Soft washing is a modern alternative to power washing that uses specialized cleaning solutions that break down contaminants and debris. This method is gentler on your roof and, as a bonus, eco-friendly. A & J Reliable has been cleaning roofs in Bergen County for years, utilizing only industry-approved, eco-friendly chemicals to ensure the best clean that leaves your roof in perfect condition. Here’s a breakdown of the key chemicals used in soft roof washing and their benefits.
Sodium Hypochlorite (SH)
Sodium hypochlorite is the main active ingredient in roof-cleaning solutions. It is a powerful disinfectant and bleaching agent that kills algae, moss, mold, and mildew at their root level. When mixed with water and surfactants (substances that help cleaning mixtures stay on your roof), sodium hypochlorite dissolves organic growths, ensuring that they are completely removed and have no way to easily regrow and return to plague your roof.
In professional-grade solutions, sodium hypochlorite is diluted to a safe concentration between 3% and 12% to avoid damage to roofing materials. It restores the roof’s appearance without harming shingles, tiles, or other surfaces.
Surfactants (Detergents and Wetting Agents)
Surfactants are added to cleaning mixtures to help the solution better adhere to the roof’s surface. Without surfactants, the cleaning solution would run off the roof too quickly and reduce its effectiveness. The soaps A & J Reliable uses allow the sodium hypochlorite to stay on the roof longer, ensuring deep penetration and maximum cleaning power.
Surfactants also help break down grime, grease, and other non-organic dirt on your roof, making it far easier to rinse them away and provide a deep clean. The professional roof washing solutions A & J Reliable uses are composed of biodegradable and eco-friendly surfactants to minimize negative environmental impact.
Sodium Percarbonate (Oxygen Bleach Alternative)
Sodium percarbonate is an oxygen-based bleach that is very good for removing dirt, algae, and stains while being more environmentally friendly than traditional bleach. Upon contact with water, it releases oxygen, immediately lifting stains and breaking down organic matter.
Though not as powerful as sodium hypochlorite for eliminating deep-set mold or algae, sodium percarbonate is just as effective on delicate surfaces like roofs, where minimizing chemical impact is required.
Water-Based Biodegradable Detergents
Eco-friendly detergents are an essential part of professional soft washing solutions. These biodegradable products effectively loosen debris and organic growth while also ensuring minimal environmental impact.
Algaecides and Fungicides
A & J Reliable adds algaecides and fungicides to roof cleaning solutions to make future algae and mold growth even more unlikely. After they’ve been dissolved to their roots by sodium hypochlorite, these chemicals take things a step further, inhibiting the regrowth of microorganisms and providing long-term protection.
Neutralizers and Plant Protectants
While soft washing is safe, some cleaning solutions pose risks to nearby plants, grass, and landscaping. To counter potential damage, A & J Reliable includes neutralizing agents like sodium metabisulfite and water-based neutralizers in their cleaning solutions, which dilute chemical residue before it ever reaches surrounding vegetation.
To further avoid any unwanted effects, A & J Reliable also pre-wets plants surrounding your roof before beginning the roof soft washing process, and then rinses them thoroughly afterward. While the plant protectants in the roof cleaning solution create a temporary barrier that helps protect vegetation from harm, the pre-wetting and post-cleaning rinse help completely ensure that surrounding plants are left unharmed.
Why Choose A & J Reliable for Soft Roof Washing in Bergen County?
At A & J Reliable, we use professional-grade, eco-friendly cleaning solutions that have been thoughtfully blended to provide effective stain, contaminant, and organism removal while also being as safe as possible for your roof, home, and surrounding environment. Our elite Bergen County roofing team is trained to apply the right chemical concentrations, ensuring maximum cleaning power without causing damage. By choosing A & J Reliable, you’re investing in high-quality roof cleaning that enhances your home’s curb appeal and extends the life of your roof.
If your roof needs professional roof cleaning in Bergen County, contact A & J Reliable today for a free estimate. Our experienced team is ready to restore your roof’s look and protect it for years!
