Roof Cleaning Scams Are Getting More Common
Roof cleaning scams have become a growing problem in British Colombia and the pacific North-West. Social media has contributed to the increase in roof cleaning scams by promoting false claims of easy money through shoddy workmanship. Shady contractors exploit and prey on elderly and unsuspecting homeowners who are looking for quick and affordable roof cleaning services.
However, these contractors often cut corners and use low-quality materials, leading to subpar results and potential damages to the roof and surrounding structures. Proper roof cleaning is a complex and technical process that requires expensive equipment and specialized materials. It is important hire an exterior cleaning company that uses the right methods and materials to ensure the safety and longevity of your roof.
Using Powdered Laundry Detergent
Some contractors in the roof cleaning industry have been known to use powdered laundry detergent as a cheap alternative to specialized roof cleaning products. This practice is not only ineffective but can also be harmful to the the environment, the detergent can harm local wildlife and pollute nearby waterways.
foam forms eight feet high and several kilometers long in a creek in Abbotsford BC after a contractor used detergent to clean a 140 unit townhome complex nearby. B.C. creek fills with foam after laundry powder applied to nearby rooftops to control moss
Pressure Washing The Roof
Some roof cleaning companies may use pressure washing as a quick and cheap solution to cleaning, but this method can cause significant damage to the roof, particularly if the roof is made of shingles. The high pressure of the water can cause shingles to loosen or deteriorate, leading to leaks and other costly repairs. While some types of roofs, such as metal and concrete, can handle pressure washing, shingles should never be pressure washed. In addition, pressure washing can also void the roof's warranty.
Pictured above our technician is going to confront a shady contractor that we spotted pressure washing an elderly couples roof.
Only Brushing The Roof
Some roof cleaning companies may try to scam customers by only brushing the moss off the roof without using the proper chemicals to treat the issue. This is a temporary solution that will only result in the moss growing back within a few months, requiring the homeowner to pay for another cleaning. A proper roof cleaning requires brushing as well as the use of specialized chemicals that will kill the moss and prevent it from growing back. Homeowners should be cautious of companies that only offer only a brushing service.
Showing Up Without Equipment
A contractor arriving at a job in a small personal car without the proper tools indicates that they are not professional, they do not have the necessary experience or equipment to properly perform the work. This lack of proper equipment will result in shoddy workmanship and possibly damage to the roof or other property. In addition, the contractor may not have the proper safety equipment, making the homeowner liable for any accidents that occur on their property.
Professionals usually arrive in large vans or trucks that can handle the weight of all the equipment and hundreds of pounds of materials needed to perform the job properly.
Much Cheaper Than Other Quotes
A low price may be tempting, but it can also be a red flag when it comes to roof cleaning. Proper roof cleaning requires specialized equipment and materials, and a company that offers a price that is significantly lower than the market average may be cutting corners or using subpar materials.
Requesting a Large Down-payment
Requiring a large down-payment or a full payment before starting the job is a serious red flag, they may be more interested in collecting the money than delivering quality work. This practice puts the homeowner at risk of losing a substantial amount of money with no guarantee of the work being done or being done correctly. Our company does not accept any payment until the job is done and the client is satisfied.
Cutting Corners
Bad contractors often cut corners to save time and money. They may only clean areas that are visible from the ground and leave the gutters full. In addition, some shady contractors may wait until it is dark to collect payment, hoping that the homeowner will not be able to see any areas that were not properly cleaned.
No Online Presence
Lack of an online presence or not being able to show past work is a red flag. A reputable exterior detailing company should have a website and social media profiles, where they can showcase their work and customer reviews. Homeowners should be wary of contractors who don't have an online presence, this may indicate that they are not a legitimate or experienced. The homeowner may be at risk of receiving subpar work or falling victim to a scam.
