Any suggestions on this metal roof and rock walls - Certified SoftWash Roof Cleaning

Chris Mozick · Junior Member

Any suggestions on this metal roof and rock walls

Tim Teed · SoftWash Systems 5-Star Professional

Keep in mind softwashing is for cleaning and pressure washing is for restoration. I would consider wall restoration and I would use pressure washer for immediate results. and then softwash afterwards.

Chad Eneix · SoftWash Systems Authorized Professional

I agree you will need to pressure wash the stone followed buy a SoftWashing. A hot water unit will help it go faster, but is not absolutely necessary. You could try a turbo tip, but it's likely that will erode the surface too much. I would let the customer know you may uncover damage such as cracks, mortar joint problems, etc. Also expect and be prepared for some erosion, even some pieces falling off, depending on the type of stone. Here, a lot of limestone is used for stuff like this, and it's very soft, and there would definitely be some erosion after the cleaning. Keep in mind though, and inform the customer as well, it's really the only option at this point.

As for the roof, you could also consider the cleaning the first step in a "restoration" process. The second step would be repainting the roof.

Do a test spot on both.

Also, post photos if you get this, those will be some very dramatic before and afters.

Chris Mozick · Junior Member

Thanks guys just waiting on home owners ok.

Troy Layman · Lead Tech

Chris, Don't forget the safety and insurance point of view. These walkways are probably pretty treaterous when wet.

At first I thought I was looking at photo's from Ireland...that's a lot of green!

Brandon Vaughn · SoftWash Systems Pro Staff

This looks like just another day in the office for us up here in the NW. Use a pressure washer and surface cleaner on the walls.

For the roof - spray a good 4% mix on it and tell the customer you need to come back in 30-60 days and go there and rinse. You will have loosen up the moss' hold on the roof, saving yourself (and the roof) from needing high pressure. A good heavy rinse with a booster pump should do the trick at that point.

Personally I use Mosmatic 1" universal-style surface cleaners over nozzles or turbo tips. It prevents blow back from getting in your face and prevents the tips from getting in too close. Here's a old video of one of my guys cleaning a moss infested brick wall with one.

Chris Mozick · Junior Member

Thanks for all your help they didn't want to do the wall but I landed the roof, house and driveway. I'll send pics later guys

AC Lockyer · Administrator

Great point about the blow back Brandon!

AC

Chris Mozick · Junior Member

Aloha guys here is the finished Roof, House, and concrete job. Hope you like.

Troy Layman · Lead Tech

Wow Chris! That roof turned out so well it literally looks like a brand new roof! I bet the customer was thrilled when you were complete.

Chris Mozick · Junior Member

They loved it. Thanks

Brandon Vaughn · SoftWash Systems Pro Staff

Nice work Chris!

Josh Agadoni · SoftWash Systems Authorized Professional

Nicely done, Chris! What did you end up deciding on for your mix and procedure for the roof? Did you have to go back later to rinse?

Chris Mozick · Junior Member

I ran a 4% mix, scrub the sides and rinsed. Customer had copper gutters.

AC Lockyer · Administrator

Yes have to watch those copper gutters!

AC

Bob Riddick · SoftWash Systems 5-Star Professional

Wow! The roof looks brand new! It seems that fungus, mold and moss often times protect the metal surface underneath. I have surprised myself and many customers with similar results as yours. Kind of a feel good moment for everyone!

Thanks for posting those "after" pics, Chris.