Answer: Power wash with a chemical mix
Explanation: The best way to remove algae from a wood shingle roof is to use a non-bleach, oxygen-based cleaner designed specifically for wood, combined with gentle rinsing and proper technique to avoid damaging the shingles.
Here’s how to do it safely and effectively:
Choose the right cleaner: Use an oxygenated wood cleaner (often containing sodium percarbonate), which removes algae without bleaching or harming the wood fibers. Avoid bleach or chlorine—they can dry out the wood and accelerate aging.
Apply with low pressure: Use a pump sprayer or soft-bristle brush to apply the cleaner. Never use a pressure washer—it can split or dislodge the shingles and reduce roof life.
Let the solution soak: Allow it to sit for 15–30 minutes to break down algae and grime.
Gently rinse: Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. Do not blast water upward under the shingles.
Improve ventilation and sunlight: Trim back overhanging trees and ensure proper attic ventilation to reduce moisture buildup and algae regrowth.
Optional: Apply a wood preservative or treatment after cleaning to help protect against future algae, mold, and UV damage.
For Florida’s humid climate, regular maintenance is key. At Honest Abe Roofing Orlando, we offer professional cleaning services and inspections to keep your wood shingle roof healthy and long-lasting. |
| Honest Abe Roofing Orlando |
Answer: Hand scrape and scrub
Explanation: You should not pressure wash a wood shingles roof. |
| KRYPTONITE PRO CLEAN LLC |
Answer: Not sure
Explanation: We have never been presented with a home with a wood shingle roof, but I would imagine it being a similar process. |
| Xtreme Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing, LLC |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: Power wash with a chemical mix
Explanation: Soft wash is the best method |
| IC Cleaning Services |
Answer: Power wash with water only
Explanation: Use water only again any chemicals would cause discoloration |
| T&K Remodelers |
Answer: Hand scrape and scrub
Explanation: The correct answer is not listed. You should use a soft wash cleaning system to kill all algae , mold and mildew with the cleaning solution.
NEVER PRESSURE WASH A ROOF! |
| Jackson Services |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Chemical mix only |
| Just The Right Pressure |
Answer: Power wash with a chemical mix
Explanation: Safety
Working on a roof can be dangerous, and it becomes even more hazardous when wet, so be sure to take adequate safety precautions. Avoid working on steep roofs, wear slip resistant shoes, and use a safety rope where needed. When working with harsh chemicals, be sure to protect your skin and eyes.
Bleach can damage or kill other plants in addition to algae, so wet down any grass, shrubs, or other plants where runoff will occur before and after applying bleach. Covering bushes with plastic after wetting them down helps as well.
Cleaning
It’s best to clean your roof on a cloudy day to prevent the cleaner from evaporating too quickly. If you know the manufacturer of your shingles, contact them or check their website for specific recommendations on cleaning. When using a product made for cleaning roofs or oxygen bleach, follow the directions on the container.
While the recipe for cleaning a roof with bleach can vary, the basic formula is:
1 quart bleach (6% sodium hypochlorite)
1 gallon water
1/4 cup TSP (trisodium phosphate) or other heavy duty cleaner (don’t use a cleaner that contains ammonia or is not recommended for mixing with bleach, as it can result in poisonous chlorine gas) |
| Michael's Roofing |
Answer: Power wash with a chemical mix
Explanation: Use a good quality house wash and a light power rinse |
| RLM Estimating |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: Power wash with a chemical mix
Explanation: A power washer may be carefully used on a wood shingle roof in combination with an algae killing agent. |
| CWAGS LLC |
Answer: Power wash with a chemical mix
Explanation: by a professional pressure washer |
| G M M Property Inspections |
Answer: Hand scrape and scrub
Explanation: Use a bristle scrub brush on a pole and push the brush down the roof to tear the moss's root |
| MRG Painting & Projects |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: Power wash with a chemical mix
Explanation: Low pressure chemical algaecide and surfactant. |
| Sterling House Wash |
Answer: Power wash with water only
Explanation: Chemical can hurt wood |
| Just How It Seams |
Answer: Power wash with a chemical mix
Explanation: Our roof cleaning process involves a LOW PRESSURE application of a specialized mix of detergents that prevent -- infestations from returning for much longer periods of time than other methods . We do not use power washers in the process |
| Spotless Sofwash & Wash Me Fly |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: Power wash with water only
Explanation: Wood is more durable and keep the pressure washer spray to a wider span, but also use a water proofing products to repel growth. |
| Todd Professional Home Inspection Services, LLC |
Answer: Power wash with a chemical mix
Explanation: The proper chemicals and the proper pressure will be the factor in the outcome of the roof clean. |
| Genn-USA Pressure Washing |
Answer: Power wash with a chemical mix
Explanation: Very hazardous work.
It should only be done by a licensed, insured roofing contractor, and done from a man lift. |
| Exterior Systems Roofing |