Questions and answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about roof cleaning, gutter work, quoting and how we work across London and the South East.
Can you quote without visiting the property?
Yes. In many cases we can quote remotely using your address, Google satellite view, property photos and a few questions about access, roof condition and any known issues. If the job is more complex, we may ask for extra photos or arrange a closer inspection.
Is roof cleaning safe for my tiles?
Yes, when done properly. The safest method depends on the roof type, tile condition and age of the property. We assess the roof first and choose the most suitable cleaning method, rather than treating every roof the same way.
Do you pressure wash roofs?
We only use the method that is suitable for the roof. Some roofs can be cleaned using controlled low-pressure washing, while others are better suited to hand scraping and treatment. The condition and type of tiles always come first.
Why should moss be removed from a roof?
Moss holds moisture, adds weight and can block gutters when it falls from the roof. Over time, this can contribute to damp problems, blocked drainage, tile damage and unnecessary repair costs. Removing moss helps protect the roof and improve the appearance of the property.
How long does roof cleaning take?
Most residential roof cleaning jobs take one to several days, depending on roof size, moss level, access and the cleaning method required. Larger homes, steep roofs, difficult access or commercial buildings can take longer.
Do you apply a treatment after roof cleaning?
Yes, where appropriate, we can apply a biocide treatment after cleaning. This helps slow down organic regrowth and keeps the roof looking cleaner for longer. We will advise whether treatment is suitable for your roof.
How often should gutters be cleaned?
Most homes should have their gutters cleaned at least once a year. Properties near trees, schools, larger buildings and homes with known drainage problems may need cleaning more often.
Can blocked gutters cause damage?
Yes. Blocked gutters can cause rainwater to overflow onto walls, roofs, fascias and foundations. Left untreated, this can lead to damp, staining, rot and expensive repairs.
Do you repair gutters as well as clean them?
Yes, we can often help with minor gutter repairs, leaks, loose sections and related issues. If we spot a problem while cleaning, we can advise what needs doing and whether it can be repaired at the same time.
Do you work on schools and commercial buildings?
Yes. We carry out roof and gutter maintenance for schools, commercial properties and larger buildings. This can include roof cleaning, gutter clearing, inspections, minor repairs and planned maintenance.
Are your team suitable for school work?
Yes. For school and commercial work, the team can provide relevant safety and trust credentials where required, including SafeContractor approval, DBS checks and access equipment experience.
Which areas do you cover?
We cover East Grinstead and the wider South East, including parts of Sussex, Surrey, Kent, London, Buckinghamshire and nearby areas. For larger roof cleaning, gutter cleaning or commercial jobs, we may be able to travel further.
Do I need to be home while the work is done?
Not always. For many external roof and gutter jobs, we can carry out the work as long as we have safe access and the details have been agreed beforehand. We will confirm what is needed before the appointment.
Can I send photos before booking?
Yes. Photos are very useful. Clear pictures of the roof, gutters, access points, extensions, conservatories and any problem areas help us give a more accurate quote and recommend the right approach.
Will roof cleaning make a mess?
Roof cleaning can create moss and debris, but we plan the work carefully and clean up afterwards. We will also consider neighbouring properties, gardens, paths, driveways and access areas before starting.
Do you clean fascias and soffits?
Yes. We can clean fascias, soffits and the outside of gutters as part of the job. This is usually priced separately from standard internal gutter clearing.
How do I book a quote?
You can call us or send an enquiry with your address, contact details, photos if available, and a short description of the problem. We will review the property and get back to you with advice, pricing and availability.
What information do you need for a quote?
We usually need your postcode, property type, photos if possible, details about access, the service you need and any known issues such as leaks, blocked gutters, heavy moss or difficult roof areas.
How much does roof cleaning cost?
Roof cleaning cost depends on roof size, moss level, access and the method required. Most residential jobs are quoted individually after reviewing photos or the property rather than from a single flat price.
Is roof cleaning worth it?
Regular roof cleaning can extend the life of tiles, improve kerb appeal and reduce gutter blockages caused by moss fall. For many owners it is cheaper than reactive repairs after years of neglect.
What is the best time of year for roof cleaning?
Dry periods in spring and early autumn are often ideal for roof cleaning and biocide treatment. We can work in other seasons, but heavy rain or frost may delay treatment application.
What is the difference between moss and lichen?
Moss is a soft green plant that holds water, while lichen forms crusty patches that bond more tightly to tiles. Both benefit from professional assessment because removal methods differ slightly.
Can you clean concrete and clay tiles?
Yes. Concrete and clay tiles are common across the South East and can usually be cleaned when they are in reasonable condition. We adjust technique for tile age, profile and fragility.
Do you clean slate roofs?
We assess slate roofs individually. Light moss and organic growth can sometimes be treated carefully, but fragile or historic slate needs a conservative approach to avoid delamination or breakage.
Do you clean flat roofs?
We maintain many flat roof areas including moss removal, debris clearing and gutter connections to abutting walls. Method depends on the membrane type and current condition.
Do you clean gutters above conservatories?
Yes, with appropriate access equipment. Conservatory gutters and upper roof gutters often need towers or narrow platform access rather than leaning ladders alone.
What if my downpipe is blocked?
Blocked downpipes often cause gutters to overflow even when the gutter channel looks clear. We can usually clear downpipes as part of a gutter visit using rods, flushing or dismantling accessible sections.
Are gutter guards worth it?
Gutter guards can reduce leaf entry on some properties but are not maintenance-free. They work best when matched to roof type, tree species and rainfall volume.
Are you insured for roof and gutter work?
Yes. We carry appropriate public liability insurance for roof and gutter work at height. Certificates can be provided for commercial, school and managed properties when required.
How long does biocide treatment last?
Results vary with roof pitch, shade, tree cover and local weather. Many treated roofs stay noticeably cleaner for several years, but shaded north-facing slopes may see regrowth sooner.
Can I clean my own roof?
DIY roof cleaning is risky without training and proper access equipment. Falls from ladders and damaged tiles are common when homeowners attempt moss removal without a safe system of work.
Do you need scaffolding for roof cleaning?
Not always. Many homes are serviced from towers, ladders with stabilisers or MEWPs. Full scaffolding is reserved for complex access, long-duration jobs or where other methods are unsafe.
What about birds nests in gutters?
Nesting birds are protected under UK law during the breeding season. If an active nest is present, work affecting it may need to wait until birds have finished nesting.
Do you clear roof valleys and channels?
Yes. Valleys, secret gutters and parapet channels often trap moss and leaves before they reach the main gutter line. Clearing them reduces overflow and hidden leaks.
Can you help with leaking gutters?
Yes. Leaks often come from failed joints, cracked brackets, incorrect fall or blockages causing overflow. We diagnose the cause rather than only patching symptoms.
Do you work with property management companies?
Yes. We carry out planned gutter clearing and roof maintenance for landlords, managing agents and block managers across multiple properties.
Do you offer maintenance contracts?
Yes. Schools, commercial sites and residential portfolios often book annual or twice-yearly gutter and roof maintenance visits on fixed schedules.
How do you access difficult rear gardens?
Narrow side paths, rear extensions and locked gates are common in the South East. We discuss access routes, neighbour permissions and equipment size before booking.
Will cleaning void my roof warranty?
When done correctly for the tile type, professional cleaning should not void warranties. Aggressive pressure or unapproved chemicals can cause problems, which is why method selection matters.
Do you clean metal roofs?
Some metal roof finishes can be treated for organic growth with appropriate products and low-impact methods. We assess coating type and corrosion risk before quoting.
What causes black streaks on roofs?
Black streaks are often Gloeocapsa magma, an algae that feeds on limestone filler in shingles and some tiles. It spreads in humid, shaded conditions and is different from moss buildup.
Can roof cleaning help with selling a house?
A clean roof improves first impressions in photos and viewings. Surveyors also note heavy moss as a maintenance flag that buyers may negotiate on.
Do you remove leaves from flat roof gutters?
Yes. Parapet and internal flat roof outlets block quickly when leaves collect behind raised edges. Clearing them prevents ponding and winter freeze damage.
What is soft washing for roofs?
Soft washing uses low pressure combined with approved biocidal products to kill organic growth without aggressive blasting. It suits many roofs where mechanical scraping alone is not enough.
Do you clean chimney stacks and flashing?
We can clean moss from chimney stacks and surrounding roof areas where safe access allows. Flashing and leadwork are inspected for gaps but major lead repairs are quoted separately.
Can heavy moss damage roof tiles?
Yes. Long-term moss holds moisture against tiles, encourages freeze-thaw damage in winter and can lift edges as it grows underneath. Weight also increases load on older roof structures.
Do you provide before and after photos?
Yes, on request. Photos help commercial clients, agents and absent owners confirm work completion without being on site.
How soon can you attend an emergency gutter leak?
Availability depends on season and existing bookings, but overflowing gutters during storms are prioritised where possible. Temporary measures may be used until permanent repair can be scheduled.
Do you clean gutters on three storey houses?
Yes, using appropriate access equipment. Taller properties rarely suit ladder-only access; towers or MEWPs are planned in advance.
What happens to waste moss and debris?
Moss and gutter waste are bagged and removed from site as part of the job. We do not leave piles on drives or lawns unless you ask to keep material for composting.
Do you need neighbour permission for access?
Sometimes. If we need to place ladders, towers or MEWPs on a shared drive or over a boundary, we ask you to confirm neighbour access in advance.
Can you work on listed buildings?
Listed and conservation properties need extra care and may require consent for certain methods. We assess sensitivity and recommend conservative approaches where heritage tiles or lime mortar are present.
Do you clean roofs with solar panels?
We work around solar arrays with care. Panels are not walked on; cleaning focuses on accessible tile areas and gutters, following safe clearances from electrical equipment.
Is winter gutter cleaning a good idea?
Clearing gutters before winter storms reduces overflow ice and weight damage. Work continues in colder months when conditions are safe, though ice and high winds can cause postponements.
Why do gutters overflow in heavy rain?
Overflow can mean blockages, insufficient gutter capacity, incorrect fall or downpipes that cannot drain fast enough. Diagnosis starts at the outlet and hopper, not only the visible channel.
Do you unblock internal rainwater pipes?
We clear accessible external rainwater systems including many hopper-fed downpipes. Hidden internal chutes may need building access or a specialist if blockage is deep inside the wall.
Can algae on patio roofs be treated?
Yes. Low-level roof areas, porch covers and flat extensions often green quickly in shade. Gentle cleaning and biocide help without damaging lightweight coverings.
Do you offer drone roof inspections?
Where appropriate we use remote visual assessment including satellite review and photos you supply. Dedicated drone surveys may be arranged for large or hard-to-see roofs when useful for quoting.
What should I do after roof cleaning?
Allow biocide time to work and avoid rinsing treated surfaces unnecessarily. Monitor gutters for loosened debris over the first few rains and contact us if anything looks unusual.
No questions match your search. Try a different keyword or contact us for help.