THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO PROFESSIONAL ROOF CLEANING

Many homeowners consider painting their roof when they notice it is covered in mould and lichen, or when it starts to look tired or patchy—but painting isn’t always the best solution. In most cases, a professional clean will dramatically restore the appearance of your roof without the cost, disruption, or long-term maintenance that comes with painting. 

Painting a roof can cost several times more than cleaning, depending on the size, material, and preparation involved. A professional clean not only costs less—it also addresses the underlying causes of the unsightly appearance by removing built-up grime, mould, lichen, and stains that dull your roof’s natural finish.

That said, the quality of both cleaning and painting services can vary significantly. Lower-cost providers may cut corners or use inappropriate methods, resulting in subpar results and potential long-term damage. As with most home services, choosing an experienced, reputable provider ensures your investment delivers lasting results.

Cleaning reveals the original surface of the roof—whether that’s Colorbond sheeting or tiles. Painting, on the other hand, covers the surface with a coating that will inevitably fade or peel over time, especially under Australia’s strong sun and heavy rain.

Once painted, a roof typically needs to be repainted every 5 to 7 years to maintain its finish and appearance. Unlike cleaning, which removes the problem, painting conceals it temporarily. As the coating deteriorates, it becomes more obvious that the surface is “painted,” and touch-ups are rarely enough to restore uniformity.

Once a roof is painted, the only way to avoid expensive and ongoing repainting cycles is to replace the roof entirely—a considerably more expensive and disruptive project. Cleaning, by contrast, preserves the original material and restores the original look of the roof.

There are situations where painting may be appropriate—for example, if your concrete tiles are heavily weathered and the original colour has broken down, or if you’re looking to modernise an outdated tone as part of a larger renovation. In those cases, painting is a cosmetic decision, not a cleaning alternative.

Not all roof cleaning methods are created equal—and when it comes to maintaining the long-term appearance and condition of your roof, the difference between pressure cleaning and soft washing is critical.

At Hunter Pressure Cleaning, we do not pressure clean roofs—and for good reason.

Pressure cleaning blasts the surface with high-pressure water, which can:

• Damage the surface finish—stripping paint and colour from Colorbond or cement tiles, or glaze from terracotta tiles, or forcing water into unwanted areas, risking leaks and long term water damage.

• Cause visible uneven marks or striping, especially on Colorbond roofs, by disrupting the factory finish.

•  Spread mould, lichen, and algae spores rather than removing them, accelerating regrowth.

•  Serve only as a preparation step before painting, not as a maintenance clean.

Exposing your roof to pressure cleaning without painting causes unnecessary surface damage and often accelerates the need for repainting.

Soft washing uses low-pressure water combined with professional-grade treatments to kill and remove organic growth at its roots. It:

• Preserves the existing roof surface and colour

• Eliminates spores and biofilm for longer-lasting results

• Removes the cause, not just the symptoms, of roof discolouration

For homeowners who want a proper clean without damaging their roof, soft washing is the safest, most effective choice. This is the only roof cleaning method Hunter Pressure Cleaning offers.

Lichen Removal Takes Time: Lichen can take weeks or months to fully break down after treatment, depending on local weather conditions. Patience is key.

Water Management: To protect water tanks and ponds, water runoff during cleaning is diverted away from these sources to prevent contamination from cleaning agents or residues.

Whirly Birds and Colourbond Roofs: Installing a whirly bird (roof cavity ventilation) on Colourbond roofs can significantly reduce mould growth, especially along the ridge capping. Improved airflow helps keep the roof dry, limiting conditions that encourage organic growth and extending the time between cleanings.

A clean roof does more than restore street appeal—it sets your home apart. In a neighbourhood of tired rooftops, your property can look truly exceptional: fresh, well cared-for, and inviting.

At Hunter Pressure Cleaning, we know how to clean your roof properly—no shortcuts, no harsh methods, just professional care tailored to your property’s needs.

Let’s bring out the best in your home. Contact us today to arrange your expert roof clean—and enjoy the pride that comes with a home that turns heads for all the right reasons.