Removing Rust Stains Arounnd Chimney - Certified SoftWash Roof Cleaning

Chris Gunther · Sophmore Member

Removing Rust Stains Arounnd Chimney

Mike Laskowski · SoftWash Systems Pro Staff

I have a customer who has algae staining as well as rust staining on the shingles surrounding his chimney. I read on the board using oxhalic acid as well as other acid base cleaners being discussed. My question was should I treat the algae first and then directly use the acid to clean the rust stains or should I wait to address the rust to avoid any possible chemcial reactions between the basic SH and the acidic rust cleaner. Curious as to how others have tackled this situation. Any insight would be appreciated.

Marcus Raif · Junior Member

The rust remover that I use likes to be applied onto a dry surface for best results. Therefore I always apply the rust remover first. I did that on my first job today.

Mike Laskowski · SoftWash Systems Pro Staff

Thanks for the great tips! Marcus do you rinse after like Chesapeake does? I just get nervous applying bleach to an acid. Chesapeake are you flooding the gutters when you rinse and if so have you noticed more plant damage? Appreciate the advice. Will post pics when im done...its a pretty nasty roof so hopefully the before & after will be dramatic. Although im at least a few weeks away up here in CT. At least ill be ready.

Dan Signor · SoftWash Systems Certified Applicator

Marcus wrote:
The rust remover that I use likes to be applied onto a dry surface for best results. Therefore I always apply the rust remover first. I did that on my first job today.

Marcus which product do you use for removing rust stains from the roof?

Doug Rucker · UAMCC Officer

AmerSafe wrote:
I have a customer who has algae staining as well as rust staining on the shingles surrounding his chimney. I read on the board using oxhalic acid as well as other acid base cleaners being discussed. My question was should I treat the algae first and then directly use the acid to clean the rust stains or should I wait to address the rust to avoid any possible chemcial reactions between the basic SH and the acidic rust cleaner. Curious as to how others have tackled this situation. Any insight would be appreciated.

ON shingles I use either OX or One Restore. I pre wet the roof, and then apply, and rinse quickly. Re apply as needed and rinse quickly within 5-10 seconds each time. Once the rust is gone, I then follow up with soap and water to prevent the white haze that can be left from using an acid product. My goals is to not create a big build up of acid on the shingles, so I rinse repeatedly and reapply.

Marcus Raif · Junior Member

I use Safe Restore by EcoChem. When applied dry you do not need to use as much however I meant to say that at the same time it is applied you must also be applying water onto the foliage below to protect it from any run off. After a light application it is rinsed.

Mike Laskowski · SoftWash Systems Pro Staff

Thanks Doug and Marcus!

Danny Cronauer · SoftWash Systems Certified

I cleaned a deck roof and under the skylight remained a black streak that ran the width of the shingle? It was obviously something with the skylight, do you guys think it was rust?