How Much Does Roof Cleaning Cost? (2024 Guide)
Typical Cost Range: $0.20 – $0.70 per square foot
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You may not think about cleaning your roof often, but it’s an important occasional task. Not only will your roof look better without black streaks or visible debris, but you’ll also help the roofing materials last longer by keeping them clean. We’ve broken down the types of cleaning services available, which roof types they’re best for, and how much each method costs. Expect to pay $300-$1,500 to clean a 1,500-square-foot roof depending on the roofing material and the method used to clean it.
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What Are Signs That You Need to Clean Your Roof?
Most of the time, you’ll be able to tell whether your roof needs cleaning simply by noticing any of these signs from ground level.
What Is The Average Cost of Roof Cleaning?
Roof cleaning costs an average of $0.20–$0.70 per square foot. That means a 1,500-square-foot roof will cost between $300 and $1,050 to clean. The following factors impact where your project will fall within that range.
- Roof size: Larger roofs cost more to clean.
- Cleaning method: Cleaning methods that take longer or require specialty products or equipment will cost more.
- Roof type: Some roofing materials are easier to clean than others. Roofs with a lower pitch also cost less.
- Number of stories: The more stories your home has, the more it will cost to clean. This is because your roof is more difficult to reach.
- Labor: The majority of professional roof cleaning costs are labor and insurance.
Roof Cleaning Cost by Roof Size
Most professional roof cleaners charge by square foot. This means the final price will be directly proportional to your roof size. Depending on the cleaning method, the project may cost anywhere from $0.05–$0.75 per square foot. Note that your roof size will be slightly larger than your home’s square footage due to overhangs and roof pitch.
| Roof Size in Square Feet | Cost Range |
|---|---|
|
1,000 |
$50–$750 |
|
1,500 |
$75–$1,125 |
|
2,000 |
$100–$1,500 |
|
2,200 |
$110–$1,650 |
|
2,500 |
$125–$1,875 |
|
3,000 |
$150–$2,250 |
Cost by Cleaning Method
The cleaning method is an important price factor as well. The below prices include labor and materials for a professional roof cleaning job.
| Cleaning Method | Price per Square Foot |
|---|---|
|
Blower cleaning |
$0.05–$0.10 |
|
Chemical wash |
$0.20–$0.30 |
|
High-pressure wash |
$0.20–$0.60 |
|
Low-pressure wash |
$0.30–$0.70 |
|
Soft wash |
$0.30–$0.75 |
Cost by Roof Type
The material on the surface of your roof will likely determine which cleaning method is best. Materials that need the most care will cost the most to clean.
| Roofing Material | Recommended Cleaning Method | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
|
Asphalt shingles |
Soft wash |
$0.30–$0.75 |
|
Clay tiles |
Soft wash |
$0.30–$0.75 |
|
Concrete tiles |
Soft wash |
$0.30–$0.75 |
|
Metal tiles/panels |
High-pressure wash |
$0.20–$0.60 |
|
Rubber |
Chemical wash |
$0.20–$0.30 |
|
Slate shingles/tiles |
Low-pressure wash |
$0.30–$0.70 |
|
Tar and gravel |
Chemical wash |
$0.20–$0.30 |
|
Wood shakes/shingles |
Low-pressure wash |
$0.30–$0.70 |
Roof dimensions or features that make it more time-consuming to clean may also raise the price. For example, steep roofs may require cleaners to use extra safety equipment, which will cost up to $0.15 more per square foot.
Cost by Stories
Houses with more than one story often cost more to clean because of the extra safety equipment and precautions needed. You’ll often be charged $0.10 more per square foot for each additional story.
| Number of Stories | Price Range per Square Foot |
|---|---|
|
1 |
$0.05–$0.75 |
|
2 |
$0.15–$0.85 |
|
3 |
$0.25–$0.95 |
Labor Cost
The roof cleaning prices above all apply to professional cleaning jobs. Labor costs make up the bulk of the price. Though most professionals charge by roof size, some may charge per hour, usually $17–$36.
What Are Additional Service Costs and Considerations?
Many roof cleaning companies offer extra services on top of a basic cleaning package. If you want a particular additional service, ask whether your roof cleaning company provides it. Some roof cleaning companies are also roofers and vice versa.
| Service | Price Range |
|---|---|
|
Gutter cleaning |
$0.70–$1.30 per linear foot |
|
Moss removal |
$0.20–$0.70 per square foot |
|
Moss prevention |
$150–$250 |
|
Roof repairs |
$300–$1,500 |
|
Silicone sealant |
$1–$5 per square foot |
|
Solar panel cleaning |
$150–$350 |
|
Stain removal |
$50–$100 |
|
Stain prevention |
$20–$30 per gallon |
|
Zinc oxide treatment |
$0.05–$0.15 per square foot |
Other coatings can increase your roof’s efficiency and life span. For example, silicone sealant prevents water damage and improves energy efficiency. It costs $1–$5 per square foot.
What Are Roof Cleaning Pros and Cons?
The average roof needs to be cleaned about once a year. This process obviously keeps your home looking great, but it can also preserve your roofing material. Growths such as algae, mold, and moss can weaken and erode your roof’s surface, paving the way for future leaks. Dirt and debris can prevent proper drainage around valleys and flashing, potentially causing water to pool on the roof and cause damage.
The major drawback to roof cleaning is the price, particularly if you have a large home, a steep roof, or multiple stories. Additionally, cleaning too aggressively can cause damage, strip granules off shingles, and potentially crack roof tiles. You may also risk voiding your roof’s warranty.
How Does Roof Cleaning Work?
You can clean your roof yourself or hire professionals. Either way, you’ll usually need to use a leaf blower to remove loose debris before performing a deeper clean. Depending on your roofing material and the level of grime, you may need to use low to moderate water pressure and cleaning products to remove streaks, growths, and stains. You may also need to go in afterward with a brush to treat stubborn stains.
Should You Professional vs. DIY Roof Cleaning?
You can clean your roof yourself if you know the risks and take proper safety precautions. However, it’s a messy and time-consuming job, so many homeowners opt to hire professionals. Here’s what you can expect from both options.
Professional Roof Cleaning
Homeowners with particularly steep roofs or multiple stories are better off hiring a professional roof cleaning service. Pros have access to better equipment and stronger cleaning products, and they’ll know how to get the job done quickly and thoroughly. They’ll also know how to tackle specialty problems such as salt buildup or algae stains.
Make sure any roof cleaner you hire is licensed and get copies of liability and workers‘ compensation insurance before signing a contract.
DIY Roof Cleaning
You can save money on roof cleaning by doing it yourself—as long as you do it right. This includes taking the appropriate safety measures to work on a roof and using methods that won’t cause damage. Renting a pressure washer will cost $25–$50 for the day, but make sure you know how to use a low-pressure setting. Cleaning solutions and other tools will cost another $40–$50 for a 1,500-square-foot roof.
Keep in mind that a damp roof is slippery and take precautions before cleaning one. Work on roofs can be very dangerous, especially for those without prior experience.
How To Save on Roof Cleaning
Here are some ways to save on roof cleaning, whether you do the job yourself or hire a pro.
- If you hire professionals, look for seasonal or package deals. You may also get a discount by signing up for a regular (e.g., annual) cleaning.
- Roofing facts and statistics show that cleaning regularly to prevent grime buildup will make each cleaning easier and less expensive.
- If you’re doing the job yourself, research how to measure a roof for shingles and the appropriate cleaning methods for your roof type to avoid causing costly damage.
- Look into treatments and sealants that may reduce how often you need to clean.
Who Are the Top Roofing Companies In Your Area?
If your roof cleaner discovers damage or you need additional roof services, find reputable roofing companies in your area using our guides below.
Our Conclusion
You can clean your roof yourself if you take safety precautions and use the right methods. Simply blasting your roof with a high-pressure power washer is never the right choice. If you don’t have the time or desire to do it, hire a professional roof cleaning service or roofer to do the job. Either way, having a clean roof improves the look of your home and extends your roof’s longevity.
All homeowners should have their roofs inspected every two to three years by a roofer for damage and issues, and this is the time to learn if you need a roof cleaning. Some roofing companies offer cleaning and gutter services, so you can combine the services into one trip.
FAQ About Roof Cleaning
Is it worth it to clean your roof?
Yes, it’s worth it to clean your roof. Moss, algae, and debris can damage or erode your roof shingles and tiles. Keeping them clean preserves your roof’s life span and keeps it structurally sound.
How do I know when my roof needs cleaning?
Here are some signs your roof needs to be cleaned.
- Black streaks
- Bird feces
- Discoloration of shingles or tiles
- Lifted or peeling shingles
- Visible moss or mold growth
What are the benefits of cleaning a roof?
Here are the benefits you’ll get from a clean roof.
- Better protection from water damage
- Increased curb appeal
- Longer life span of roofing materials
- Reduced risk of pest infestation
What is the average cost of a roof cleaning service?
Roof cleaning can cost anywhere from $0.05–$0.75 per square foot, though most cleanings cost an average of $0.20–$0.70 per square foot.
How do I find a reputable roof cleaning company?
Ask friends, family, and neighbors if they have any recommendations. Additionally, check the Better Business Bureau’s website for well-rated roof cleaners in your ZIP code.
Find Roofing Professionals in Your City
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