DIY Roof Cleaning: Is It Worth the Risk or Should You Call a Pro?

We get it — you’re handy, you’ve got a ladder, and you’re not afraid of a little hard work. But when it comes to cleaning your own roof, especially here in Florida’s Treasure Coast, the question isn’t just can you do it…it’s should you?

Before you get all DIY mode, let’s walk through the real risks, common mistakes, and when it’s smarter (and safer) to call in the pros.

⚠️ What Makes Roof Cleaning Dangerous?

Florida roofs come with their own unique hazards:

• Tile and shingle surfaces get slick fast
• Mold, mildew, and algae grow like crazy in our humid climate
• Steep pitch + slick surface = potential trip to the ER

Even if you’ve got good balance, roof cleaning requires more than just a hose and guts. Many homeowners don’t realize that:

• Improper cleaning can void your roof warranty
• High-pressure washing can crack tiles or dislodge shingles
• Bleach-based cleaners can kill your landscaping

🚑 Spoiler: “Florida man falls off roof while cleaning it himself” is not the headline you want.

🧽 The Right Way to Clean Your Roof

Professional roof cleaning (done right) typically uses a soft washing method — not pressure washing.

Here’s why:

• Low-pressure rinse (under 100 PSI)
• Uses eco-friendly, biodegradable cleaning solutions
• Specifically targets organic growth like algae, mold, and lichen
• Protects your roof and surrounding landscaping

💡 Bonus: Soft washing not only cleans the surface, but also helps prevent regrowth for 6–12 months.

DIY Roof Cleaning: What You Need (and What to Watch Out For)

If you’re still thinking of tackling this yourself, here’s what you’ll need:

• Sturdy extension ladder with stabilizer arms
• Safety harness & non-slip shoes
• Low-pressure sprayer (not a pressure washer)
• Roof-safe cleaner (avoid bleach-heavy mixes)
• Garden hose for rinsing
• Patience and a good weather window
• You may also consider cleaning your pavers while you're at it

What to avoid:

• Walking directly on hot tiles (they can crack!)
• Spraying under shingles or tile lips
• Mixing your own bleach solution without understanding ratios
• Cleaning without a buddy to spot you

👎 Most Common DIY Mistakes

1. Using too much pressure

• This leads to cracked tiles, lifted shingles, or granule loss on asphalt roofs.

2. Killing your plants

• Overspray from bleach-heavy products can damage grass, shrubs, and flowerbeds.

3. Skipping safety gear

• Falling off a ladder is the #1 home improvement injury in the U.S. Don’t risk it.

4. Not letting the cleaner dwell

• Roof cleaners need time to kill algae — don’t rinse too early or you’ll waste your effort.

5. Over-cleaning

• Too-frequent cleanings can degrade your roof. Once every 12–24 months is usually enough.

So…Should You DIY?

Let’s break it down with a quick pros and cons list:

🌴 Florida Roofs Need Special Care

In places like Port St. Lucie, Stuart, and Jupiter, the combination of salt air, sun, and moisture means roofs get dirtier faster. Even new homes can start showing dark streaks within 12–18 months.

If your HOA is breathing down your neck or you’re tired of looking at black algae streaks, it might be time for a pro clean — no risk, no sweat, just results.

📍 Know When to Contact A Buff & Beyond Pressure Washing

We clean all types of Florida roofing materials:

• Tile
• Asphalt shingles
• Metal
• Flat roofs
• Specialty stone or clay finishes

Our team uses soft washing methods with eco-friendly products that are safe for your roof and the environment.

Want it to look like new again — and stay that way? We’ve got you.