Concrete Tile Roof Cleaning in Hampshire

Why concrete tiles need a gentle clean

Concrete roof tiles have a thin, sand-faced or coloured surface layer over the concrete. Moss roots into that surface, holds water against the tile and lifts it when it freezes. High-pressure jet washing removes the moss, but it also strips the surface layer, leaving the tile more porous. A more porous tile soaks up water and grows moss back faster.

Soft washing applies a biocide at low pressure. It kills moss, algae and lichen at the root, and the dead growth is brushed or scraped off by hand or washes away over the following weeks. The tile surface stays intact. See soft wash vs jet wash for the full comparison.

What a proper clean includes

1. Hand removal of heavy moss from the tiles and ridge, bagged rather than dropped into gutters.
2. Biocide treatment of the whole roof at low pressure to kill remaining spores, algae and lichen.
3. Gutter and downpipe clearance so moss debris doesn’t block them (gutter cleaning).
4. Before and after photos so you can see the whole roof, not just the parts visible from the street.

Interlocking tiles and walking on the roof

Most concrete roofs in Hampshire use large interlocking tiles. They are stronger than plain tiles, but they can still crack if walked on carelessly. Much of the work is done from the ground with water-fed extension poles, so ask the specialist how they will access your roof and whether any tiles are already cracked before they start.

Should you coat a concrete roof?

A roof coating can refresh the colour of older, faded concrete tiles, but it isn’t needed to keep a roof sound, and it adds cost. For most homes a clean and biocide treatment is enough. See roof coating vs cleaning.

Areas

South Hampshire and the Solent, including Southampton, Eastleigh, Winchester, Romsey, Fareham, Portsmouth and Havant. See all areas.

Common Questions

Can you pressure wash a concrete tile roof?

You can, but it is not recommended. Jet washing strips the surface layer of concrete tiles, making them more porous so moss grows back faster. Soft washing with a biocide removes the growth without that damage.

How often does a concrete tile roof need cleaning?

Most Hampshire roofs need cleaning every few years, sooner where the roof is shaded by trees or faces north. A biocide treatment slows regrowth after the clean.

Will cleaning damage my concrete tiles?

A soft wash at low pressure, with careful access, does not damage sound tiles. Ask the specialist to note any tiles that are already cracked or slipped before the work starts.

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Related

Concrete tile roofs · Clay tile roofs · Slate roofs · Soft wash vs jet wash · Moss removal · Typical costs