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myRoof Cleaning Cost
At a Glance
- The average cost of roof cleaning is around £575.
- The job will usually take between 3 to 7 hours.
- NEW! Use our roof cleaning cost calculator for an instant estimate.
- A complete roof cleaning price list.
- How long roof cleaning takes, and a general overview of what kind of jobs can be performed to keep your roof clean.
- How to find a roof cleaner near you.
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How much does roof cleaning cost?
The average cost of roof cleaning is around £575.
This guide will cover how much it is to clean a roof, and how those costs can differ depending on the size of the house. We'll explain which types of roofs are suitable for different types of roof cleaning, such as roof jet washing, and how to find and hire a roof cleaner near you to get the job done.
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Table of Contents
Roof Cleaning Cost Calculator
How Much Does Roof Cleaning Cost?
So, what's the average cost to clean a roof?
The average cost of roof cleaning using pressure washing is around £575, based on an average-sized semi-detached house with good ease of access.
Costs can rise to £900 for roof pressure washing for larger, detached homes, and especially those spread over multiple storeys, as scaffolding will usually be required.
The roof of my house has accumulated a lot of dirt and pollution over time. How much will it cost to have it pressure washed by a professional?
"This would be expensive as you would need a scaffold, as it would be too dangerous to get a jet wash up there. Even then, I wouldn’t recommend it. Have a word with a cleaning service and they will advise you if it can be done."
Roof Cleaning Price List
Roof cleaning prices in the UK typically range from £8 to £20 per m², depending on the method used. The table below gives a quick comparison across the most common roof cleaning methods.
| Cleaning Method | Cost Per m² | Average Cost (Semi-Detached) |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure washing | £8–£15 | £400–£550 |
| Soft washing | £10–£20 | £450–£650 |
| Manual scraping and biocide treatment | £8–£15 | £400–£600 |
| Steam cleaning | £11–£25 | £500–£750 |
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Pressure Washing
Pressure washing uses high-pressure water jets to remove moss, algae, dirt, and other debris from roof tiles. It's one of the most widely used roof cleaning methods in the UK and typically the most affordable option.
Pressure washing a roof costs between £8 and £15 per m², or roughly £400 to £550 for an average semi-detached home.
Pros
- ✔ Usually the cheapest roof cleaning method.
- ✔ Quick, with visible results on the same day.
- ✔ Effective at removing heavy moss and algae build-up.
Cons
- ✖ Can damage or dislodge older, more delicate roof tiles.
- ✖ Moss is likely to return sooner without a follow-up biocide treatment.
- ✖ Not suitable for all roof types — always check with a professional first.
Soft Washing
Soft washing uses low-pressure water combined with specialist cleaning solutions to remove moss, algae, lichen, and organic growth. It's a gentler alternative to pressure washing, making it well suited to older or more delicate roofs.
Soft washing a roof typically costs between £10 and £20 per m², or around £450 to £650 for a semi-detached home. It's generally more expensive than pressure washing, but the cleaning solutions help slow regrowth.
Pros
- ✔ Much gentler on roof tiles than pressure washing.
- ✔ Suitable for a wider range of roof materials, including older clay and slate tiles.
- ✔ Specialist cleaning solutions help kill spores and slow moss regrowth.
Cons
- ✖ Usually costs more than pressure washing.
- ✖ Results can vary depending on the roof's condition and the cleaning solutions used.
Manual Scraping and Biocide Treatment
This method involves physically scraping moss and debris off the roof by hand, followed by the application of a biocide treatment to slow regrowth. It's one of the most common approaches to moss removal from a roof.
Manual scraping with biocide treatment costs between £8 and £15 per m², or roughly £400 to £600 for a semi-detached home. The biocide treatment can extend the time before moss starts to return, making this good value over the long term.
Pros
- ✔ Gentler on tiles than pressure washing.
- ✔ Biocide treatment helps prevent moss and algae returning quickly.
- ✔ Suitable for most common tile types.
Cons
- ✖ More labour-intensive, so can take longer than other methods.
- ✖ Results still need ongoing maintenance — biocide treatment doesn't last indefinitely.
Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning uses high-temperature steam at low pressure to lift moss, algae, and dirt from roof tiles. It's considered a more eco-friendly option as it relies on heat rather than strong chemicals.
Steam cleaning a roof typically costs between £11 and £25 per m², or around £500 to £750 for a semi-detached home, making it one of the more expensive roof cleaning methods.
Pros
- ✔ Eco-friendlier than chemical-based methods.
- ✔ Effective at removing organic growth, including moss and algae.
- ✔ Can be gentler than high-pressure washing.
Cons
- ✖ Usually more expensive than other roof cleaning methods.
- ✖ Access equipment may still be needed depending on the roof type and height.
Roof Cleaning Costs by House Type
If you'd prefer to compare costs by property type rather than cleaning method, the table below covers typical pressure washing prices as a benchmark.
| 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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What’s the best way to clean roof tiles without causing damage?
"I would recommend pressure washing the roof but at the same time I would recommend to remove any moss with a scrapper."
Roof Cleaning Additional Costs
The roof cleaning price you're quoted may not cover everything. It's worth checking exactly what's included before work starts, as these additional costs can affect your overall budget.
Scaffolding
Scaffolding may be needed for two-storey properties, steeply pitched roofs, or sites with limited access. It isn't always included in the roof cleaning quote, so it's worth asking upfront. The cost of scaffolding hire typically adds around £18 per m² to the overall project cost.
Gutter Cleaning
Once a roof has been cleaned, moss and debris often end up in the gutters. Many homeowners choose to have their gutters cleared at the same time, and some roof cleaning companies will include this as part of the job. The cost of gutter cleaning is around £200 if charged separately, though combining it with your roof clean can save on access costs.
Biocide Treatment
A biocide treatment applied after cleaning helps kill remaining moss spores and slow regrowth. It isn't always included in the base price — particularly with pressure washing — so it's worth confirming whether it's covered in your quote. Expect to pay an extra £25 to £50 if added separately.
Roof Repairs
Cleaning sometimes reveals cracked, slipped, or damaged roof tiles that need attention. If your roof cleaner spots any issues during the job, you may need to budget for repairs. The cost of roof repairs ranges from around £60 for minor fixes to £1,000 or more for larger jobs.
What Affects the Cost of Roof Cleaning?
Several factors influence how much you'll pay to have your roof cleaned. Understanding these can help you get a more accurate quote and avoid unexpected costs.
Cleaning Method
The cleaning method is one of the biggest drivers of cost. Pressure washing is generally the cheapest option, while steam cleaning and soft washing tend to cost more. The right method for your roof will depend on the type of tiles you have and their condition — your roof cleaner should be able to advise on the best approach.
Roof Type and Material
Different roof materials need different cleaning methods. Older clay or slate roof tiles can be too fragile for high-pressure washing, so a softer approach is often required — which can push up the price. Concrete tiles are generally more hardwearing and better suited to pressure washing. The pitch (slope) of the roof also affects cost: steeper roofs take longer to clean safely and may need additional access equipment.
Extent of Moss and Algae Build-Up
A roof with heavy moss build-up or significant algae growth will take more time and effort to clean than one with light surface dirt. If moss has been left untreated for several years, manual scraping may be needed before any washing can take place, which adds to the overall cost.
Access and Scaffolding
The ease of access to your property plays a significant role in the final price. If the roof cleaner can work safely from ladders or a long-reach system, costs are kept lower than if scaffolding is needed.
Location in the UK
Labour rates vary across the country. Homeowners in London and the South East can expect to pay more than those in the North of England, Wales, or Scotland. For a more accurate roof cleaning cost in your area, it's worth getting quotes from local tradespeople.
There's a lot of moss on our roof and someone suggested using a pressure washer. Is that actually safe or will it damage the tiles?
"It is usually safe depending on wear and tear of tiles. You can also use a surface cleaner (like a spinning disc) which does arguably a better job and less intrusive. Always start at the apex of the roof, and work down"
Why Do I Need To Keep My Roof Clean?
Helps to Improve Your Home’s Appearance
Pressure washing your roof is an easy way to improve your home's appearance and function.
Since your home's roof isn't something you look at daily, dirt and grime can build up over time without you noticing. Pressure washing can be a simple way to clean up what would otherwise take days in just a few hours.
Improves Rainwater Run-Off
Freeing your property's roof from built-up moss, algae, and other debris can help improve rainwater flow after heavy showers.
It's important to note that incorrect pressure washing can cause water damage, which is why a roofing professional should carry it out to ensure your roof is suitable for the treatment.
Reduces the Need for Costly Roof Repairs
Without upkeep, your home's roof risks becoming damaged due to dirt buildup, which could lead to bigger problems, such as the need to have your entire roof replaced in extreme cases.
The cost of flat roof replacement is around £2,500 on average - far higher than the cost to keep your existing roof regularly maintained.
I’m considering buying a timber framed house with a roof clad with cedar shingles. Could anyone give me some idea of what it should cost to clean and treat the roof?
"Rough estimate £30 per square metre, low pressure wash plus timber treatment, also scaffold for access may be required."
Do You Need Scaffolding To Pressure Wash A Roof?
Additional scaffolding hire may be needed to pressure wash your roof safely, but it's determined on a case-by-case basis.
Here are some scenarios to help put this into context:
Scaffolding Likely To Be Required
- Your property is two storeys or taller
- There's limited or tight access around your property, making it hard to use ladders safely
- Your property's roof has a steep pitch, increasing the job's complexity and safety risks
Scaffolding Usually Not Required
- Your property is single-storey (e.g. bungalows)
- If you want your standalone garage or shed pressure washed, scaffolding won't be necessary
- In situations where your roof cleaner can access using long-reach pressure washing systems
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Checklist: Hiring a Local Roof Cleaner in the UK
Due to the risks involved in working at height and using specialist cleaning equipment, hiring a professional roof cleaner is the safest option for most homeowners. Here's what to consider when choosing one.
- Is your roof suitable for the method being used? Check that your roof material can handle the cleaning method being proposed. Older clay or slate tiles may be too fragile for pressure washing — a reputable roof cleaner should advise on this before quoting. If damage does occur, the average roof tile replacement cost is around £215.
- Do they have experience with your roof type? Make sure the company has specific experience cleaning roofs like yours, whether that's concrete tiles, slate, or another material.
- Are they insured? Public liability insurance is essential. If the roof cleaning company has employees, employer's liability insurance is a legal requirement. Always check before agreeing to any work.
- Do they offer a guarantee? Ask what's covered if something goes wrong and how they handle any issues that arise after the job.
- Have you received an itemised quote? A clear breakdown of costs — including labour, any biocide treatment, scaffolding, and waste removal — makes it easier to compare roof cleaning prices between companies.
- Can they add on extra jobs? Ask whether gutter cleaning, moss treatment, or minor repairs can be included in the same visit to make the most of access costs.
- Do they have examples of similar work? Ask to see photos or videos of previous roof cleaning jobs, particularly on properties similar to yours.
- Do they have positive reviews? Check their MyJobQuote profile to read feedback from other homeowners about their roof cleaning services.
FAQs
When Is the Best Time of Year to Clean My Roof?
Spring and summer are the best times for roof cleaning in the UK. The mild temperatures help biocide treatments work effectively, and dry weather means safer working conditions. Spring is ideal for treating moss before its main growth period, while summer offers the longest daylight hours for completing the job.
How Long Does Pressure Washing Last?
A professionally cleaned roof typically stays clean for 2 to 4 years, depending on your location and surroundings. Applying a biocide treatment after cleaning can help extend results by killing remaining spores and slowing regrowth of moss.
How Often Should the Roof Be Pressure Washed?
Most roofing companies will suggest every 18 to 42 months. If the home is very dirty, some companies might suggest getting it done more often, but most homes only need it done once every 18 to 42 months.
Will Pressure Washing Void My Roof Tile Warranty?
High-pressure washing can void your roof tile warranty, and major UK manufacturers typically warn against it, as the force of pressure washing can strip the protective surface layer from tiles. Check your warranty before deciding if pressure washing is right for your roof.
Can Moss on My Roof Cause Damage?
While light moss is usually harmless, heavy growth can cause problems by holding moisture against your tiles, which can freeze in winter and lift them out of position. Moss can also clog gutters and add weight to your roof.
What Are Some Alternatives to Pressure Washing?
Where roof materials are too delicate for pressure washing, softer alternatives are available. These include manual scraping with a soft brush, soft washing using low-pressure water and specialist cleaning solutions, and steam cleaning. A professional roof cleaner can advise on the most suitable method for your roof type.
Can I Clean a Roof Myself?
Roof cleaning is not generally recommended as a DIY job. Pressure washers are powerful pieces of equipment that can damage roof tiles, windows, and guttering if used incorrectly. Working at height also carries significant safety risks. Unless you have experience with both the equipment and working on roofs, hiring a professional roof cleaning company is the safer and more reliable option.
Is My Roof Suitable for Pressure Washing?
Not all roofs are suitable for pressure washing. Older clay or slate tiles can be too fragile — the force of the water can dislodge tiles, cause cracks, or create leaks. Concrete tiles and more modern roof materials tend to be more hardwearing. If you're unsure, ask a professional to assess your roof before any cleaning takes place. In some cases, soft washing or manual moss removal may be recommended instead.
How Much Does It Cost to Clean a Bungalow Roof?
Bungalow roof cleaning typically costs between £350 and £500, depending on the size of the roof, the cleaning method, and the level of moss or dirt build-up. Because bungalows are single-storey, scaffolding is often not required, which can help keep costs down compared with larger properties.
