Northborough company makes roofs look new again
By Nancy Brumback, Contributing Writer
Business name: Roof Washing Services and Stain Prevention
Address: Northborough
Owner: Bob Blanchette
Contact Information: 774-303-1155
What services does your company provide?
As the name indicates, Roof Washing Services and Stain Prevention can remove dirt, algae and lichens from the roof of most homes, restoring a clean, fresh look, noted Bob Blanchette, owner of the Northborough-based company.
“Another roof cleaning season is days away, and I am anxiously waiting to get back to making stained roofs look new again, saving homeowners thousands of dollars for a new roof they may not need,” he said.
Will roof cleaning damage a roof?
“I’ve been asked this question many times. My honest answer is no, not the way I do it. The damage has already started with the algae, lichen and moss eating the roof. The longer that situation goes untreated, the more damage it will cause, then a home will need a new roof.”
Are there different ways to clean roofs?
“The cleaning method I use is using eco-friendly, using bio-degradable products that do not contain toxic chemicals such as chlorine bleach, phosphates, or other chemicals that can kill vegetation and pollute ponds and waterways,” Blanchette said.
“My method uses low-pressure rinsing. I do use a pressure washer, but with a soft tip. I can put my hand in front of the spray at the same distance I hold it from the shingles.
“There are other methods to clean a roof that I choose not to use. Chlorine bleach is less expensive, but it has a strong chemical odor and the results may not be instant. Bleach can pose harm to people and pets exposed to the fumes or fluids. Chlorine bleach can cause permanent damage to plants, trees, grass and shrubs, and can leak into fish ponds, waterways and watershed areas. Bleach can also cause damage to siding, trim and windows.
“Some contractors also use a high-pressure power washing method. I do not see any benefits in this method, and it can damage roof shingles. It is also not an effective way to kill and remove moss root systems.”
How much does it cost to clean a roof?
“The average cost is around $575. The actual cost depends on several things, including the style and pitch of the roof, whether the house is one or two stories, and whether one or both sides of the roof need cleaning. Most roofs have stains, moss and/or lichen on one side, the north-facing side.
Roof Washing Services offers a free demonstration for homeowners, cleaning a four-foot-square patch of roof to show the difference roof cleaning will make.
“I also offer an annual roof stain removal program that keeps the moss and algae from reoccurring for an average cost of $125,” Blanchette said.
Why should roofs be cleaned by a professional?
“Some customers think they need a new roof and find it just needs cleaning. About 90% of homeowners do not even realize their roofs can be cleaned. When people are selling their home, it improves curb appeal. People may need to have the roof cleaned before installing solar panels.
“There are products homeowners can purchase to clean roofs, but after you spray it on the roof, it will turn brown. You have to wait for three or four months of rainfall for the results. I get results the same day.”
Roof Washing Services operates throughout the greater Metrowest area. It is accredited by the Better Business Bureau.