About Roof Cleaning
Those black streaks running down your shingles aren't dirt — they're Gloeocapsa magma, a hardy cyanobacteria that feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles. Left unchecked, it shortens roof life dramatically and voids some manufacturer warranties. Pressure washing a roof is the worst thing you can do to it — it strips granules, breaks the mat underneath, and causes leaks within 12-18 months. The right approach is a soft wash with a carefully metered bleach-based solution that kills the organism at the root, lets rain rinse the residue over 2-6 weeks, and restores the roof to near-new appearance without a single pound of pressure touching the shingles. That's what roof cleaning is: chemistry, not force. This topic covers asphalt shingle roofs (the majority of Madison housing stock), cedar shake and cedar shingle roofs (which need a different chemistry because the wood reacts with sodium hypochlorite), and metal roofs on both residential and commercial buildings. It also covers moss removal — which we can accelerate with a zinc strip install along the ridge to prevent regrowth — as well as roof pre-wash before gutter cleaning, bird-netting removal, and debris clearing from valleys. Roof cleaning is the single highest-impact exterior service for curb appeal because the roof is 30-40% of the visible surface of a house from the street. If you're preparing to sell in the next 6-18 months, it's worth the spend. Get a quote below or browse the resources.
Core services
Everything we do under the roof cleaning umbrella.
Deep-dive articles on roof cleaning
Expert guides, problem-solving posts, and seasonal advice.

Algae on Your Roof: Why It Happens in Wisconsin & How to Stop It
Black streaks on your roof are algae — and Wisconsin's climate makes every home vulnerable. Learn how algae grows, what it does to shingles, and how to stop it.
about 1 month ago
Cedar Shake Roof Cleaning in Madison WI: Expert Care Guide
Cedar shake roofs require specialized cleaning to avoid damage. Learn the right approach, what products are safe, and how to maintain a cedar roof in Wisconsin's climate.
about 1 month ago
Moss & Algae Roof Treatment in Madison, WI: Why April–May Is the Optimal Window
Why April-May is the optimal window for soft wash roof treatment in Madison, WI. DIY risks that damage shingles, when to schedule, and how treatment protects your roof long-term.
about 2 months ago
Does Roof Cleaning Really Extend Your Roof's Life?
The question is worth asking: does professional roof cleaning actually extend roof lifespan or just improve looks? Here's the honest answer from Madison roofing and cleaning professionals.
2 months ago
How to Protect Your Madison Home from Ice Dam Damage
Understand what causes ice dams, how to prevent them, and what to do when they form. A practical guide for Madison homeowners facing Wisconsin winters.
2 months ago
How Much Does Roof Cleaning Cost in Madison, WI?
Roof cleaning costs in Madison vary based on roof size, pitch, and contamination level. Here's a detailed 2026 price guide for Wisconsin homeowners.
3 months ago
Ice Dam Prevention in Madison: Protect Your Roof This Winter
Ice dams cause thousands of dollars in damage to Madison homes every winter. Learn what causes them, how to prevent them, and what to do if one forms on your roof.
3 months ago
Roof Cleaning & Soft Washing in Madison, WI: What Homeowners Must Know
Roof cleaning in Madison requires the right approach to avoid damaging shingles and voiding warranties. Here's what every Wisconsin homeowner should know before hiring a roof cleaner.
4 months ago
Roof Cleaning Madison WI: Soft Wash vs Pressure Wash
The right cleaning method for your Madison roof matters — pressure washing can void warranties and cause permanent damage. Learn why soft washing is the professional standard.
4 months ago
Roof Moss Removal in Madison WI: Protect Your Home
Moss on your Madison roof holds moisture and causes real shingle damage. Learn how to remove it safely, prevent it from returning, and when to call a professional.
4 months ago
Those Black Streaks on Your Roof? Here's What They Are
The black streaks running down your roof aren't dirt — they're a specific type of algae that damages shingles over time. Here's what they are and how to remove them safely.
4 months agoCommon questions about roof cleaning
Honest answers from the crew that does the work.
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