Make washing your house and roof part of your spring cleaning!
By Barbara Allen, Contributing Writer
Northborough – Bob Blanchette is the owner of Northborough-based Roof Washing Services and Stain Prevention.
When do you start washing roofs and houses?
“When winter weather breaks. We’re ready now, but have to wait until there is no chance of freezing, which could cause icy roofs or equipment to freeze,” said Blanchette.
Do homeowners see a difference when you’re done?
“Yes. Customers will come out to see how things are progressing; I can read their lips saying, “Wow!”
“In any business, you must do your best to keep customers satisfied. People are skeptical these days and you can’t blame them. I don’t ask for a deposit, which gives the customer an edge. If they are not satisfied, they can withhold payment.”
Are there roofs that can’t be cleaned?
“Yes. Some roof shingles are too old, brittle, or cupped. There may be way too much lichen on the roof which will cause huge granual loss. After being in the roofing business for over 40 years, I can tell customers what condition their roof is in. Homeowners might want to call me first, before a roofer, should they have any questions about needing a new roof or just a cleaning. Homeowners that are uncertain about black stains on their roof might be talked into a new roof they may not actually need costing thousands of dollars, versus having it cleaned at a fraction of the cost.”
Will the stains return after cleaning?
“Not if you have the preventative sprayed on after a cleaning. It generally costs around $125 and must be done annually, but it eliminates the need to have the roof cleaned again when it returns (and it will return). It’s hard to say how soon you will see it, until it starts to colonize and become visible. The stain-causing elements float in the air searching for a moist shaded area to live, generally on the north side of the house. Chances are if it’s not on the front, it’s on the back. Sometimes it may be on both sides, if trees are shading the whole house.”
Do you ever have special offers?
“Yes. This year customers having their roof or house washed will be entered in a drawing for a 540 square inch three burner char-broil gas grill. There will be one drawing at the end of each month, starting April 30 and continuing through Jjuly 31. Customers will be entered as soon as we start washing. Those not drawn will stay in the drawing until the last drawing in July.
Are you accredited with the Better Business Bureau?
Yes, we have an A+ 5 star rating, the result of giving great service, returning calls, getting estimates done quickly, and being honest.
For more information contact Blanchette at 774-303-1155.