Sunroom Roof Cleaning

When to Clean a Sunroom Roof

• If you live in an area where it's warm year-round, keep a regular schedule for cleaning your sunroom roof. Depending on the sunroom's surroundings, it may need to be cleaned more or less often, but generally it will need cleaning at least three or four times a year. If you live in an area with four seasons, give the roof a good cleaning every spring once the weather warms up, then again in the summer. Of course, any time the roof looks dirty, or if there are leaves or other debris blocking the sunlight, it's time for a cleaning.

Safety Concerns

• The biggest concern when it comes to cleaning a glass sunroom roof yourself is safety. There is the obvious hazard of falling, but it's more than that -- unlike a traditional roof, you can't get on top of it to clean it. The glass is designed to withstand a lot, but it may break under a person's body weight. You should always clean from the safety of a scaffolding set up next to the sunroom, or, for quick jobs, a sturdy ladder.

Equipment Needed

• Scaffolding may be rented from a home and garden center to ensure safer glass roof cleaning. You'll also need a hose long enough to reach the roof and a extension attachment with a brush at the end. A long broom may be used to brush away leaves and other debris, and an extending microfiber mop can spot clean, with or without window cleaner. A extension-pole squeegee is a handy tool for keeping your sunroom bright top to bottom.

DIY vs Hiring a Professional

• For simple leaf removal or spray washing, cleaning your glass sunroof yourself can save you a lot of money, but for major cleanings, the risks may outweigh the benefits. Professionals have all the right equipment and know how to clean your roof safely -- and the end result is often dramatically brighter. It's a good idea to have a pro do the heavy work, such as the spring cleaning, but you'll be able to enjoy a cleaner roof if you're able to do some basic maintenance cleaning as needed.