Professional Roof Cleaning in Austin, TX
Remove Black Streaks & Algae • Extend Roof Life • Safe Soft Washing • $0.35/sq ft
⚠️ Don't Pressure Wash Your Roof!
High-pressure washing destroys shingles, voids warranties, and can cost you thousands in premature roof replacement. We use manufacturer-approved soft washing to safely clean your roof without any damage.
Those Black Streaks Are Destroying Your Roof
If you've noticed dark streaks appearing on your Austin roof, you're not alone. Those unsightly black stains aren't just dirt—they're Gloeocapsa magma, a type of algae that's literally eating your shingles. This algae feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles, breaking down the protective granules and shortening your roof's lifespan by 5-10 years.
Live Oak Exterior Cleaning provides professional roof cleaning services throughout Austin, TX using soft washing—the only method recommended by shingle manufacturers. We safely kill algae, remove black streaks, eliminate moss, and restore your roof's appearance without the damage caused by pressure washing.
Austin's climate creates perfect conditions for roof algae. Our high humidity (especially near waterways like Barton Springs and Lady Bird Lake), warm temperatures, and heavy shade from oak trees provide everything Gloeocapsa magma needs to thrive. North-facing roof slopes that rarely see direct sunlight are especially susceptible.
Why Roof Cleaning is Critical in Austin
Your roof is your home's most expensive component—typically costing $15,000-$30,000 to replace. Regular roof cleaning protects this massive investment by:
Prevents Premature Aging
Algae and moss break down shingle granules, causing your 25-year roof to fail in 15-20 years. Cleaning extends roof life dramatically.
Maintains Home Value
A dirty, streaked roof signals neglect to potential buyers and appraisers. Clean roofs maintain property values and improve curb appeal.
Improves Energy Efficiency
Dark algae absorbs heat, making your AC work harder. Clean, reflective shingles reduce cooling costs in Austin's brutal summers.
Prevents Expensive Repairs
Moss lifts shingles and allows water infiltration. Catching this early prevents thousands in water damage and rot repairs.
What Are Those Black Streaks? (Gloeocapsa Magma Explained)
Gloeocapsa magma is a photosynthetic cyanobacteria (often called algae) that colonizes asphalt shingles. Here's what you need to know:
- Food source: It feeds on the limestone filler in your shingles, literally consuming them
- Spreads rapidly: Wind, rain, and animals carry spores from roof to roof throughout Austin neighborhoods
- Black protective layer: The dark color is a UV-protective coating the organism creates, which also absorbs heat
- Moisture retention: Algae colonies hold moisture against your roof, accelerating deterioration
- Progressive damage: The longer it's there, the more damage it causes and the harder it becomes to remove
The good news? Professional soft washing kills Gloeocapsa magma completely and prevents regrowth for 2-4 years.
Moss: An Even Bigger Problem
If you see green, fuzzy growth on your roof (especially in shaded areas or along roof edges), that's moss. Moss is more destructive than algae because:
- Its roots work under shingles, lifting them and creating entry points for water
- It retains massive amounts of moisture, keeping your roof constantly damp
- It accelerates wood rot in your roof deck and sheathing
- It can cause ice dams in the rare Austin freeze
Moss removal requires expert soft washing combined with careful manual removal to avoid shingle damage.
Our Safe Roof Cleaning Process
Live Oak uses manufacturer-approved soft washing exclusively for roof cleaning. Here's our proven process:
Roof Inspection
We inspect your roof from the ground and document shingle condition, algae spread, and any pre-existing damage. Photos provided.
Property Protection
We protect all landscaping, cover AC units, and wet down plants. Gutters are cleared of debris to ensure proper drainage.
Soft Wash Application
Using low-pressure equipment (100-300 PSI), we apply algaecide and cleaning solution evenly across your entire roof.
Dwell Time
Solutions work for 15-20 minutes, killing algae and moss at the root. We never rush—chemistry does the work, not pressure.
Gentle Rinse
Low-pressure rinse removes dead organic matter without disturbing shingles. No granules dislodged, no damage caused.
Moss Removal
If moss is present, we carefully hand-remove it after chemical treatment has killed the roots. Prevents regrowth.
Gutter Cleaning
We clean gutters and downspouts of all debris and dead organic matter to prevent clogs and ensure proper drainage.
Final Rinse & Inspection
We rinse all landscaping and inspect the completed work. Results improve over 1-2 weeks as rain naturally washes away remaining dead algae.
Documentation
We provide before/after photos and documentation for your records and warranty compliance. SecureShield guarantee included.
Why Soft Washing is Superior to Pressure Washing
- No shingle damage: Low pressure means no dislodged shingles, stripped granules, or forced water infiltration
- Kills algae at the source: Chemical treatment kills organisms completely, preventing regrowth for years
- Warranty-safe: Approved by GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and all major manufacturers
- Longer-lasting results: Chemical kill lasts 2-4 years vs. 6-12 months for pressure washing
- Safe for all roof types: Works on composition, architectural, metal, tile, and cedar shake roofs
- No granule loss: Preserves the protective layer that makes your shingles waterproof
- No hidden damage: Pressure washing can cause leaks that don't show up for months
Roofing Materials We Clean
Composition Shingles
Most common in Austin. Safe removal of algae without damaging protective granules.
Architectural Shingles
Higher-end dimensional shingles cleaned safely with appropriate pressure and solutions.
Metal Roofs
Removes oxidation, algae, and dirt while protecting painted or coated finishes.
Tile Roofs
Common in Spanish-style Austin homes. We clean tiles and remove moss from underneath safely.
Cedar Shake
Delicate wood shingles require special solutions and very low pressure to prevent damage.
Flat/Low-Slope
TPO, EPDM, and modified bitumen cleaned without damaging waterproof membrane.
Roof Cleaning Pricing in Austin
Professional Roof Cleaning
$0.35 per square foot
$799 minimum service charge
Typical Austin Roof Cleaning Costs:
- Small Home (1,500 sq ft roof): $799 (minimum applies)
- Medium Home (2,200 sq ft roof): $799 (minimum applies)
- Large Home (2,500 sq ft roof): $875
- Very Large Home (3,500 sq ft roof): $1,225
- Estate Home (5,000+ sq ft roof): $1,750+
💡 Your Investment Includes:
- Soft wash method (no damage to shingles)
- Kills algae, moss, and lichen at the root
- Results last 3-5 years
- Extends roof lifespan by 5-10 years
- Protects manufacturer warranty
- Increases home value and curb appeal
Your Final Price Depends On:
- Roof size: Measured in square feet (roof is typically 1.3-1.8x home size)
- Roof pitch: Steeper roofs require more safety equipment and time
- Number of stories: Two-story homes take longer and require additional safety measures
- Level of growth: Heavy algae or moss takes more solution and time
- Accessibility: Complex roof lines with multiple levels add time
- Roof type: Some materials require specialized solutions
💰 Bundle & Save: Add house washing ($450-$600) or gutter cleaning ($149) to maximize your service visit value.
Want an exact quote? Text or call 512-883-5420 for a free roof assessment.
When to Clean Your Austin Roof
Clean Your Roof When You Notice:
- Black streaks appearing on roof slopes (especially north-facing)
- Green moss growing in shaded areas or along roof edges
- Discoloration or dark patches spreading across shingles
- Your roof looks significantly darker than neighboring clean roofs
- You're planning to sell your home (roof cleaning has high ROI)
Best Times for Roof Cleaning in Austin:
- Spring (March-May): After winter moisture but before brutal summer heat
- Fall (September-November): Before winter and after summer heat stress
- Avoid: Extreme heat (100°F+) makes chemicals evaporate too quickly
- Avoid: Freezing temps (rare in Austin, but chemicals don't work when frozen)
Why Choose Live Oak for Roof Cleaning?
- Soft Washing Specialists: We never pressure wash roofs—only safe, manufacturer-approved soft washing
- Warranty Protection: Our methods won't void your shingle warranty. Documentation provided.
- 5+ Years Austin Experience: We understand local algae types, roof materials, and climate challenges
- Fully Insured: Comprehensive liability coverage including roof-specific insurance
- No Granule Loss: Our low-pressure method preserves shingle integrity
- SecureShield Assurance: 100% satisfaction guarantee—we make it right or refund your money
- Eco-Friendly Solutions: Biodegradable algaecides safe for Austin's watershed
- Free Gutter Cleaning: Included with every roof cleaning service
- Transparent Pricing: Clear quotes, no hidden fees, no surprises
Roof Cleaning Service Areas
Professional roof cleaning throughout the Greater Austin area
Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Cleaning
How much does roof cleaning cost in Austin?
Professional roof cleaning in Austin is priced at $0.35 per square foot with a $799 minimum. Most Austin homes (1,500-2,500 sq ft roofs) typically cost $799-$875. Larger homes (3,500+ sq ft) run $1,225-$1,750+. Pricing depends on roof size, pitch, type, and level of algae or moss growth. We provide free quotes with transparent pricing.
What are the black streaks on my roof?
Those black streaks are Gloeocapsa magma, a type of algae that feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles. This algae is extremely common in Austin due to our humid climate and loves our hot summers. Left untreated, it spreads rapidly across your roof and can shorten your roof's lifespan by 5-10 years.
Will pressure washing damage my roof?
Yes, high-pressure washing can dislodge shingles, strip protective granules, void warranties, and force water under shingles. That's why we use soft washing - a low-pressure method (100-500 PSI) that safely kills algae and moss without any damage. Soft washing is the only roof cleaning method recommended by shingle manufacturers.
How often should I clean my roof in Austin?
Most Austin roofs need cleaning every 2-4 years depending on shade coverage and exposure. Roofs with heavy tree coverage or north-facing slopes may need annual treatment. Regular cleaning extends your roof's life and prevents the need for premature replacement.
Is roof cleaning safe for all shingle types?
Yes, our soft washing method is safe for all roofing materials including composition shingles, architectural shingles, metal roofs, tile roofs, and cedar shakes. We adjust our cleaning solutions and pressure levels based on your specific roof type.
Will roof cleaning void my shingle warranty?
No, soft washing is approved by all major shingle manufacturers and won't void your warranty. In fact, high-pressure washing WILL void most warranties, which is why we exclusively use soft washing for roofs. We can provide documentation of our methods for warranty compliance.
How long does it take for black streaks to disappear after roof cleaning?
The algae dies immediately upon contact with our cleaning solution. Visible results appear within hours as dead algae begins to rinse away. Full results are typically visible within 1-2 weeks as rain naturally washes away remaining dead organic matter. Heavy rain accelerates this process.
Can roof cleaning extend the life of my roof?
Absolutely. Algae