By spending some time scrubbing your roof tiles, you’ll not only improve the curb appeal of your home but also prevent your roof from chipping away due to damaged and fragile tiles.

Dedicating a few hours to roof maintenance every so often will ensure your roof remains performing well, preventing leaks and mildew growth. To help you get the most out of your cleaning regime, we’ve compiled a list of the best methods for cleaning your roof tiles.

So, you can finally say goodbye to a messy and dishevelled roof!

Things to look out for

Maybe you’ve never thought much about it before, but your roof can collect many contaminants over time (after all, it is subjected to all the elements 24/7.)

If left untreated, this buildup of bacteria can cause unsightly stains and impact the longevity of your roof tiles. But it doesn’t just affect the roof tiles; in extreme cases, contaminants on your roof can lead to structural concerns, damaging the integrity of your roof.

Plus, if you use your attic for storage or as a spare room, moss and algae growth can cause the space to overheat. This subsequently leads to high moisture levels and higher energy bills for cooling and ventilation.

To avoid this, look out for the following:

Moss and lichen

Moss develops in the spaces between your tiles and thrives in damp, shaded areas. This can lead to tile erosion, cracking, or lifting and even cause leaks to form in your roof.

Lichen, a fungus that develops alongside algae, can also cause this, as well as discolouring your roof tiles.

How to spot it: Search shaded areas on your roof for green or greyish patches. If left unchecked, moss and lichen can spread, causing further damage.

Algae

Algae are more common in humid areas, appearing as black or green stripes on the surface of your roof. While it doesn’t typically cause any damage to the roof itself, it does cause your tiles to appear dirty and dishevelled.

It also creates the perfect environment for moss and lichen to thrive, shortening the lifespan of your tiles.

How to spot it: Black streaks or green that appear mostly on the north-facing side of roofs.

Debris (leaves, twigs, dirt, bird nests)

Natural conditions like wind and rain will cause leaves, twigs, and dirt to form on your roof (there’s no avoiding it!) Birds may also use your roof as a nesting hatch, leaving you with patches of twigs and sticks.

If not cleaned regularly, this debris can block your roof’s drainage system, causing water to pool and increasing the risk of leaks. A buildup of moisture can also cause moss and algae to form on your tiles.

How to spot: Check along your roof and around the gutters for any signs of debris buildup.

Roof tile sediment (granule loss)

Certain roof tiles, like asphalt shingles, are coated with a layer of granules that protect them from UV rays and weather damage.

However, these granules can wear away as a result of physical damage, ageing, or harsh weather over time. When granules are lost, the roof becomes more susceptible to damage from UV rays, ice, and rain.

How to spot: Your roof may appear dull and worn down, with bare spots on shingles that make them look darker or patchy.

6 best methods for cleaning roof tiles

There isn’t one right way to clean your roof tiles; depending on the amount of time you have to spare and how much TLC your tiles need, any method below will make sure they look spick and span in no time.

1. Soft washing: safe and effective

If your tiles are made from clay, concrete, or slate, then buckle up because this will have them looking brand new in minutes.

Soft washing uses low-pressure water combined with specialised cleaning solutions to gently remove contaminants without damaging the tiles. As it doesn’t use high-pressure water, it’s a go-to for tiles that need a more gentle approach.

How it works: This method uses a solution of water and biodegradable cleaning chemicals that permeate the surface, helping to dislodge moss, algae, and lichen. Once the solution has set, you should remove it by gently rinsing it with low-pressure water.

2. Manual scrubbing: down to the details

While not for everyone, manual scrubbing is ideal for people who are working on a smaller roof or with more intricate damage.

Use it to target specific sections where moss or algae have become a problem (although be prepared for a bit of elbow grease). This way, you can get to work on the stubborn stains that just won’t budge.

How it works: Make sure the tiles are dry so no moss or algae can stick to them. Then, use a roof brush with a long handle to manually scrub the affected areas, removing any moss, lichen, and dirt. It’s best to start at the top of the roof and work your way down so you don't push debris into areas that have already been cleaned.

Side note: This method is perfect for cleaning roof valleys or intricate tile designs.

3. Chemical cleaning: tough and stubborn growth

If nothing else is working, chemical cleaning is always there to get the job done.

Roofs with extensive moss or lichen buildup will probably need help from chemicals to break down the growths; they will sterilise the roof, preventing them from returning. Luckily for you, there are plenty of effective cleaners on the market that can be applied directly to the roof surface to kill and remove organic growths.

How it works: Apply a biodegradable chemical cleaner to the affected areas on your roof, following the package instructions and allowing it to set. The solution will penetrate deep into the roof's surface to eliminate spores and break down moss, algae, and lichen. Once the cleaner has sat for long enough, rinse it off with low-pressure water.

4. Vinegar and water solution: simple DIY

Sometimes, the solution to cleaning your roof tiles lies in the everyday ingredients you keep in your cupboards.

Natural and eco-friendly, creating your own vinegar and water solution is quick, easy, and a great way to save money. Plus, it can do wonders for light algae or dirt buildup.

How it works: In a bucket or spray bottle, mix equal parts water and white vinegar. Then, apply the solution directly to the roof's surface and let it sit for about 30 minutes until it seeps into the tiles. After removing the loose debris and buildup with a brush, give the area a good rinse with low-pressure water.

5. Moss-killer treatments: preventative maintenance

Moss-killer treatments are not just for cleaning—they can also help prevent moss from returning to your roof.

Who doesn’t love the sound of cleaner roof tiles and less maintenance? Moss-killer can ensure that your roof remains moss-free for months or even years.

How it works: Clean your roof of any loose debris and materials, and apply moss-killer treatment to the areas affected by remaining moss spores. Allow the substance to sit on the tiles for the duration suggested by the manufacturer (this is available in both liquid and granular form). Then, simply rinse off gently with water for glistening tiles.

6. Gutter cleaning: better roof drainage

Sure, this method isn’t exactly a cleaning method for the tiles themselves. However, keeping your gutters clean massively impacts the overall health of your roof (don’t say we didn’t warn you).

Unless you want blocked gutters, excess water buildup, and rapidly growing moss and algae on your roof tiles, keep your gutter clean.

How it works: Remove any leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters regularly to ensure proper drainage. From this, any water will be able to flow freely off the roof, preventing it from pooling around tiles, where it can encourage moss and algae growth.

Power-washing roof tiles: good or bad?

When it comes to washing patios and driveways, power washing is a quick and effective method, and many people think it’s good for roof tiles, too.

However, the question remains: is power washing a good choice for your roof, or could it do more harm than good? The quick answer is, unfortunately, no.

Power washing can actually cause more damage to your tiles in the process, resulting in cracking, breaking, and dislodging (especially for clay, slate, or concrete tiles). When done incorrectly, it can also push water underneath the tiles, leading to leaks, mould growth, or wood rot.

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