Stained by algae or not, roofs are cleaned using any of three common methods, each of which has its own set of pros and cons. These methods are, pressure washing, and the application of solutions containing either, chlorine bleach or sodium hydroxide. When performed correctly and only once, these techniques clean roofs effectively without significant adverse effects. The problem is, they usually have to be repeated every six to 18 months to maintain cleanliness.

Chlorine Solution Washes: Chlorine bleach solution application requires a lot less rinsing than the two other methods, thereby allowing a cleaning procedure of shorter duration. One good consequence of a quicker process is less wear and tear for the roof. However, chlorine can be toxic to some people and plants, so care should be exercised to protect employees or residents, as well as the property itself, from spray runoffs. Asphalt shingle roofs are particularly well adapted to this type of cleaning.

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Sodium Hydroxide-Based Cleaning: This type of roof cleaning method can be very effective at degreasing roofs. However, this cleaning method takes a much longer time than chlorine bleach washing because the sodium hydroxide needs to be thoroughly rinsed. As a consequence, a roof becomes more at risk for being damaged. A force of 100 psi is enough to wash away the cleaning solution on asphalt shingle roofs, but the force is enough to cause some asphalt granules to get washed away during the rinsing process. Advertisements claim that sodium hydroxide is safe to use, but it can actually be toxic. Thus, make sure that the solution does not run off or come into contact with people, plants and anything in the surrounding area during the application and rinsing process. In addition, sodium hydroxide is corrosive so any residues left can damage the roof, particularly those that are made of asphalt shingles.

Pressure Washing: If you have a concrete, barrel tile or metal roof, you can clean it by power washing. Power washing does not involve the use of chemicals, which makes power washing an environment-friendly method of roof cleaning. However, power washing is rather time consuming and can put more strain on the roof. If you have coated roof tiles, the thin layer of coloring can be easily washed away by power washing. If you have a concrete roof, power washing will bring out the concrete's natural gray color, and this could mean that you will have to paint or stain the roof afterwards.

How To Clean Your Roof - The Right Way


David Lee is an expert on pressure washing and concrete cleaning. For more information see Atlanta pressure washing or Atlanta concrete cleaning or Atlanta roof cleaning.

Ever wonder how to clean a coffee maker the right way? Drip coffee makers need to be cleaned at least once a month to keep your coffee tasting good.

Cleaning your coffee maker takes away hard water mineral deposits, old oils from previously brewed pots and other impurities that can make your coffee taste bad.

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A mixture of 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water is the best way to clean a drip coffee maker. Mix a full pot of the vinegar and water mixture, pour it in your water reservoir and turn the coffee maker on.

Once the mixture has run completely through, it's important to turn the drip coffee maker off and let it cool for 15 to 20 minutes.

Pour the vinegar and water mixture down the drain. If you are cleaning a coffee maker that hasn't been cleaned regularly, repeat this step again with a fresh vinegar and water mixture.

Next, rinse the pot out thoroughly with warm, plain water. Then, fill the water reservoir again with clean water and turn the coffee maker on to start the rinsing process.

To make sure all of the vinegar and water solution is completely gone repeat the rinsing process one more time after letting the pot cool for 15 to 20 minutes.

This is how to clean a coffee maker the right way. Cleaning your drip coffee maker on a monthly basis will make it last longer and keep your coffee tasting the best it can possibly be.

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How To Clean A Coffee Maker


This article is supplied by Best Coffee Makers where you can easily shop and compare coffee makers so you can purchase exactly what you’re looking for at great values.

Hard wood, laminate and tile flooring has returned, as home sellers look for ways to provide more appeal to their homes, as well as increasing the resell value. Others who are simply looking for remodeling projects, are resorting to removing the old wall to wall carpeting and replacing it with alternative flooring. However, for comfort, added colors and textures to home decor, the area rugs have made a come back with pizazz.

The newer rugs are made with an array of colors, textures, styles and fibers. The choice of fibers, should be taken into consideration for comfort, as well as durability. Although, more costly, the best choice for durability is the natural fibers such as wool, cotton, silk and leather. The synthetic materials are hypoallergenic, easy to clean, stain resistant, as well as colorfast. The primary concern should be the area where the new floor covering will be used. High traffic areas should be easy to clean, moisture resistant, as well as slip resistant. The 6 x 9 rug is perfect for use in the bedroom, bath, or as a welcome mat. The 6x9 rugs, with the the variety of pop and contemporary designs, add to the decor as a wall hanging.

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The braided and oriental types are made with synthetic and natural fibers, providing a decorative touch. Choosing the cotton fibers is a great choice for the family room, making it more comfortable to lie on. The braided style is not longer a rug consisting of a few intertwined colors. The braided style of rug continues to have the authentic country look, while manufactures have incorporated designs to accommodate the more contemporary look, which will fit with any decor.

The choices of wool types are unlimited. Wool requires a little bit more attention than synthetic materials. A daily vacuuming will suffice for preventing the dust and dirt from becoming embedded. There are spray carpet cleaning foams which work well. Household cleaners, and bleach should not be used on wool, as they may damage the colors and fibers. Although the oriental and Persian tpes are made of wool, they also come in synthetic materials. For a soft plushness, consider those made from New Zealand or Persian wool, which are normally handmade. Regardless of size or fiber, the assortments of rugs will certainly add comfort, and style to any room in the home.

Complete The Finishing Touch With a Rug


If you are looking for more great info on rugs Dave Gorski recommends: http://www.freshrugs.com