Roof Cleaning Cost Calculator

Written by Lucy Farrington-Smith
Lucy Farrington-Smith
Writer
I'm a UK-based freelance writer with 6+ years of experience in writing for home renovation websites.
23rd July, 2025
How we get our data
We gather our data from real quotes given by UK tradespeople to UK homeowners on the MyJobQuote platform.

Regular roof cleaning is an important, often overlooked, part of home maintenance.

Roofs accumulate dirt, moss, lichen, algae, and debris over time. Left untreated, this can lead to tile deterioration, blocked gutters, leaks, and structural issues. In extreme cases, it can end with you needing a new roof installed.

Regularly cleaning your roof not only keeps it looking its best, but it also extends its lifespan, and helps to prevent expensive roofing repair costs.

Clean and dirty roof

So, what's the cost of roof cleaning?

Using our roof cleaning cost calculator takes the guesswork out of budgeting, and gives you an accurate estimate based on roof size, scaffolding, and location.

How to Use Our Roof Cleaning Cost Calculator

Simply enter a few key details - your roof size and material, the level of dirt build-up, and your location - and in seconds you'll get an accurate roof cleaning price list.

The calculator generates a tailored estimate, giving you a clear idea of how much roof cleaning is likely to cost.

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Roof Cleaning Cost Calculator

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Average Roof Cleaning Costs

The average cost of roof cleaning is around £575.

However, this initial price may increase or decrease depending on:

  • Your property type and size (e.g. terraced, semi-detached, detached)
  • How much dirt, debris, and moss your roof has accumulated
  • How easy it is to access your property's roof

To put those factors into context, here's what you can typically expect to pay for roof cleaning for different-sized houses:

Job Description Duration Labour Cost
Pressure washing detached house roof 6 – 7 hours £550 – £900
Pressure washing semi-detached house roof 4 – 5 hours £400 – £550
Pressure washing terraced house roof 3 – 4 hours £400 – £550
Pressure washing bungalow roof 3 – 5 hours £350 – £500
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Roof Cleaning Cost Calculator Breakdown

There are additional costs to consider when it comes to roof cleaning:

  • Roofing Labour — Roofers charge around £250 to £350 per day, with labour rates towards the upper end of this range in London and the South East.
  • Scaffolding Hire — If required, scaffolding for this type of job will typically cost between £650 and £950.
  • Gutter Cleaning — The average cost to clean a home's gutters is around £200.

Once your roof has been cleaned, you may want to prolong the fresh condition with a roofing treatment. These can cost anywhere from £1,000 to £2,500, depending on the type you choose and the size of your roof.

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MyJobQuote can help you find local roof cleaners, too!

You can get up to 3 free, no obligation quotes from roof cleaners near you.

All you need to do is submit a few basic details about what you’re after, and we’ll handle the rest.

Factors That Impact Roof Cleaning Costs

The cost of roof cleaning can vary based on several key factors.

Let's take a closer look at each of these:

Roof Size and Pitch

The bottom line is that a larger roof is more expensive to clean.

This is because they require more time, labour, and equipment, which quickly add up in supply and labour fees.

Your roof's pitch also impacts your cleaning costs. Steeper pitches add to the job's difficulty and may require additional safety measures.

Degree of Contamination

Roofs with a lot of moss, algae, lichen, or debris will take longer to clean than those with less contamination and may even require specialist treatments.

The more extensive the contamination, the higher the cost is likely to be.

Type of Roofing Material

Different roofing materials require different cleaning methods and don’t cost the same.

For example, slate tiles tend to be more delicate than concrete tiles, so low-pressure or manual cleaning is often required. This is usually more time-consuming and costly.

Accessibility and Safety Requirements

If your roof is difficult to access - due to its height, extensions, or limited space around the property for ladders - equipment like scaffolding may be required, increasing the cost and time required to complete the job.

Roof being power washed

Location in the UK

The cost of labour changes depending on your location, and the availability of roof cleaning services can also impact the cost in certain areas.

For example, roof cleaning in London and other large cities is likely to cost more than in other, more rural parts of the UK due to higher operating expenses and demand.

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Benefits of Roof Cleaning

Roof cleaning isn’t just about making your home look good - it’s also an investment in the long-term condition and value of the property.

Here are three key benefits of roof cleaning:

Improves Appearance and Property Value

A clean roof instantly improves the curb appeal of your home.

By removing stains, moss and debris, you’ll ensure your property looks well-maintained and cared for. This can influence potential buyers, and even boost its market value.

Extends the Life of Roofing Materials

Moss, algae, and lichen can trap moisture in the roof, gradually breaking down tiles and slates.

By cleaning your roof regularly, you can prevent this from happening, stopping premature wear and tear, and extending your roof's lifespan. This helps you to avoid having to pay for costly repairs or replacements sooner than you should need to.

Prevents Water Damage and Drainage Issues

Blocked gutters and pipes are often caused by roof debris building up over time. This can lead to overflowing water, damp patches, and even structural damage.

Roof cleaning helps to ensure steady water flow, protecting your home's exterior and interior from moisture-related problems and drainage issues.

Tips for Reducing Roof Cleaning Costs

There will always be costs involved in roof cleaning, but there are ways to keep things as affordable as possible. With a bit of planning and with the help of a detailed roof cleaning price list, you can reduce the cost without compromising a quality finish.

Here's how:

Combine with Other Maintenance Tasks

Roof cleaning is often included as part of other services, and combining it with different maintenance tasks usually means you get more for your money.

If you’re already hiring professionals for gutter cleaning, pressure washing, or roof inspections, consider adding roof cleaning into the mix.

Gutters being cleaned

Keep Up with Regular Maintenance

The longer moss and debris are left to accumulate on a roof, the harder and more expensive they are to remove.

By keeping on top of regular cleaning, or applying preventative treatments such as a biocide treatment, you may avoid the need for more intensive and costly deep cleaning.

Get Multiple Quotes from Professionals

The price of roof cleaning can vary widely depending on who you ask, so it’s a good idea to get at least 3 quotes from local roofing specialists.

You can then compare your options and make a confident decision on which quote is right for you. This helps to make sure you’re getting a good deal, and it allows you to compare services and customer reviews before making a final choice.

FAQs

How often should a roof be cleaned?

It’s a good idea to organise professional roof cleaning every 3 to 5 years, depending on the surrounding trees, age of the roof, and the amount of moss or algae growth you’re dealing with.

Is roof cleaning safe for all types of roofs?

Yes, but only if it’s done correctly, as not all types of roofs are cleaned in the same way. Different roof types require different cleaning methods, but a professional cleaner will assess the material and choose the safest approach.

Can I clean my roof myself?

There’s nothing stopping you from taking a DIY approach to roof cleaning. But, it's not always recommended due to safety risks that come with working at height and the potential to damage tiles. Hiring a professional roofing contractor is the safer, more effective route.

Does roof cleaning damage tiles?

No, not if it's done correctly. Expert roof cleaners use techniques and equipment designed to clean without harming the surface. This includes using soft washing or manual removal techniques for delicate roofs, rather than pressure washing.
Last updated by MyJobQuote on 23rd July 2025.
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