Looking for roof cleaning for metal roofs in your area? We look at the surface first, choose the right method and pressure for it, and give you a price before any work starts. On metal roofs, the method we use is soft wash.
The right method for the job
Cleaning solution: A mild detergent or soft wash solution suitable for painted metal.
Caring for metal roofs
Painted metal roofs collect dirt, mildew and oxidation chalk. A soft wash cleans them without damaging the coating, and rinsing off salt film matters on coastal homes.
Avoid: High pressure at the seams and fasteners, and abrasive or strongly acidic cleaners that dull the paint.
How often: Every 2-4 years.
When to book roof cleaning for metal roofs
- Black or dark streaks running down the roof
- Green moss or lichen spots, often on the north side
- Roof looks older than it is
- Moss lifting the edges of shingles
- A home inspector or insurer has noted roof growth
Why it gets dirty
- Roof algae (often Gloeocapsa magma) spread by wind
- Shade from trees and the north-facing side staying damp
- Debris piles in valleys that hold moisture
- Moss and lichen that root into the roof surface
Easy upkeep between cleanings
- Keep valleys and gutters clear of leaves and pine needles
- Trim branches to let in sun and air
- Consider zinc or copper strips near the ridge to slow regrowth
- Look from the ground with binoculars instead of climbing on the roof
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Pressure washing strips granules and can void a shingle warranty
- Falls from a slippery, wet roof
- Chemical runoff that burns plants below
- Water forced under shingles and flashing
How we handle roof cleaning for metal roofs
- Check the roof type, pitch and condition from the ground and ladder
- Pre-wet and protect plants and cover sensitive areas
- Apply a soft wash solution suited to the roofing material
- Let it work, then rinse gently or let rain finish the job as recommended
- Rinse gutters, downspouts and plants and check the results
Typical roof cleaning for metal roofs prices
What moves the price:
- Size: square footage of siding, roof or flatwork
- Condition: heavy growth, old stains and peeling finishes take longer
- Access: number of stories, roof pitch, slopes and how close we can park
- Add-ons: sealing, gutter brightening and other services done in the same trip
These are typical U.S. ranges, not a quote. You get an exact price before any work starts. For a quick estimate, try the pressure washing cost calculator.
Other services for metal roofs
Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in your area
We provide roof cleaning for metal roofs across all 50 states, Washington, DC and Puerto Rico. Pick your state to see local details:
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Alabama
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Alaska
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Arizona
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Arkansas
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in California
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Colorado
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Connecticut
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Delaware
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in District of Columbia
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Florida
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Georgia
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Hawaii
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Idaho
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Illinois
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Indiana
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Iowa
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Kansas
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Kentucky
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Louisiana
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Maine
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Maryland
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Massachusetts
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Michigan
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Minnesota
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Mississippi
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Missouri
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Montana
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Nebraska
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Nevada
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in New Hampshire
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in New Jersey
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in New Mexico
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in New York
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in North Carolina
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in North Dakota
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Ohio
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Oklahoma
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Oregon
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Pennsylvania
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Puerto Rico
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Rhode Island
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in South Carolina
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in South Dakota
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Tennessee
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Texas
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Utah
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Vermont
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Virginia
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Washington
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in West Virginia
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Wisconsin
- Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs in Wyoming
Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs: frequently asked questions
How much does roof cleaning for metal roofs cost?
Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs typically costs $400-$1,000 for a typical single-story or two-story home, and usually takes 2-4 hours. The exact price depends on the size and condition, and you get it before any work starts. Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote.
Do you use high pressure for roof cleaning for metal roofs?
For metal roofs: soft wash, typically under 500 PSI. What we avoid: high pressure at the seams and fasteners, and abrasive or strongly acidic cleaners that dull the paint. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is roof cleaning for metal roofs safe for my plants and pets?
We pre-wet plants and lawns, keep cleaning solutions diluted to what the surface needs, and rinse landscaping again when we finish. Keep pets and children inside until surfaces are rinsed and dry.
How often should I schedule roof cleaning for metal roofs?
Every 2-4 years. Shade, nearby trees, humidity and heavy traffic mean more frequent cleaning; sunny, dry spots can go longer. Our free cleaning frequency tool gives a recommendation for your climate.
What if it rains on the day?
Light rain doesn't stop most washing, but heavy rain, high wind, lightning and freezing temperatures do. If the weather isn't right, we reschedule at no charge. Our work is backed by a satisfaction guarantee.