Pressure washers and roofs... that’s a combo I’ve seen go sideways more than once. Had a guy in my neighborhood try it on his old asphalt shingles—looked like he was peeling potatoes up there. Your soft brush approach is honestly the way to go for most folks, especially if you’re not used to walking on a roof (and yeah, those pine needles are like nature’s marbles). I’ve slipped on more than I care to admit. Patience beats power tools in this case, no doubt. And hey, at least your roof doesn’t smell like vinaigrette.
Patience beats power tools in this case, no doubt.
That’s the truth. I’ve seen way too many folks go at it with a pressure washer and end up doing more harm than good—especially on older shingles. The soft brush method takes longer, but it’s way less risky for both you and the roof. Out of curiosity, did you ever try those roof safety harnesses, or do you just stick to a sturdy ladder? I’ve found the harnesses help, but they can be a pain to set up for quick jobs. Either way, sounds like you’re taking the right approach.
Yeah, I’ve definitely learned the hard way that pressure washers and shingles don’t mix—had a neighbor end up with half his granules in the gutters after one “quick clean.” I still use a harness on anything steeper than a 5/12, but for my low-slope garage, I’ll just double-check the ladder’s stable and take it slow. The extra setup for harnesses is annoying, but I figure it beats a trip to urgent care. You’re spot-on about patience being key—slow and steady really does save you headaches later.
The extra setup for harnesses is annoying, but I figure it beats a trip to urgent care.
Totally get where you’re coming from—harnesses are a pain, but I’d rather deal with the hassle than risk a fall. Been there, done that (almost slipped off my shed once, scared me straight). Patience really is everything. I used to rush through jobs just to get them done, but I’ve learned the hard way that slow and steady is the only way to keep both your roof and your pride intact. Good on you for sticking with safety, even when it’s a drag.
Patience really is everything. I used to rush through jobs just to get them done, but I’ve learned the hard way that slow and steady is the only way to keep both your roof and your pride intact.
Couldn’t agree more. I used to think I could just “pop up there” and clear out a few branches or check for loose shingles—until I realized how easy it is to lose your footing, especially on a steep pitch. Harnesses are a hassle, but honestly, the cost of one ER visit would pay for a whole set of safety gear.
One thing I’d add: if you’re doing this yourself, double-check your ladder setup too. I skimped on a stabilizer once and ended up with a bent gutter (and a bruised ego). Not worth the savings.
For me, DIY makes sense because pros in my area charge $300+ just for basic cleanup. But if you’re not comfortable with heights or your roof’s got a weird angle, hiring out might be smarter in the long run. Just depends on what you value more—time, money, or peace of mind.
