Roof cleaning in Cape Coral is done by soft washing: a sodium hypochlorite solution is applied at low pressure, left to kill the algae, then rinsed off gently. A single-story tile roof typically costs $500–$950, a shingle roof $350–$600 and a metal roof $450–$900. We never put a high-pressure wand on a roof.
What the black streaks are
The dark stripes running down a roof from the ridge are a blue-green algae (often called Gloeocapsa magma). It feeds on the limestone filler in shingles and settles happily into the texture of concrete tile. In our heat and humidity it spreads every rainy season, and the streaks get darker as the algae builds a protective coating against the sun.
Left alone, it does more than look bad. A dark roof absorbs more heat, lichen and moss move in behind the algae, and on shingles the growth holds moisture against the granules.
Why we never pressure wash a roof
Concrete and clay tiles are heavy but brittle at the edges, and they are set on a bed of mortar or foam adhesive. A pressure stream can crack corners, lift tiles and blow water under the laps. Shingle roofs are worse: the asphalt roofing industry's own guidance is not to pressure wash shingles at all, because it strips the granules that protect the mat. Metal roofs can lose their finish at the seams.
Soft washing keeps the pressure at about what a garden hose delivers. The chemistry does the work, which is also why the roof stays clean for years rather than months.
How a roof cleaning visit goes
- We check the roof from the ground and, where it is safe, from the eave: cracked or slipped tiles get photographed and pointed out before we touch anything.
- Plants, the pool and the lanai below are wetted and protected; downspouts are directed away from beds.
- The solution goes on from the bottom up at low pressure and sits for a short dwell time.
- A gentle rinse carries it off, then the walls, gutters and plants below are rinsed again.
Some streaks keep fading over the next few rains as the dead algae washes away. That is normal, and we tell you to expect it.
Tile, shingle or metal: what changes
Tile takes the longest because of the surface area hidden in each curve, and two-story tile roofs need more setup. Shingle roofs clean quickly but need the lightest touch. Metal roofs show the cleanest result, though older painted metal may already be chalking, which we will point out before quoting so you are not surprised by a faded panel.
What roof cleaning costs
| Job | Estimated price | What moves it |
|---|---|---|
| Tile roof, single-story home | $500–$950 | Roof area, steepness, how heavy the growth is |
| Tile roof, two-story home | $1,000–$1,600 | Extra setup and access |
| Tile by area | $0.20–$0.40 / sq ft | Large or complex roofs |
| Shingle roof | $350–$600 | Shingle condition; lightest treatment |
| Metal roof | $450–$900 | Panel finish and seams |
Estimates only. Roof prices here are estimates, not a quote. Square footage, pitch, a second story and how long the algae has been building all change the number we write down after seeing the roof. See every price.
Roof cleaning questions
How often does a roof need cleaning in Cape Coral?
Every two to three years for most tile roofs. Roofs under trees or beside a canal can need it sooner.
Will the cleaning solution hurt my pool or lanai?
Not with the precautions we take. We wet and rinse the areas below, keep the pool covered or the water line protected where needed, and do not let runoff sit.
My HOA wants the roof cleaned by a deadline. Can you meet it?
Usually. Give us the date when you book and we will schedule ahead of it and send photos you can forward to the association.
Want a firm price?Send a few photos or book a look. You get the number in writing before we start.
Call (239) 510-1496Last reviewed October 8, 2026.