Domestic & Commercial Roof Cleaning in Somerset

💧 Why Clean Your Roof?

The Best Way to Clean a Roof in Somerset

There are a few different ways to clean a roof — and each has its pros and cons. We’ll assess your roof during our in-person quote and recommend the method that’s safest and most effective for your specific tiles and level of moss.

1. Scrape & Biocide Treatment

This method involves manually scraping off moss with a tool and then applying a biocide solution to kill remaining spores and prevent regrowth.

Pros:

• • Doesn’t require water or chemicals during the initial clean

  • Can be effective at physically removing thick moss in visible layers

Cons:

• Often perceived as the “safest” method, but in reality, metal scraping tools can crack or dislodge brittle or weathered tiles, especially with older roofs
• Scraping is labour-intensive and often more expensive due to the time and care required

We’ve seen more damage caused by scraping than by carefully controlled low-pressure washing — so while we’ll always explain the options, we prefer safer, cleaner alternatives wherever possible.

2. Softwash Chemical Clean & Biocide

This method uses a chemical solution sodium hypochlorite (bleach) to clean the roof, kill organic growth, and lighten staining.

Pros:

• Less physical strain on tiles — ideal for lightly stained or delicate roofs
• Helps reduce discolouration and treats algae and lichen

Cons:

• • Not as effective as a low pressure wash at removing thick moss or stubborn stains.

  • Harsh Chemicals can cause damage to plants, paintwork, or runoff areas. Hard to apply without effecting environment

  • Strong bleach odour for a few hours after application

Softwashing is typically used as a treatment for light organic growth, rather than a full roof restoration. It’s not the best option for heavily moss-covered roofs, but it can help with algae stains or follow-up maintenance after a more thorough clean.

3. Low-Pressure Wash & Biocide (Our Preferred Method When Suitable)

When roof tiles are suitable, we use a low-pressure water wash combined with biocide for instant, visible results.

• We use a flat surface cleaner (not a lance) — it spreads pressure evenly, avoiding damage.
• Water pressure is reduced to a safe level — it’s gentler than scraping, and the only thing that touches the tiles is water.
• We use mobile scaffold towers to clean from the right angle — not from below, which risks forcing water under tiles or dangerously walking on the roof or off a ladder.
• Fewer chemicals needed thanks to the immediate physical cleaning effect.
• Instant visual improvement — great for kerb appeal or prepping for sale.

This method gives you the best of both worlds: a thorough, instant clean without the harsh risks of high pressure washing or scrapers.

💧 What Is Biocide and Why Do We Use It?

Biocide is a professional-grade treatment that targets moss, algae, lichen, and other organic growth at the root level. It’s applied after cleaning to ensure any remaining spores are killed.

• We only use HSE-approved biocides that are safe, effective, and industry compliant
• Biocide continues to work for up to 12 months after application
• It prevents regrowth for 2 to 5 years, depending on roof exposure, location, and surrounding vegetation
• It helps protect your roof long-term, reducing the need for frequent cleans and saving you money over time

This is especially important for homeowners in Somerset, where our damp climate and shaded roofs make moss and algae a constant issue. Regular treatment with HSE-approved biocide ensures your roof stays cleaner for longer — and your property stays protected year-round.

We’ll always explain which method is best for your property during the in-person quote — no guesswork, no risk.