The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2012 annual report for this blog.
Here’s an excerpt:
600 people reached the top of Mt. Everest in 2012. This blog got about 2,700 views in 2012. If every person who reached the top of Mt. Everest viewed this blog, it would have taken 5 years to get that many views.
Most people seeking a roof cleaning,cedar roof restoration or deck restore do some research on a business before actually calling. Seattle is home to the most tech savvy consumers in the nation. Bellevue is home to many professionals who are accustomed to diligently checking references and using friends and family as their source for home improvement recommendations.
The saying goes that a picture is worth a thousand words so this post will focus on photos taken by 1 of our 3 crews to help serve as a reference to how we clean roofs, restore decks and bring back to life cedar roofing:
DECK RESTORATION BELLEVUE
This deck was covered in algae. It took 3 washes with oxygen bleach and an oxalic acid treatment to restore it.
Here the power of experience comes into play. The use of per-carbonate cleaner before a power-wash was the only way to effectively remove the deep stains. A light coat of sodium hypo helped kill moss.
The final step in a restoration is applying an oxalic acid treatment.
The restoration of this wood deck that had very little maintenance took 4 different chemicals and 6 hours. A dramatic difference from the photo above.
ROOF CLEANING SEATTLE
This roof had moss growth over its entire surface. We manually scrubbed and then applied moss killing and stain inhibiting chemicals.
Composition roofing is an inviting environment for moss growth in Seattle. Make sure to not destroy your roof while having it cleaned! We NEVER use power washing on asphalt/composition roofs.
After manual scrubbing, a moss and stain removing chemical mix was sprayed on this home in Seattle.
Using the soft wash roof cleaning method can clean a composition roof without destroying it. The difference in the pictures couldn’t be any more stark. All our roof cleanings come with a one year no moss warranty.
CEDAR ROOF RESTORATION BELLEVUE
This roof in Bellevue, Washington was restored in a 5 step process. The roof was oiled to prevent cracking and warping during the cold winter months.
Cedar roofs are some of the trickiest projects to undertake for a roof cleaner. Safety and using the right chemicals are serious concerns. The roof above was suffering from severe weathering and the photo above was snapped mid way during the cleaning process.
After a thorough cleaning and acid wash this cedar roof was oiled to prolong the cleaning process.
Oiling a cedar roof deflects the harsh winter months we face in the pacific northwest. Choosing the right products and adhering to a maintenance schedule can lengthen the life of your cedar roof in Bellevue, Washington.
CONCLUSION
Trusting recommendations can go a long way in choosing the right contractor . We hope the photos above served as a reference to what we do. We have serviced over 200 clients in the last year and have many referrals upon request.
The Process of Wood Roof Restoration
Cedar is a great product to have as a roof covering. With a proper maintenance plan, the roof can last many years and even decades. Bellevue, Washington is home to many residences that have cedar as a roof covering. Many of these homes in Bellevue have shake roofs that are 20-40 years old!
Although cedar is durable and requires little attention, a total lack of maintenance can seriously hamper the roofs’ life. Proper maintenance consists of:
Following a basic maintenance plan, can give you the full life cycle of your roofing. It may even prolong the roof way past its life expectancy. There is no method to restore a cedar roof in Bellevue,which has gone long periods of time without maintenance.
Although, your roof may look like it is past the point of a restoration; a safe bet would be to have a contractor give an opinion on whether it is salvageable. If the roofing substrate is not completely damaged and rotted, there is still hope for a cedar roof. The restoration process consists of:
When comparing the cost of a restoration to a having a new roof installed; restoration is also very economical.The cost of a restoration is about 10% of cost of a roof replacement. On average a 2500 square foot home with a cedar roof in Bellevue can be restored for about $2000 plus ridge and shakes. That same size home can cost upwards of $25,000 to have replaced. As you can see the benefits of restoring make a lot of sense. If you have questions on whether your roof is able to be restored or you just don’t like the look of greying, weathered and dirty Cedar roofing, give us a call. We are experts at cedar roof restoration in Bellevue.
We provide cedar roof cleaning and oiling to the following cities:
Alderwood- Ames Lake- Arlington -Auburn- Ballard- Bellevue-Belltown-Bothell-Bridle Trails-Brier-Burien-Covington Crossroads -Des Moines-Edgewood-Edmonds-Everett-Evergreen-Fall City-Federal Way-Ferndale-Granite Falls-Hunts Point-Issaquah-Issaquah Highlands-Juanita-Kenmore-Kent-Kingsgate-Kirkland-La Conner-Lake City-Lake Forest Park-Lake Goodwin-Lake Stevens-Lynnwood Madison Park-Magnolia-Maltby-Maple Valley-Marysville-Medina-Mercer Island-Mill Creek-Monroe-Mountlake Terrace-Mukilteo Newcastle-North Bend-Overlake-Parkland-Puyallup-Rainier Valley-Redmond-Renton-Rose Hill-Sammamish-Sand Point-SeaTac Seattle-Sedro-Woolley-Shoreline-Smokey Point-Snohomish-Snoqualmie-Spanaway-Stanwood-Tacoma-Totem Lake-Tukwila -University Place-White Center-Woodinville-Yarrow Point
Old Weathered Decks can be Restored
Wood deck restoration in Seattle is the process of bringing back the natural appearance to wooden structures such as cedar roofs, cedar decks, gazebos and patio furniture. The climate in Seattle is wet, damp and lacking in sunlight; this leads wooden decks to develop:
Although your wood deck in Seattle may look like it needs replacing, most of the time a restoration can bring it back to life. The process of wood restoration is accomplished using certain tools and chemicals and done in a certain order. The first step would be a survey of the structure to be restored.
The Survey
Before starting any restoration project a survey of the structure must be done. Some common questions asked by wood restoration experts are:
By starting with a good survey it gives both the customer and the restoration expert the opportunity to take the measured steps required in bringing back the wooden structure to its original appearance. Different types of wood require different types of cleaning procedures and chemicals. The woods condition and its current appearance will give the restoration company, a starting point on what needs to be done next.
Chemicals Used in Wood Restoration
Each chemical in the process of wood restoration carries a function. The mixtures for these chemicals can vary widely due to:
Below is a sample table with some common chemicals used in wood restoration. This is not meant as an all inclusive list but as a starting point for what is commonly used in the renovation of wood.
|
Chemical |
Function |
|
Oxygen Bleach |
Draws dirt to it gently, used as a green material. |
|
Citric Acid |
Brightens and restores natural hues. |
|
Sodium Hypochlorite |
Removes top layers of grime, kills moss and lichen. |
|
Trisodium Phosphate |
Removes paint stains and rust. Helps kill moss and lichen. |
|
Oxalic Acid |
Brightens and remove rust stains. Sets an even tone to wood. |
WARNING! The use of these chemicals and their mixtures should only be done by an experienced wood restoration expert. Wrongly mixing chemicals such as Oxalic acid with Oxygen bleach can cause VERY serious injuries. These 2 chemicals cause a reaction that causes noxious gases and when mixed with water can even cause explosions.
The Process
There are steps to properly restoring wood. Certain chemicals are used for each step in the process; wood restoration is also done in a standard order:
1. Cleaning
Depending on what the restoration expert believes is appropriate for cleaning; the deck, gazebo or roof is usually sprayed with a mixture of oxygen bleach or a trisodium/sodium hypochlorite cocktail. This is done to lessen the amount of time it will take to power wash the structure. Power washing by the expert is done with the upmost care to limit the furring of the wood, usually at a PSI of 1000 or lower for wood structures.
2. Brightening:
The process of brightening can be accomplished with either oxalic acid or citric acid or a brightening agent of the restoration experts choosing. This process also helps to neutralize the effects of having used heavy cleaners on wood. It also helps to bring out the woods natural color and grain patterns.
3. Staining, Sealing & Weatherproof
After brightening and neutralizing your deck or roof, a sealer, stain or weatherproofing product should be applied to extend the life of the cleaning and protect the wooden structure from UV rays and rain. The product can vary by the customers or restoration experts’ opinion on the best method for the type of structure. For instance, a cedar roof would receive an oiling while a deck would receive a stain with rain and UV inhibitors.
Appearance and the customers concerns also determine the right product to use. There are many products out there today that contain algae resistant chemicals and coloring to add both protection and improved appearance to the cleaned, brightened and stained wooden deck, roof, gazebo or furniture.
Conclusion
Seattle is home to over 150 days of rain a year. Moss, Lichen and mold are a problem we are constantly battling to control. Decks are an inviting environment for the growth of moss and lichen, and are also victims to the effects of weathering. Proper care and maintenance of wooden structures should be done on a yearly basis. Choosing the right chemicals, tools and procedures can either enhance or ruin a deck. Whether you are considering doing-it-yourself or are seeking a professional for advice you are welcome to call us with any questions or concerns.
Soft Wash Roof Cleaning in Everett, Washington
Different geographical locations require different types of care and maintenance for the home. For those living in the Everett, Washington area, homeowners may benefit from the use of soft wash roof cleaning over the use of harsher power washing methods. Read on to learn more about roof cleaning, Everett, Washington, and roofing companies that offer the soft wash cleaning method.
History Of Everett, Washington
The founding of Everett, Washington dates back to the year 1861 when a small group of settlers began building cabins in an area known as Port Gardner Bay. A few decades later, in 1890, when the Everett Land Company was incorporated, plans were made to form the town called Everett. The area is rich in history and is located 25 miles north of Seattle, with the climate being influenced by marine air masses. This causes the temperatures during the changing seasons in Everett to be less pronounced, than in inland areas.
Soft Wash Roof Cleaning in Everett
The soft washing method of roof cleaning incorporates the use of chemicals, which cause less damage to roofing surfaces than power washing. Roof shingles contain layers of granules which determine approximately how many years the shingles should last. As an example , a roof with a life expectancy of 20 years would contain 20 layers of granules. With every power washing procedure performed on a roof, 3 to 4 years can be taken off the life of the roofing substrate. This makes the soft wash roof cleaning method a more favorable option. Aside from this benefit, the soft wash method will last 2 to 3 years to keep moss and algae away. The softwash method works by eliminating all moss spores from the roof ,which cause moss to grow.
Chemicals used in Soft Wash Roof Cleaning
The soft wash method uses chemicals such as:
Only professional roof cleaners serving Everett, WA should attempt to mix these chemicals. The mixtures require exact quantities and not mixing these ratios correctly can cause damage to the property it is applied to.
Choosing a Local Company
Choosing a local company can benefit your community by keep revenue in the area. We are proud to serve Everett, Washington with its roof cleaning needs. Our company is locally based and has served Western Washington since 2008. In that time we have performed over 60 roof cleanings in Everett. We are here to stay and look forward to many more years serving your community.
Many homeowners have had their roof fall victim to unsightly algae and moss . This is a common occurrence in areas that experience high levels of humidity. Aside from high humidity, algae can also be carried to your roof through airborne spores. Seattle is located in the national danger zone for roof moss and lichen. Fortunately, today’s homeowner has the option to choose algae resistant shingles, also known as AR shingles, to avoid this problem.
The History of Algae Resistant Shingles
Algae resistant shingles date back to the 1980’s when roofing materials were produced that contained alternative kinds of mineral granules, such as:
When AR shingles were first produced in the 1980’s, they were considered to be a premium option in roofing materials. By the 1990’s, algae resistance became a standard option and was available in most brands of shingles.
How Do Algae Resistant Shingles Work?
AR shingles work by using copper that is included in the roofing granules that make up the shingles. The copper is not noticeable to the eye; however, it will keep algae from being able to survive on the surface of your roof. The copper or zinc materials found in AR roofing materials also respond to rain which activate the algae fighting action. Moisture generally works to help promote the growth of algae, but with these special shingles, it helps to further protect the roof.
AR shingles tend to be more expensive initially, but when considering the cost of having to have the algae removed from your roof on a yearly basis, they are well worth the initial investment and will help to protect your roof for many years to come.
How Effective Are Algae Resistant Shingles?
Some brands of algae resistant shingles can help keep your roof free from unwanted moss and algae for up to 20 years. Products containing copper have been reported to be ten times more effective than zinc at keeping algae at bay. The copper is generally time released and will work to resist algae and moss build-up over a long period of time.
It is also important to note that adding some type of copper ridge or hip shingle containing copper will not work on an existing roof system that already has live algae or moss present. It will not kill the algae, but rather works to provide resistance to it before it starts.
No one wants to think of fungus taking over their roof, causing damage as well as ugly staining. In choosing algae resistant products when replacing a roof, you may be spending more money upfront, but for the protection and peace of mind that comes with it, it’s worth it.
Gutter leaks at seams are a common occurrence. A gutter patch at the seam will stop a troublesome leak. Leaks in gutter can cause serious problems to the home by allowing water to get behind:
Here’s what you’ll need to patch your gutter:
Clean All Debris out from the area being patched.
Using a rag, completely dry the area around the leak.
Apply Henrys 208, 6 inches past the leak on each side.
Use your scissors to cut the mesh tape so it fits in the gutter.
Gently press the mesh tape into the Henrys 208.
Using your flexible 2 inch putty knife, apply Henrys 208 to the mesh tape, completely covering it.
You have now repaired the leak at your gutter seams. This method is a long-lasting, quick way to patch leaky gutters. The asphalt covers the leak and the mesh tape stops the asphalt from splitting in hot or cold weather. Although this was not our invention, we have used it with great success, and we hope it works for you too!
Shoes for Walking a Cedar Roof
Korkers are a good tool to add to any roof cleaners arsenal. They are shoes with spikes that grab ahold of extremely slippery cedar shakes. Cedar shakes are like ice when they are wet and its a GUARANTEE that a cleaner will be headed for a long fall without some measure of safety. I would venture to say that walking a cedar roof is nearly impossible even in dry conditions!
In the picture below the wearer of these shoes is walking a roof of 7/12 pitch with no problems. Although korkers are a necessity for safely cleaning cedar roofs they do not take the place of necessary safety devices for fall protection such as:
Roofs that have a porous surface, such as wood and asphalt shingles, have a tendency to develop moss on roof. What can you do to prevent this happening to your roof? If you don’t want to replace the roof, you should clean the entire surface with gentle raking and then treat the roof with a chemical treatment mixed correctly and done by a professional. This sort of care, performed regularly can work very well to remove moss on roof and prevent its return.
If your existing roof is of a material that can be painted, there are types of paint that have a metallic or mineral content that will help deal with the problem of moss on roof. Again, this is a solution that will have to be tended to regularly.
In the long run, the best thing to do to prevent moss on your roof is to start out with a roofing material that is moss resistant. Among moss resistant roofing materials are chemically treated shingles that are algae resistant and metal roofing, such as aluminum sheeting, galvanized steel and copper. In fact, metal roofing is so effective at preventing moss on roof, that the addition of metal strips to the peak of a non-metal roof will help kill off existing roof moss and prevent it from returning.
If you don’t like the idea of metal roofing, you can get specially treated roofing shingles of a variety of types that will help control moss problems. Shingles that are intended to deflect moss on roof are called AR Shingles. The acronym stands for “algae resistant”. This type of shingle material is treated with granules of copper or zinc to retard moss growth. When it comes time to replace your roof, be sure to look for materials with the AR designation to help keep the moss off your roof.
Seattle Gutter Cleaning
Seattle gutter cleaning is a job that needs done at a minimum of one time per year. Homes that have trees that overhang them, should consider performing the chore, twice a year. Here are some serious reasons why a homeowner should consider cleaning their gutters:
For the amount of problems not having your gutters cleaned cause, the price of the service is very inexpensive. Costhelper lists the service at under $225 throughout the nation. The price for a Seattle gutter cleaning as listed by us is:
| Size of Home*denotes: square feet | Stories of Home | Price | Additional Charges* 2 or more stories |
| 1500 SF | 2 | $110 | +$40 |
| 2500 SF | 2 | $149 | +$40 |
| 3000 SF | 2 | $199 | +$40 |
Many homeowners don’t realize how important the chore is and postpone it. Damages can occur rapidly to a home, with overfilled gutters. Areas of the home affected are:
Comparing the price of gutter cleaning to having any of the above repaired, we take a look at some cost comparisons provided by different sources:
| Material | Source | URL Location | Price |
| Drywall | Homewyse | link | Low: $71.50High: $95.22 |
| Foundation | Concretenetwork | link | Low: $250High: $30,000 |
| Siding | Costowl | link | Low: $300High: $1000 |
| Landscape | EPA | link | Low: $3001High: $3249 |
* These are estimates. Prices may vary by length, damage, place and any number of variables.
Having any of the above repaired will be much more costly than the cost of a Seattle gutter cleaning. If you are outside of our area of service, the links below will give you a good idea of what other companies charge throughout the nation.
http://www.costowl.com/home-improvement/gutter-cleaning-cost.html
http://home.costhelper.com/gutter-cleaning.html
http://www.ehow.com/facts_7163833_average-gutter-cleaning-cost.html
We provide gutter cleaning services to the following areas:
Snohomish County:
Arlington, Bothell, Brier, Darrington, Edmonds, Everett, Gold Bar, Granite Falls, Index, Lake Stevens, Lynnwood, Marysville, Mill Creek, Monroe, Mountlake Terrace, Mulkilteo, Snohomish, Stanwood, Sultan, Woodway
King County:
Algona, Auburn, Beaux Arts Village, Bellevue, Black Diamond, Bothell, Burien, Carnation, Clyde Hill, Covington, Des Moines, Duvall, Enumclaw, Federal Way, Hunts Point, Issaquah, Kenmore, Kent, Kirkland, Lake Forest Park, Maple Valley, Medina, Mercer Island, Milton, Newcastle,Normandy Park, North Bend, Pacific, Redmond, Renton, Sammamish, Seatac, Seattle, Shoreline, Skykomish, Tukwila, Woodinville, Yarrow Point
Seattle Roof Cleaning 
