Author: Fred Hoover

Drain Cleaning – How to Get Rid of Clogged Drains and Sewer Lines

Fred Hoover

Many homeowners and business owners try to prevent drain clogs by practicing good habits like running their garbage disposal frequently, using a plunger or putting baking soda and vinegar down the drain. However, if these DIY solutions are unsuccessful, it may be time to call in professional help.

Drain Cleaning

A professional can use a high-powered water jetting machine to thoroughly clean pipes and prevent nearly all types of blockages from returning. Contact Drain Cleaning Perth now!

Fats, oils and grease (known as FOG) build up on the walls of drain pipes and sewer lines if not properly managed. These substances aren’t water-soluble and will cling to the sides of pipes, creating thick blockages over time. The resulting overflow can lead to sewage backups, flooding and expensive repair bills. Regular drain cleaning can eliminate this risk and promote a healthy plumbing system.

When choosing a drain cleaner for grease, it’s important to select one with specific ingredients that will successfully dissolve the substance and promote free passage through the pipe. Avoid those with harsh chemicals that can pose health risks to users and pets, particularly if they are left undiluted or used incorrectly. Instead, opt for a product that is non-toxic and environmentally friendly and safe to use in conjunction with septic systems.

Another great way to help prevent grease clogs is to install and maintain a p-trap in your kitchen sink. This device captures grease and oil, keeping it away from the rest of your plumbing. Make sure to clean this trap regularly, and change the filter if needed.

There are also several types of drain cleaners for grease that work through a chemical reaction. While these can be effective in some situations, they typically don’t resolve severe or recurring clogs and may require professional intervention.

Lastly, there are biological products that can effectively remove FOG and other organic waste. These products contain live bacteria that eat away at the waste and convert it into water and CO2. While these aren’t as effective as a drain cleaner for grease, they are an excellent choice for preventive maintenance and to keep your drains flowing properly.

If you’re tired of dealing with clogged drains, call your local plumber for a thorough and professional drain cleaning service. A good hydro jetting service can clear even the most stubborn clogs and completely scour your pipes of any debris that is lining them. This ensures that your drains are fully functional and can manage wastewater properly, protecting your home’s plumbing and the environment.

Dish Soap

Many people use liquid dish soap to clean dishes, but this helpful product can also help unclog and clean your drains. This is especially true for grease clogs, which can be caused by food residue, hair, soap scum and more. The chemicals in most dish soaps (and other household cleaners) have the power to dissolve these materials, allowing water to flow freely again.

Often, when a sink or bathtub drain becomes clogged with food residue, grease or hair, it’s because these materials have built up over time. These materials can be broken down with the help of a homemade drain cleaner. One of the most popular DIY drain cleaners is a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. To make this homemade drain cleaner, pour half a cup of baking soda down the affected drain. Follow with an equal amount of vinegar. Plug the drain and wait for about 30 minutes. Next, pour down a pot of boiling water to wash away the mixture and clear your drain.

Another DIY drain cleaner is a simple mixture of liquid dish soap and hot water. This mixture can be used for both food residue and grease clogs. To make this mixture, add a few drops of dish soap to a small amount of hot water. Pour this down the clogged drain and leave it to sit for about an hour. After an hour, pour down a second pot of boiling water to rinse the drain.

While many people swear by this method of cleaning a clogged drain, it’s not ideal for all situations. Using this method to break down a completely blocked drain can be dangerous and could cause more damage than it fixes. If the clog is too severe, it might be necessary to use a professional drain cleaning service.

The best dish soap for drain cleaning is typically one that’s biodegradable, hypoallergenic and contains a low percentage of phthalates, parabens and sodium laureth sulfate. It should also be free of added colors, perfumes and dyes. The Thrive Market dish soap that we tested in our labs fit the bill, but it wasn’t as effective as some other brands we’ve tried. It did have a pleasant, light lavender scent, but it didn’t fight grease very well.

Chemical Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners come in liquid and powder forms and use a chemical reaction to break down clogs. They are typically used on more stubborn blockages, such as hair or grease. They contain caustic substances like sodium hydroxide (lye) or potassium hydroxide, which generate heat and break down clogs by dissolving fats, oils and hair. Some also contain oxidizers, such as peroxides or nitrates, that release oxygen into the clog to break down organic materials and clear the pipe walls.

These chemical cleaners often require multiple applications to clear even moderately severe clogs. They can also harm your pipes by creating excessive heat or by breaking down the metal components of your plumbing system. They can also be harmful to the environment, disrupting the microorganisms that naturally break down organic waste in waterways.

Most store-bought chemical cleaners are corrosive to the skin and eyes, and can produce toxic gases when mixed with certain metals. They can also degrade plastic pipes, leaving them vulnerable to leaking and cracking. They can also leave unsightly stains on surfaces like countertops and sinks.

The chemicals in these cleaners also take a long time to degrade in water bodies, and can accumulate to toxic levels in the tissues of aquatic animals. This buildup can interrupt natural food chains and destroy entire ecosystems.

If you have a stubborn clog, try to remove it before using chemical cleaners. If you can’t, call a plumber for assistance.

There are safer alternatives to chemical drain cleaners, such as bio or enzyme-based cleaners. These cleaners use good bacteria and concentrated enzymes to break down clogs naturally without the harmful effects of chemicals. They may not be as fast-acting as chemical cleaners, but they are much safer for your pipes and the environment.

Many clogs are caused by problems deeper in the plumbing system, such as misaligned or broken pipes. These clogs can be harder to address, but they can usually be resolved with the help of a professional. A plumber can also use a drain snake, which is a flat-metal rod with a hook on one end, to loosen and pull out most clogs. For more serious clogs, a video camera can be attached to the snake to see exactly where the clog is located and the best way to remove it.

Plumber’s Snake

A plumber’s snake is a long, flexible metal cable with a spring or auger on one end and a handle on the other. It is used to break up and remove obstructions from drains and piping. It is more effective than chemical cleaners, which may damage pipes and the environment.

A plumbing snake can be purchased at most hardware stores. However, you should first prepare the area to make sure it is safe and easy to work in. It is recommended that you wear rubber gloves to prevent bacteria and debris from getting on your hands. You should also clear the area around the drain so you have enough space to move the snake. It is also a good idea to remove the p-trap (the curved pipe under sinks) before you start snaking.

Once you are ready, slowly feed the snake into the clogged drain. The spring or auger will grab onto any material that is blocking the drain and begin breaking it up. Once the clog has been cleared, simply pull the snake back out of the drain.

Be careful when using the snake and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also thoroughly wash the snake after each use to avoid spreading bacteria or debris to other drains in your home.

Ultimately, the best way to prevent clogged drains is to stop them from happening in the first place. You can do this by reducing the amount of food and fat that goes down the drains, putting food scraps into the garbage, and cleaning out the J- or P-traps under sinks on a regular basis. You can also add strainers to drains and tubs to catch bigger items that could otherwise wash down the drains.

Lastly, it is important to keep water running for at least a minute after you finish washing dishes or taking a shower. This will help reduce the buildup of soap scum, oil, and grease. By following these simple tips, you can reduce the chances of a clogged drain and save yourself from the inconvenience and expense of professional drain cleaning services.

Relax, Renew, Revitalize: The Advantages of Massage

Fred Hoover

Massage is a technique that involves the stroking of the hands rhythmically over skin, increasing blood flow to tissues and aiding the dispersal of waste products. It is usually done with varying degrees of pressure and tempo depending on the client’s needs.

Massage

Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which slows the heart rate and decreases blood pressure, thereby lowering stress levels. It can also help increase your focus and concentration. For professional help, contact Massage Tulsa.

Stress can cause or worsen many physical ailments and one of the best ways to relieve it is through therapeutic massage. Studies have shown that massage reduces the levels of cortisol and vasopressin, hormones which increase during times of anxiety. Massage also stimulates the release of endorphins which are the body’s natural “feel good” chemicals. By reducing these negative hormones and increasing the production of ”happy hormones” such as serotonin, massage helps to decrease feelings of stress and tension while improving elasticity in tissues.

The actual act of receiving a massage is very calming and comforting. This alone can significantly decrease the stress a person is feeling. The touch of a therapist can also help to calm a person’s mind and allow them to focus on their self-care and relaxation. Many people find that their stress levels are drastically reduced after just one session.

It’s important to remember that massage is a regular self-care activity, just like exercising and eating well. Adding massage to your schedule can significantly improve the way you feel, look and simply function far into the future.

When you add massage to your life, not only will it relieve stress but it will help you sleep better at night and increase the energy you have throughout the day. This is because you will have a better night’s sleep with less tension in your muscles, and the toxins in your body will be flushed out making your whole system much more efficient.

Studies have shown that even just 10 minutes of massage or relaxation can activate your body’s built-in system for overcoming stress. This is called the parasympathetic nervous system, or PSNS. This is your body’s natural coping mechanism to deal with stress, and it is activated through massage, exercise, meditation, breathing techniques and self-care. Your therapist can teach you tools and strategies to manage your stress in between massage sessions. This is why it’s so important to work with a therapist you trust and who has your best interest in mind. They can help you develop a plan to make self-care an integral part of your lifestyle.

Relaxes Muscles

Massage relaxes muscles by increasing the temperature of the soft tissues through friction. This is believed to increase capilliarisation and vasodilation which decreases muscle fibre tension. Massage also helps to remove knots and adhesions in the muscle which reduces tightness.

Massage increases the circulation in the muscle tissue which delivers fresh oxygen and nutrients to the cells and carries away waste products. This helps to decrease the time it takes for muscles to recover from a workout or injury and improves muscular performance.

The kneading and manipulations involved in massage work to break up scar tissue and reduce stiffness in the muscles, joints and tendons. It also helps to stretch the muscles both transversely and lengthways, which releases tension and increases flexibility in the muscle. This can help to prevent future injury and aid recovery from existing injuries, as well as reducing pain from the injury itself.

When a muscle is tight it can compress the nerves surrounding it. Massage is thought to relieve this compression and allow the nerves to assume their normal function of transmitting messages to and from the brain. This can help to alleviate headaches caused by muscle tightness and improve sleep patterns as a result of reduced tension and improved relaxation.

Research has shown that massage can reduce the level of inflammation in the muscles after exercise, which may help to reduce muscle soreness. However the exact mechanism for this is not fully understood. It is possible that mechanical pressure applied to the muscles through rubbing produces an immediate change in muscle compliance and reduction in neural excitability (biomechanical mechanisms).

The increased blood flow during massage also feeds the cells with oxygen, which speeds up the recovery process. It can also help to remove waste products of muscle contraction such as lactic acid from the muscle. This helps to decrease the occurrence of delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS, which can occur after intense exercise or a strenuous period of inactivity.

Massage is also thought to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system – your “rest and digest” response – which can cause the muscles and tendons to slow down, your heart rate to decrease and your breathing to deepen. This can be particularly beneficial after a strenuous workout to help speed up the recovery process and allow you to return to activity more quickly.

Reduces Pain

Massage stimulates pressure receptors — nerves under the skin that convey pain-reducing signals to the brain. Moderate pressure is best. Too much and it may feel uncomfortable or cause swelling. Massage may also help reduce pain caused by fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis and other chronic illnesses. Studies have found that patients who receive regular massages experience fewer aches and pains. In one study, people with knee osteoarthritis who received weekly massages showed less pain and improved mobility than those who did not.

The rhythmic kneading and pressing during massage has been shown to trigger physiological changes that provide relief from pain in the body. The brain has gates that transmit pain signals to the rest of the body, and the massage therapy stimulates large nerve fibers to compete with these pain-inhibiting signals, closing the ‘gates’ and reducing the perception of pain.

Many medical settings rely on prescription painkillers for chronic pain, but long-term use of NSAIDs and opioids has been linked to liver failure and addiction. Researchers are exploring more holistic methods to manage pain, including massage.

Research has also found that massage can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety, helping to ease the symptoms of depression and other psychological disorders. It is believed that this effect is due to the way that massage prompts the release of certain hormones in the body, such as serotonin and dopamine.

The heightened blood flow created by massage also enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscles and tissues, improving the function of these cells. This may also decrease muscle and tissue pain, increase the ability to remove waste from tissues, and allow faster recovery after exercise and injury.

There is a need to develop standardized, patient-reported outcomes and implement these as part of the assessment and evaluation of therapeutic massage. This would make it easier to compare massage with other treatments and to document societal cost savings for health care systems. It would also enable the development of clinical practice guidelines for massage and allow massage to be incorporated into healthcare. Finally, it would empower massage to become a tool in the arsenal of pain management tools for clinicians to use with their patients.

Increases Blood Flow

The squeezing and pulling action of massage improves the circulation of blood, which carries oxygen to cells throughout the body and removes waste products. It also encourages the movement of lymph fluid, which carries metabolic waste away from muscles and organs. Massage can help get rid of toxins that have built up in the lungs, digestive system and excretory system.

Blood flow is increased by massage by a process called vasodilation which occurs when the smooth muscle that lines blood vessels relaxes. As a result blood vessels expand and the movement of blood is improved, which leads to an increase in supply of nutrients and other substances to the area being treated.

This increase in supply of nutrients and other substances accelerates an exchange at the cellular level, which helps the muscle to relax and increases the range of motion. It can also lead to an increase in the elasticity of the muscle fibres, which is helpful for posture and flexibility.

However, there are so many variables that control circulation (blood pressure, for example) that it’s a little hard to see how any short, minor input of pressure on soft tissue could have a significant effect on this. There are also some conditions, like claudication where the blood vessels are pinched by other anatomical structures, that massage is unlikely to be able to help with.

In such cases, moving the patient around would be more effective. Even if there is not sufficient mobility to do this, simply relieving the pressure by taking the weight off will likely improve circulation far more than massage could ever do.

Massage can also stimulate the release of histamine, a chemical that increases the permeability of blood vessels, which is known as vasodilation. This is important for maintaining the proper function of the immune system, helping the body to fight infection and reduce inflammation. The squeezing and pushing of massage also stimulates the sweat glands to produce more sweat, which is helpful for the body’s detoxification process. It’s a good idea to drink plenty of water after a massage to help flush out the system.

10 Essential Tips For Choosing The Right Drywall Contractor

Fred Hoover

It is important to consider their experience and expertise when choosing Las Vegas Drywall Contractors. This includes things like how long they have been in the business and what kind of projects they’ve worked on in the past.

It’s also important to ask about their insurance and licensing. It’s a good idea to interview several potential contractors before making a decision.

drywall

Do Your Research

When searching for a drywall contractor, you should do your research to find one who fits your needs and expectations. This means asking for recommendations from friends and family, as well as doing online research for reviews and ratings.

You should also ask potential contractors about their pricing, materials used, and experience. You must understand everything upfront so that there are no surprises down the road.

A good drywall contractor should also be willing to address any issues that arise after the project is finished. This shows that they care about their work and are committed to customer satisfaction. Investing the time to find a reliable and qualified drywall contractor will save you money and headaches in the long run. The results will be beautiful walls and ceilings that enhance your home or business.

Ask for References

When assessing potential drywall contractors, ask for references from past clients. These will provide an opportunity to speak directly with past customers and get an honest appraisal of the contractor’s work.

Be sure to also check out reviews of the contractor online, both on their website and third-party review sites. Look for reviews that emphasize quality work and a clear timeline for project completion.

Also, be sure to find out about the contractor’s licensing and insurance coverage. Doing this will ensure that you are working with an experienced and professional contractor. It will also protect you from any liability issues that may arise during the project.

Get an Estimate

When choosing a drywall contractor, it’s important to get an estimate for the project. Ask each contractor for a written quote that details all costs for materials and labor. Compare quotes carefully to see if there are any significant differences.

Also, make sure the drywall contractor is licensed and insured. Licensing requirements vary by location, so check your local regulations. Insurance is crucial because it protects you from liability in the event of an accident or damage during the project. Also, it’s a good idea to hire contractors who offer a warranty on their work. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your project is in good hands. Lastly, look for a contractor who communicates well. This will ensure that any questions or concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently. This will help keep the project on schedule and within budget.

Schedule an Interview

When interviewing potential drywall contractors, be sure to ask them about their company’s history and work. This is an excellent opportunity to assess their professionalism, expertise, and knowledge. Also, don’t forget to ask about their insurance coverage, bonding, and licensing.

Reputable drywall contractors should be able to provide references and reviews from previous clients. If they can’t, this should be a red flag. Also, be wary of a contractor who promises a timeline that seems too short. Drywall takes time to complete, so a contractor who rushes through the job is likely to give you low-quality results. Make sure to set up a walkthrough before starting the project and after it is finished to ensure that you are satisfied with the results. This will help avoid any future disputes or disagreements. Also, be sure to discuss payment terms and schedules.

Look for a Reputation

You want to be sure you’re hiring a contractor who has a solid reputation. Look for personal referrals from friends or family, as well as online reviews and forums.

A reputable contractor will have a portfolio of past work that they can show you. If they don’t, it’s a red flag.

In addition, you should ask to speak with previous clients so that you can find out about their experience working with the drywall contractor. Positive feedback regarding craftsmanship, timeliness, and professionalism are good indicators of a contractor’s overall quality of work.

You should also be sure to check whether the drywall contractor has workers’ compensation insurance. If they do, this is a sign that they are dependable and a trustworthy professional. It’s also important to ensure that the contract is clear and detailed about payments.

Look for Experience

If you’re looking for a contractor who will be capable of handling your specific project, it’s important to ask about their experience. The more experience they have, the more likely they are to be able to meet your needs and complete the job to your satisfaction.

You should also ask about the materials they use. Make sure they use high-quality products that will last and look beautiful for a long time. You may also want to ask if they have any special expertise, like soundproofing or painting, that will be beneficial for your project.

Additionally, make sure to ask about their work ethic and if they clean up after themselves. This is an important factor, as it will ensure that your home will be left as tidy as it was before the contractor began working.

Look for Insurance

In addition to licensing and experience, drywall contractors should carry appropriate insurance coverage. This includes general liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, commercial auto insurance, and equipment and tool coverage. This coverage protects clients from financial loss in the event of accidents or damage during a project.

Look for a contractor who offers pricing transparency and provides clear, detailed estimates for the project’s scope and costs. Inquire about their warranty and guarantee policy, as this demonstrates a commitment to quality workmanship.

Finally, it’s a good idea to read online reviews to gain a more holistic perspective of each contractor’s strengths and weaknesses. Doing your homework can help you find a reputable drywall contractor that will ensure a stress-free, high-quality construction project. You can also trust your instincts if something feels off. This is a sign that you should keep looking.

Look for a Contract

Whether you’ve received referrals from friends, searched online reviews, or found contractors on social media, it’s important to read their contracts carefully before making a decision. This will help ensure that the scope of work, payment schedules, materials to be used, warranties, and project timelines are clearly defined for both parties.

Evaluate the Contractor’s Communication Skills

Look for a drywall contractor who offers effective and timely responses to your questions. This will help to ensure that your renovation projects progress smoothly and are completed on time.

In addition, it’s also a good idea to ask the contractor about their experience with specialized projects like custom finishes and whether they have a dedicated team of employees or subcontractors. This can help to prevent any unexpected challenges that may arise during the project. Then, you can rest assured that your project will be completed to your satisfaction.

Drywall is a crucial part of any construction or renovation project, and you want to make sure the job is done properly. To avoid hiring a subpar contractor, take the time to do your research and choose an experienced professional. The right contractor will ensure that your drywall project is completed quickly, accurately, and to your satisfaction.

Start your search by asking for recommendations from friends, family, and coworkers. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into a contractor’s work ethic, professionalism, and reliability. Once you have narrowed down your options, consider their licensing requirements, insurance policies, and customer reviews. By following these tips, you’ll be able to find the perfect contractor for your project. Best of all, you’ll know that your home renovation is in good hands from start to finish.

In a nutshell, you want a drywall contractor who genuinely cares about delivering superior results. This means being attentive to your preferences and needs, addressing any reservations promptly, and maintaining transparency throughout the process.

Expertise and Experience

A skilled drywall contractor is well-versed in the complexities of commercial drywall, including issues like soundproofing, insulation, and fire resistance. This understanding is essential to providing a high-quality finished product that meets the necessary safety and regulatory standards.

In addition, experienced contractors know the ins and outs of preparing drywall for painting or wallpapering. This includes properly securing the drywall, blending seams, and eliminating unsightly pop-out screws. This attention to detail is what separates a professional drywall contractor from a DIY amateur. The result is a flawless finish that will stand the test of time. For example, a pro will secure the drywall securely to the studs to avoid sagging over time and prevent cracks.

The Importance of Roof Cleaning

Fred Hoover

Roof Cleaning Summerville SC is the process of removing algae, mold, mildew, lichen, and moss from roofs. It also extends the duration of a roof’s ability to function.

Roof Cleaning

There are several ways to clean a roof, including power washing and chemical treatments. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks.

If you have a roof stains problem, your best bet is to hire a professional who knows the proper washing safe and effective methods. Most importantly a professional roof cleaner should have a soft wash system; that means they use a low pressure rinse to remove the dirt. This will not loosen or damage old brittle shingles. A soft wash will also not spray debris (dirt, leaves etc) into or around your plants or lawn. This type of rinsing is important because it does not force water or chemical through the small holes in the shingle surface. This can weaken the shingle and cause roof leaks later on.

Many shingle roof cleaning contractors mix their own homemade formulas. These haphazard concoctions may contain high strength chlorine bleach, phosphates, assorted detergents, surfactants and odor masking scents. Depending on the mixture and its concentration this chemical could kill your trees, plants, grass or pets. Chlorine bleach also has a very pungent chemical odor that can drift up to blocks away.

A better solution is to use an oxygen bleach and water combination that does not contain any phosphates, detergents or surfactants and is safe for your trees, plants, flowers, pets and children. Our roof washing product, called “Roof Wash” is made from earth-friendly hydrogen peroxide materials and will safely clean your roof shingles without harming the surrounding vegetation. This product is very easy to use and is an ideal choice for homeowners who are not comfortable or physically able to climb a ladder and spray a roof.

It is not possible to spray a whole roof with this solution, but it can be used to treat dark-stained areas or to spot treat the problem areas of a roof before a power wash. This method will still require the homeowner to work on a ladder and be careful not to fall or damage the shingles or nearby vegetation. This method should be used in conjunction with a regular maintenance schedule and the addition of copper strips to the roof’s peak to help prevent the re-growth of moss, mildew and algae.

Spray & Forget

There are several chemical cleaners designed to remove stains from the exterior of homes. These include ammonia, copper sulfate, and trisodium phosphate. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. For instance, ammonia is great for removing mold and mildew, but it isn’t safe for metal roofs. It can also cause damage to surrounding plants and lawns. Copper sulfate, on the other hand, is great for preventing algae and mold from growing, but it can be toxic to children and pets. Trisodium phosphate, on the other hand, is very effective at removing grease stains and residues. However, it isn’t good for moss or other types of plant growth.

A new, concentrated product named Spray & Forget has taken the roof cleaning industry by storm. This environmentally-conscious product is a revolutionary, patent-pending solution that effectively removes black stains from the surfaces of homes. Its non-corrosive formula makes it safer to use than power washing, and it requires only a single application. It’s also safe to use on other surfaces, including brick, stucco, and concrete.

This concentrated product can be applied using a hose or pump. It is recommended to apply it on a day when rain isn’t expected within a few hours afterward. It can also be used on a variety of exterior surfaces, including fences, decking, shutters, and more. It contains no bleach, lye, or acid, and it won’t damage nearby plants or trees. It’s safe to use around children and pets as long as it is applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you’re interested in trying a non-corrosive, easy-to-use product for cleaning your roof and other outdoor surfaces, visit your local Koopman Lumber to purchase Wet and Forget. This innovative product works on all surfaces and requires no rinsing or scrubbing. It’s safe for the environment, and its eco-conscious design minimizes harm to surrounding vegetation. It’s also a healthy alternative to power washing, which can degrade shingles and damage landscaping and vegetation. It’s a smart choice for homeowners that want to keep their homes looking clean and beautiful without hiring professional roof cleaners.

Roof Cleaner

While it’s important to have a regular roof inspection, you should also perform an annual cleaning. Several methods can be used for this, from power washing with high-pressure water to chemical treatments. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, though; different detergents and cleansers offer different levels of cleaning power.

Sodium hypochlorite (pool chlorine) can be used to kill and remove moss, algae and mildew from roof shingles. This is the same kind of bleach that you would use to whiten laundry or scrub a toilet. However, the ARMA recommends using a higher concentration than the household kind to avoid damage to asphalt shingles.

Many contractors will mix their own formulations of bleach with a variety of other chemicals, including phosphates, dish and laundry soaps, surfactants, and odor-masking scents. These haphazard formulas call into question product reliability, stability and safety. They also produce intense chemical odors that can drift blocks away, exposing neighbors to toxic fumes.

Other chemicals, such as calcium chloride, are also available for cleaning a roof. They behave somewhat like sodium hypochlorite, but they leave a white haze on the roof that’s hard to rinse off. In addition, they have a tendency to attack asphalt shingles and may cause them to crack or curl.

A more natural alternative to these cleaners is Wet and Forget, a roof cleaner that’s safe for a range of outdoor surfaces. It’s designed to get rinsed off gradually by rain, dew and other natural processes. This helps prevent damage to the shingles, while also providing a deep clean.

It’s also useful for a range of other outdoor surfaces, such as concrete, patio pavers and wood decks and fences. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners who aren’t interested in a high-pressure wash, but still want to keep their home looking its best and free of mold and mildew growth. It can also help prevent corrosion on metal roofs, and can be applied to a range of roofing materials, including shingle, tile and slate. It’s also easy to apply and safe for a range of pets and children. If you’re unsure of which cleaning method is right for your property, it’s best to talk with a professional.

Professional Roof Cleaning

The roof might not be the first thing homeowners think of when it comes to home maintenance, but it’s an important part of a healthy home. It protects the inside of your home from weather damage, insulating the interior against cold in the winter and heat in the summer. A clean roof is also an attractive feature for a home, adding to its curb appeal. Unfortunately, dirt and moss build-up can discolor a roof, ruining its aesthetic and potentially causing structural damage. Professional cleaning of your roof can remove unsightly moss and algae, restoring its appearance and helping to extend its lifespan.

If you’re thinking of hiring a roof cleaning company to clean your roof, it’s best to find one that uses a soft wash system. Soft wash systems use low-pressure rinsing to remove dirt and debris from the surface of your roof. They’re more gentle than standard pressure washing and won’t damage your shingles or other roofing materials.

Professional roof cleaning companies know how to identify and choose the right cleaning products for your specific roofing material. They’ll also know how often your roof should be cleaned to ensure it doesn’t get overwashed, damaging the integrity of your shingles. A regular roof cleaning can also help prevent the growth of moss and other organic material, which can be harmful to your roof.

Moss and algae can trap moisture on your roof, causing it to deteriorate over time. Unchecked moss growth can even void the manufacturer’s warranty on your roof!

Many roof cleaning contractors will advertise their services using phrases like “no bleach” or “no acidic cleaners.” However, they might not be telling the whole truth. Most roof cleaning companies will use a mixture of high-strength bleach, various phosphates, dish and laundry detergents, surfactants, and odor-masking scents. These haphazard chemical concoctions aren’t suitable for use on your roof, and they can cause severe damage if used on older shingles. They can also damage the surrounding plants, causing them to wither and die. Beware of any roof cleaning contractor that doesn’t disclose their exact cleaning method in writing.