses professional equipment and proven techniques to safely remove years of accumulated growth and grime, transforming tired-looking roofs and helping them perform as they should.
Whether you're preparing your roof for painting, addressing moisture problems caused by organic growth, or simply wanting to restore your home's street appeal, we deliver thorough cleaning that makes a visible difference. Our service includes gutter cleaning as standard, ensuring your entire roof drainage system functions properly after we're finished.
Our Process
How we deliver quality results for every project
Pre-Cleaning Roof Inspection
Before any cleaning begins, we conduct a thorough inspection of your roof's condition. This serves two important purposes: first, it identifies any existing damage that needs repair before or after cleaning; second, it helps us assess the type and extent of growth present, informing our choice of cleaning methods. We check for loose or cracked tiles, rust spots on metal roofs, compromised flashings, and any areas where water might be pooling. We'll discuss our findings with you before proceeding.
Gutter and Downpipe Clearing
Effective roof cleaning requires clear drainage paths, so we begin by thoroughly cleaning all gutters and checking downpipes for blockages. This prevents debris dislodged during roof cleaning from causing new blockages and ensures water flows freely away from your roof. We remove accumulated leaves, bark, mud, and any decomposed organic matter from gutters. If we discover damaged or rusted guttering, we'll bring it to your attention for separate attention.
Debris Removal and Preparation
Before pressure cleaning, we remove loose debris from the roof surface—fallen branches, accumulated leaves, bark strips, and other material that would impede the cleaning process. We also cover or protect any vulnerable areas such as skylights, vents, and exterior fixtures that could be affected by high-pressure water. If your roof has significant moss or lichen buildup, we may apply a biocide treatment at this stage to kill organic growth and make it easier to remove.
High-Pressure Cleaning
Using commercial-grade pressure washing equipment, we systematically clean your entire roof surface. Our operators are experienced in adjusting pressure levels and techniques for different roofing materials—what works for concrete tiles would damage Colorbond, and terracotta requires different treatment again. We work methodically from ridge to eaves, ensuring complete coverage while directing debris away from cleaned areas. Special attention goes to valleys, around penetrations, and other areas where growth tends to concentrate.
Detail Cleaning and Treatment
After the main pressure clean, we address any remaining problem areas with targeted treatment. Stubborn lichen colonies may require additional attention, as can ingrained staining in porous tiles. We check ridge caps, valleys, and flashings for any residual growth or debris. Where appropriate, we apply preventative treatments that discourage future moss and lichen growth, helping your roof stay cleaner for longer between services.
Final Inspection and Site Cleanup
We complete every job with a thorough final inspection, verifying that cleaning is comprehensive and that no damage has occurred during the process. We check gutters are clear of any dislodged debris from the cleaning and ensure downpipes are flowing freely. All debris removed from your roof is collected and disposed of responsibly—we leave your property cleaner than we found it. Finally, we walk you through the completed work and provide recommendations for ongoing maintenance.
Benefits
Why this service matters for your property
Prevent Moisture Damage
Moss and lichen are like sponges on your roof, holding moisture against tiles and metal long after rain has stopped. This constant dampness accelerates deterioration of roofing materials, promotes rot in timber battens, and can lead to water infiltration into your ceiling cavity. Professional cleaning removes this organic moisture trap, allowing your roof to dry properly and resist damage.
Extend Roof Lifespan
Regular cleaning significantly extends how long your roof remains serviceable. Moss roots penetrate into tile surfaces, causing micro-cracks that worsen over time. Lichen produces acids that etch into materials. On metal roofs, trapped organic matter creates conditions for accelerated corrosion. By removing these damaging agents periodically, you protect the underlying roof materials and maximise your roof's lifespan.
Essential Pre-Paint Preparation
If you're planning to paint your roof, thorough cleaning is an essential first step that directly affects the quality and longevity of the paint job. Paint applied over moss, lichen, or dirt won't adhere properly and will peel prematurely. Professional pressure cleaning creates a clean, sound surface that allows primers and roof coatings to bond effectively, ensuring you get maximum value from your painting investment.
Transform Your Home's Appearance
The visual difference a professional roof clean makes is often dramatic. Years of accumulated grime can leave a roof looking decades older than it actually is. Removing this buildup reveals the true colour of your roofing material and restores the crisp, clean appearance your home had when the roof was new. For properties being prepared for sale, a clean roof significantly improves street appeal and buyer perception.
Identify Hidden Problems
The cleaning process often reveals underlying issues that were hidden by moss and debris. Cracked tiles, rust spots, failed sealants, and other problems become visible once the roof is clean. This gives you the opportunity to address these issues before they cause serious damage. Our inspection as part of the cleaning service means you'll be informed about any concerns we identify.
Why Gippsland Roofs Need Regular Cleaning
Gippsland's climate is particularly conducive to moss and lichen growth on roofs. The region receives substantial rainfall throughout the year, with Traralgon averaging around 700mm annually and elevated areas receiving even more. Combined with moderate temperatures and frequent overcast conditions that limit drying, this creates ideal conditions for organic growth to flourish on roof surfaces.
South-facing roof slopes are especially vulnerable, as they receive less direct sunlight and remain damp for extended periods. Properties surrounded by trees or in sheltered locations face additional challenges, with shade limiting natural drying and falling debris providing nutrients for moss and lichen colonisation.
The cooling towers and industrial heritage of the Latrobe Valley add another dimension to local roof soiling. Airborne particles settle on roof surfaces, creating a grimy layer that combined with organic growth can dramatically alter a roof's appearance within just a few years. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain both appearance and roof integrity in this environment.
Eucalyptus trees, prevalent throughout Gippsland, shed bark and leaves year-round. This debris accumulates in valleys and against flashings, blocking drainage and creating damp pockets where moss thrives. Gum sap can also stain roofing materials if left in place. Our cleaning service addresses these tree-related challenges comprehensively.
Professional Equipment and Safe Techniques
Effective roof cleaning requires more than just high water pressure. Our commercial-grade equipment delivers consistent, controlled pressure that removes growth and grime without damaging roofing materials. Consumer-grade pressure washers typically lack either the pressure to clean effectively or the control to prevent damage—often both.
Technique matters as much as equipment. Our operators understand the importance of correct cleaning angles, appropriate distance from the surface, and methodical coverage patterns. Incorrect technique can force water under tiles, damage surface coatings, or leave streaking patterns. Our experience across thousands of Gippsland roofs has refined our approach for optimal results on different materials and roof types.
For heavily affected roofs, we use professional biocide treatments that kill moss, lichen, and algae at the root level. These products are specifically formulated for roofing applications, delivering effective results without harming roofing materials, surrounding vegetation, or the environment. When biocide treatment is recommended, we explain the process and any precautions required.
Safety is paramount in all our operations. Our team uses appropriate harnesses and equipment on steep or high roofs, and we take care to protect your property, landscaping, and ourselves throughout the cleaning process. We carry comprehensive insurance for your peace of mind and ours.
Why Choose Storm Coat
Local expertise you can count on
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about roof cleaning
How often should I have my roof professionally cleaned?
For most Gippsland properties, we recommend professional roof cleaning every three to five years, though this varies depending on your specific circumstances. Properties with significant tree coverage, south-facing roof slopes, or in particularly damp locations may benefit from more frequent cleaning. After your initial clean, we can advise on an appropriate maintenance schedule based on what we observe about moss and lichen regrowth patterns on your particular roof.
Will pressure cleaning damage my roof tiles?
When performed correctly by experienced operators, pressure cleaning does not damage roof tiles. The key is using appropriate pressure levels, correct techniques, and proper equipment. Concrete tiles are robust and handle pressure cleaning well. Terracotta tiles require more careful handling due to their glaze, and we adjust our approach accordingly. Metal roofs clean very effectively at moderate pressures. We assess each roof individually and adapt our methods to ensure thorough cleaning without damage.
Can you clean my roof without damaging my garden?
Yes, we take care to protect your landscaping during the cleaning process. We cover or wet down sensitive plants near the house before starting and direct debris away from garden beds where possible. The biocide products we use are selected to be safe once diluted and rinsed. We also clean up thoroughly after the job, removing debris from lawns and garden areas. If you have particular concerns about specific plants or garden features, let us know and we'll take extra precautions.
Is roof cleaning necessary before painting?
Absolutely. Thorough cleaning is perhaps the most critical step in any roof painting project. Paint simply will not adhere properly to moss, lichen, dirt, or flaky surfaces. Skipping or rushing the cleaning process is the main reason roof paint jobs fail prematurely. We recommend professional pressure cleaning before any painting, even if the roof doesn't look particularly dirty—surface contamination that's invisible to the eye can still prevent proper paint adhesion.
What's the difference between DIY and professional roof cleaning?
Professional cleaning delivers superior results and is safer. Consumer pressure washers typically lack the power for effective cleaning, leading to incomplete results or requiring excessive time on the roof. Our equipment cleans more effectively in less time, reducing the risk of pressure-related damage from prolonged exposure. Professional operators know how to work safely at height and how to handle different roofing materials. We also include inspection, gutter cleaning, and proper debris disposal that DIY approaches often overlook.
How long does a professional roof clean take?
Most residential roof cleans are completed in a single day. A typical house with moderate moss growth takes between four and six hours, including gutter cleaning and site cleanup. Larger properties, heavily affected roofs requiring biocide treatment, or complex roof designs may take longer. We'll provide a time estimate when quoting and keep you informed of progress throughout the day.
Restore Your Roof to Its Best
Don't let years of moss, lichen, and grime continue damaging your roof. Professional cleaning removes harmful growth, improves your home's appearance, and helps your roof last longer. Whether you're preparing for painting, addressing moisture problems, or simply want your roof looking its best, Storm Coat Roofing delivers results.
Contact us today for a free quote on roof cleaning services. We serve homes throughout Gippsland including Traralgon, Morwell, Moe, Warragul, Drouin, Sale, and surrounding areas. Our experienced team, professional equipment, and commitment to thorough workmanship ensure your roof gets the care it deserves.
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