Cleaning the patio roof: 3 techniques at a glance
The optimal cleaning of the patio roof depends on the material of the panels. Read this article to find out which options you have in each case.
What techniques are there?
Cleaning the patio roof with a pressure washer
In principle, it is possible to clean most patio roofs with a pressure washer. This not only saves time and effort, but can also keep water consumption low. It is important that you never hold the water jet directly on the roofing – neither glass roofs nor materials such as Plexiglas and plastic are designed for so much water pressure.
Instead, use a brush attachment that distributes the water to several nozzles and is more like a garden hose in terms of pressure. Such attachments are available in DIY stores as well as in specialised shops. It is also advisable to retrofit a telescopic pole so that you can easily reach all roof surfaces from a ladder.
Cleaning the patio roof without a pressure washer
It is also possible to clean the patio roof manually without any problems and to rely on your own muscle power. Simply opt for a garden hose and a long-handled broom that can be tied together with cable ties.
Washing-up liquid is usually sufficient as a cleaning agent for plastic and glass surfaces. In combination with lukewarm water, even stubborn bird droppings can be removed. In contrast to using a pressure washer, this option reduces the risk of scratched and damaged surfaces. In addition, the power consumption and noise pollution are significantly lower. However, you usually have to allow more time for cleaning.
Have your patio roof cleaned
The third option is professional cleaning by a glass or building cleaning company. This is particularly worthwhile if the patio roof is heavily soiled or has a large surface area that can hardly be cleaned without stepping on it – in this case, the appropriate equipment is necessary, the investment costs of which are often not worthwhile.
Most building cleaners use window cleaning robots, which allows thorough and targeted cleaning of surfaces and frames. It is not uncommon to be charged extra for smaller patio roofs, so you could also have the windows cleaned on this occasion. You should expect costs of around 12 to 25 euros per square metre of roof surface.
Product recommendations
If you want to clean the patio roof with a pressure washer, you need both the device and a suitable attachment including telescopic pole. When making your choice, pay attention to the operating pressure, the area output and the maximum inlet temperature. The weight can also be relevant. The telescopic pole should be able to cover a length of at least four metres. Optimal nozzle distribution is particularly important for the brush attachment.
Kärcher K 2 Power Control Home high-pressure washer: Intelligent app support - the practical solution for everyday dirt - incl....
- Efficient cleaning: The K 2 Power Control Home pressure washer uses a maximum pressure of 110 bar to clean bicycles, garden tools and furniture for the garden, patio or balcony, for example
- Knowledge in your pocket: The Kärcher Home & Garden app contains information about how to use pressure washers, its areas of application, lots of tips and tricks as well as the Kärcher service portal
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This high-pressure cleaner not only impresses with its low weight of 3.8 kg and time-saving connection and disconnection of the high-pressure hose, but also has a lot of power. The pressure is 110 bar and the maximum flow rate is 360 l/h. The inlet temperature is also impressive. The maximum inlet temperature of 40°C is also impressive.
Kärcher TLA 4 Telescopic Spray Lance High Pressure Washer Accessory, Black
- Compatibility: K 2 - K 7 high pressure washers
- Part Number: 26441900
- Colour: black
- Power source type: hand powered
- Package Dimensions: 10.5 L x 120.0 H x 24.5 W (centimeters)
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This telescopic pole can be combined with the pressure washer and allows you to clean surfaces up to a height of 5 metres. It has a 180° joint and is very easy to mount. At the touch of a button, the telescopic pole can be extended between 1.2 and 3.7 metres. Thanks to a low weight of 2.8 kg, your arms are also spared.
Kärcher Brush, Black, Translucent, White, Yellow, (L x B x H) 309 x 153 x 135 mm
- Rotating brush head
- Switch top via release lever
- Cleaning agent application via pressure washer
- Compatible with garden hose adaptor
- Transparent body
This rotating washing brush is also compatible with the pressure washer and offers a universal brush attachment that can be used for glass as well as plastic and many other smooth surfaces. The attachment can be changed without tools by means of a release lever. The brush has a diameter of about 30 cm.
Instructions: Cleaning the patio roof in 4 steps with a pressure washer
1. Sweep off coarse soiling
Before you reach for the pressure washer, you should prepare the surface of the patio roof optimally. This includes sweeping off coarse dirt such as needles, leaves and branches, which can best be removed with a brush or a long-handled broom. Also pay attention to the gutter, which should also be thoroughly cleaned of debris.
2. Pre-clean the patio roof with a water hose
Then take the water hose and spray the entire roof. This usually rinses off or at least softens the coarsest dried dirt, which can make the next step much easier. Sometimes it can help to repeat this preliminary cleaning several times.
3. Use the pressure washer
Then take the pressure washer together with the telescopic pole and brush attachment and use clear water to thoroughly scrub the surface of the patio roof. If water is not enough, consider using moderate amounts of detergent. Wipe over stubborn dirt several times to loosen it.
4. Rinse off
After cleaning, rinse the roof again with clear water to wash away the last of the dirt residue. Then use a soft microfibre cloth or leather cloth and wrap it over the attachment. Use it to wipe over the roof covering again to effectively remove water stains as well.
Tools:
- Pressure washer
- Brush attachment
- Telescopic pole attachment
- Broom or root brush
- Water hose
- Microfibre cloth or leather cloth
- Ladder
Materials: Water, possibly washing-up liquid or a suitable cleaning agent
Possible problems & solutions
Common problems when cleaning patio roofs include stubborn dirt such as plant debris or even bird droppings. Usually, these contaminations can be removed with a high-pressure cleaner and brush attachment. Sometimes it makes sense to use washing-up liquid or special cleaning agents for the roof material. Always make sure that your ladder is adequately secured.
FAQ
How often should a patio roof be cleaned?
As an interval that is gentle on the material, it is advisable to clean the patio roof twice a year – in spring and late autumn. This prevents dirt from attacking the material in the long term and literally “eating into” it.
How much does professional cleaning of a patio roof cost?
The cost of professional cleaning depends on many factors, including the size of the roof area, the material, the height and the glass and building cleaning company’s own cost factors (for example, the hourly wage and travel). Calculate costs of around 12 to 25 pounds per square metre and compare offers.
Can a patio roof be walked on?
If possible, you should refrain from walking on a patio roof yourself. This requires both protection and expert knowledge of the material used. If walking cannot be prevented, you should only walk on the rafters.
How do you clean a patio roof properly?
A patio roof can be cleaned either with or without a pressure washer. First sweep off coarse dirt and pre-clean with a water hose before using a brush or brush attachment. Finally, the roof surface should be rinsed again.
