When cleaning a slate roof don t use chemicals like ammonia or chlorine bleach.
Slate roof cleaning chemicals.
Such harsh chemicals are incompatible with the copper.
It is a proven chemical that is non corrosive and biodegradable.
One of the most gentle yet effective ways to remove roof moss and clean the roof is by way of scraping.
This gives your roof an ugly look and it is bad for the state of the roof as well.
While you might be tempted to reach for a strong chemical or a pressure washer it s better to leave them behind and give your slate roof a little tender loving care.
Buildup of moss and debris on slate roofs hold moisture in the slates that can split them during winter.
Debris and moss buildup hold moisture in the slates that can split them during winter freezes.
The goal when cleaning a slate roof is to soften and loosen the undesirable buildup.
Small amounts of dirt are usually not a problem as opposed to when large parts of the roof are covered with moss.
Both artificial slates and natural slates have to deal with moss and pollution in the long run.
Regular cleaning is an important part of keeping a slate roof in working order.
Roof cleaning by using the correct chemicals.
Bleach or sodium hydroxide lye which can destroy all perimeter vegetation burn your skin and eyes and potentially degrade your asphalt shingle performance.
A normal 9 trowel is suitable if your roofing contractor chooses a dry day any moss will flake off the roof much easier and there won t be any scratch marks on the tiles.