Insurance Companies Requiring Homeowners to Clean Their Roofs

Insurance companies are increasingly requiring homeowners to clean their roofs as a condition of maintaining their homeowners insurance policy.

Jamie Schmidt, from Greenway Pressure Washing in Cherry Hill, in Cherry Hill New Jersey, says he has seen an huge uptick in roof cleaning request recently due to this trend.

"We're getting more and more calls from homeowners who have been told by their insurance companies that they need to clean their roofs or their policies will be cancelled," Schmidt said.

Schmidt says that homeowners should be careful when hiring a roof cleaning company. Some companies use pressure washers to clean roofs, which can damage the shingles and shorten the life of the roof.

"It's important to hire a company that uses a soft wash method," Schmidt said. "This method uses a solution to clean the roof without damaging it."

Schmidt also says that it is important to choose a company that follows the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) guidelines for roof cleaning.

"The ARMA guidelines are designed to protect your roof and ensure that it is cleaned properly," Schmidt said.

Why are insurance companies requiring homeowners to clean their roofs?

Insurance companies are requiring homeowners to clean their roofs because algae and moss can damage the shingles.

Algae feed on the limestone filler used to give the shingles weight. Over time, as the filler is eaten away, the granules protecting the surface of the shingle lose their hold and begin to wash off. This leaves the shingles vulnerable to damage from the elements, such as wind, rain, and hail.

Moss and lichens also love growing on roofs. Lichens evolve from the algae. They act like sponges, keeping the roof damp and causing even more growth. Roof moss and lichens anchor their “roots” into your shingles and remove granules. In addition, their roots can fracture shingles or expose edges. Moss and lichens cause shingles to fail many years sooner than they should.

What should homeowners do if they need to clean their roofs?

If you need to clean your roof, the best thing to do is to hire a reputable roof cleaning company. A good roof cleaning company will use a soft wash method to clean your roof without damaging it and will follow the ARMA guidelines.

Here are some tips for hiring a roof cleaning company:

• Ask about the company's experience and qualifications.

• Make sure the company is licensed and insured.

• Ask about the company's cleaning process and make sure they follow the ARMA guidelines.

• Get everything in writing, including the price, the services to be provided, and the warranty.

What should homeowners do if their insurance company requires them to clean their roofs?

If your insurance company requires you to clean your roof, you should comply with their request. If you do not clean your roof, your insurance company may cancel your policy or refuse to renew it.

If you are unable to afford to clean your roof, you may be able to work with your insurance company to find a solution.

Insurance companies are increasingly requiring homeowners to clean their roofs because algae and moss can damage the shingles. If you need to clean your roof, be sure to hire a reputable roof cleaning company that uses a soft wash method and follows the ARMA guidelines. Greenway Pressure Washing follows the ARMA guidelines and is a good choice for roof cleaning services.

If you are in need of a roof cleaning, reach out to Greenway for a free estimate at 856-512-0008 or visit www.greenwaysj.com.