Polyvinyl chloride or PVC roofing can last a long time when properly cared for. However, pollution, mold, algae and other contaminants can build up on the roofing membrane, reducing reflectivity and efficiency over time. Routine maintenance helps prevent loss of efficiency.
While commercial PVC roofs should be professionally serviced, some maintenance tasks can be done yourself, such as clearing debris after bad weather and thoroughly cleaning the roof once a year.
This article discusses how to safely and effectively clean PVC roofing. We’ll start with the equipment you’ll need.
Table of Contents
PVC Roof Maintenance Ensure You Have the Right Tools
To clean a well-maintained or relatively new PVC roof, you will need a 5-gallon bucket, a soft sponge, lukewarm water, and a mild detergent.
You can also use:
•Petroleum ether
•Isopropyl alcohol
•VM&P naphtha
•Methyl alcohol
•Butyl alcohol
•Ethyl alcohol
•Heptane
•Hexane
•Biodegradable cleaners like Brillianize, Klear to Sea or Simple Green
You’ll also need a soft bristle broom or shovel to remove debris and standing water.
Follow These General Cleaning Practices
Always remove debris from the roof before cleaning it.
Avoid using abrasive or alkaline cleaners as they may cause damage or cloudiness to the PVC.
For hard-to-reach areas, use an extension pole with a sponge attachment to scrub inaccessible spots without walking on the roof.
After gently sponging the roof, rinse it with cold water and allow it to air dry.
Only Use a Power Washer When Necessary
While a power washer can be an efficient way to clean a PVC roof, certain precautions should be taken to avoid damage.
Keep the output pressure between 1500 and 2000 PSI to prevent gouging or scarring of the membranes.
Use a spray tip with no more than a 30-degree arc to avoid damaging the membrane.
Be mindful of the angle and distance between the spray wand and the membrane. Never spray upwards from the ground; instead, spray downwards while on the roof.
Check the warranty details of your PVC roof before using a power washer. The manufacturer may have specific instructions or recommend professional cleaning services to maintain warranty coverage.
PVC Roof Maintenance General Safety Tips
Working on a roof requires careful attention to safety. Keep the following practices in mind:
- Avoid walking on surfaces with cleaning solutions as they can be slippery. If necessary, wear shoes with good traction and test each area before applying weight.
- Wear a white hat and long-sleeve shirt for protection against UV rays when working in sunny conditions.
- Protect your eyes with safety glasses from the cleaning solution.
- Use dishwashing gloves to keep your hands away from the cleaner.
- Have a spotter assist you when climbing or descending a ladder.
- Stand on flat, dry areas of the roof whenever possible.
- Wear appropriate protective clothing in case of slips or falls.
Additionally, make sure that any runoff from the roof cleaning process does not harm nearby plant life, particularly when using chemical-based cleaners. Always refer to your material warranty for guidance on professional cleaning services to avoid voiding coverage.
Is PVC the Suitable Choice for Me?
PVC roofing offers a viable solution for individuals who desire a roofing material that encompasses toughness, energy conservation, and minimal upkeep. Due to its exceptional durability, energy-saving attributes, and adaptability in different building structures, PVC roofing has established its value in the roofing sector. Although there might be potential drawbacks in terms of initial expenses and temperature sensitivity, the advantages, in the long run, can outweigh these concerns based on personal preferences.
How frequently you should clean your PVC roof?
If you have a routine maintenance schedule to remove debris from your roof regularly and if you clean your roof annually, you may not need to use any cleaning products at all water alone could be sufficient to get all the benefits of a clean PVC roof. However, if your roof is prone to dirt and dust buildup or severe environmental pollutants due to its location, you may need to use a cleanser each time or clean more often with just water. The steepness and drainage of your roof also affect how quickly a roof gets dirty, how often you need to clean it, and what you use to clean a PVC commercial roof.
I come from an extensive family of construction professionals and have been around it most of my life. Early in my home renovation career, I remodeled several homes as well as built custom homes and additions.
Although this was a great experience, I decided to specialize in roofing and gutter systems because I enjoy interacting with customers and seeing their satisfaction when the job is done.