It is quite common for Duro-Last roofs to become dirty or start showing colors different from the color which they were installed. Most Duro-Last roofs are either white or gray when they are installed, but over time this color can fade or stain from environmental factors.
While Duro-Last roofs are almost completely maintenance-free, there are a few things you should know to both prevent damage to your roof, and to care and clean it. It is not required to clean your roof besides keeping leaves and debris off of it, but some people do like to keep their flat roof clean and looking new. Follow these guidelines to keep your Duro-Last roof looking new and clean:
Be Careful With Asphalt
The most important thing to remember with Duro-Last roofs is that the PVC membrane cannot come in any sort of contact with asphalt. Asphalt can bleed into the Duro-Last membrane and then it is impossible to get out. If your roof is currently asphalt and you are thinking about getting a Duro-Last flat roof, be sure to contact the Duerson Corporation before you proceed. We can schedule a free roof analysis to determine what steps will need to be taken to install a Duro-Last roof, and to ensure that asphalt does not come into contact with the PVC membrane while it is being removed.
If you already have a Duro-Last roof installed, you will also want to ensure not to use any asphalt products in the maintenance of the roof. This means that all sealants, fillers and caulks must be asphalt-free, otherwise they can cause severe damage to your roof. If you hire a contractor to work on your roof, including HVAC installers and maintenance workers, be sure to communicate to them the seriousness of using asphalt on your roof.
Don’t Use Any Solvents
The next important thing when it comes to caring for your Duro-Last roof is to not use any solvents on the membrane. Solvents can cause the PVC roof membrane to soften and can take away the effect the membrane is supposed to have. Even if you accidentally do get asphalt on your Duro-Last membrane, don’t let use a solvent to try to get the asphalt off as this may cause more damage to your roof. It is best to use a non-solvent cleaner for the roof if water alone cannot clean it. If you do have damage or a leaking flat roof, contact the experts at Duerson to get the leak repaired immediately.
Cleaning your Roof
If your flat roof becomes dirty, follow the following best practices to clean your roof. It is normal for your roof to get slightly stained or to fade, especially if it is in an area with a lot of trees or near any factories and any industrial areas. If you want to brighten your roof again, it is best to scrub any built-up dirt with a soft-bristle brush and a non-solvent cleaner. After scrubbing the roof with this soft-bristle brush, you can simply sweep the water into the drain, or even just let the roof dry. If a hose reaches your roof, you can also spray the Duro-Last membrane with water, or use a leaf blower to clear off any leaves in the fall.
If you’re thinking of putting a flat roof on your building, contact Duerson for a free roof analysis, and we’ll be able to give you our expertise on your roof.