Anchor Pro Wash removes black streaks, algae, moss, and lichen from asphalt shingle and metal roofs using a safe low-pressure soft washing method that cleans thoroughly without damaging your shingles or voiding manufacturer warranties.
Pressure washing a roof is one of the most damaging things you can do to asphalt shingles. High pressure blasts away the protective granules that shield the shingle material from UV damage, dramatically shortening the life of your roof. It can also force water under shingles and into the roof deck.
Soft washing uses low pressure combined with a biodegradable cleaning solution that kills algae, moss, lichen, and the bacteria causing black streaks at the root. Because the organisms are killed rather than just rinsed, results last far longer than any pressure treatment.
This method is specifically recommended by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) and is safe for asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and tile. Anchor Pro Wash uses soft washing on every residential roof in Traverse City and Northern Michigan.
We assess the roof condition, identify algae, moss, and lichen growth, note any damaged or lifted shingles, and protect gutters, landscaping, and downspouts before starting.
A biodegradable soft wash solution is applied at low pressure across all affected roof surfaces. The solution immediately begins breaking down algae, moss, and bacterial growth.
The solution is allowed to dwell on the surface, penetrating and killing organisms at the root rather than just rinsing the visible surface layer. This is what makes results last.
A gentle low-pressure rinse clears all residue and dead growth. We do a final check of the roof and surrounding areas before wrapping up.
Northern Michigan's humidity, tree canopy, and lake-effect moisture create ideal conditions for roof growth. Most homeowners notice the problem only after it has been growing for years.
The dark staining running down most residential roofs is a cyanobacteria that feeds on limestone in shingles and spreads roof to roof.
Algae growth is common on north-facing and shaded roof sections. It retains moisture and degrades shingle material over time.
Moss holds water against shingles and can lift edges as it grows, allowing moisture to penetrate the roof deck beneath.
Lichen attaches directly to the shingle surface and is the most aggressive growth type. Soft wash treatment kills it at the root.
Algae, moss, and lichen actively degrade shingle material and hold moisture that accelerates rot and deterioration. Regular soft washing removes the organisms before they cause lasting damage.
Black streaks and green staining make even well-maintained homes look neglected. Roof washing restores the original color and appearance of your shingles without replacement.
A roof that looks old and dirty from organic staining may actually have years of life left. Cleaning is a fraction of the cost of replacement and can defer that expense significantly.
Don't take our word for it. Here's what real Traverse City homeowners say about working with Anchor Pro Wash.
Anchor Pro Wash did our home, deck and fence and cleaned all of our windows. Jason stayed in constant communication from the day I booked the appointment until he left our property with the job completed. He arrived exactly when he said he would and did an incredible job at a very fair price. He sent me a video with a complete walk around the house showing me the "after." It looks amazing! I would highly recommend Jason and his team!
Our new to us house needed a good power wash! This company scheduled us quickly and performed the service as expected. The house to my knowledge had never been power washed before. It was a tan siding and it looked so much brighter.
Jason and team just did our spring cleanup and exceeded our expectations. They handled moss treatment, power washed the roof and eaves, and cleaned the windows. Everything looks great! Excellent communication, and good value. Fantastic job!
I had Jason power wash our patio and house this weekend and today they cleaned our windows. Our windows are exceptionally clean and Jason has always done a great job and our patio looks new. Highly recommend them.
So glad we went with Anchor Pro Wash! Did an amazing job and they were able to get the water and rust stains off that were on a few places. Will definitely be using them again for any future needs.
WOW!! My house is a totally different color than when they started. I was a bit skeptical when Jason told me I was going to be floored by the difference, but man was he right! We had a "problem" wall that had mildew on it from living in the woods that someone had tried to remove before with no success. They got rid of every last dot. SO happy we chose Anchor Pro Wash.
Anchor Pro Wash uses a low-pressure soft washing method for all roof cleaning, not high-pressure washing. This allows us to treat algae, moss, mildew, and black staining thoroughly without blasting or damaging asphalt shingles. High pressure can loosen the protective granules on shingles and void manufacturer warranties, which is why soft washing is the correct approach.
Yes. When done correctly with the right method and solutions, soft washing is safe for asphalt shingle roofs. High pressure is the issue to avoid because it can loosen granules and shorten shingle life, which is why we use low-pressure application combined with roof-safe cleaning solutions on every job.
Yes. Black roof streaks are caused by a bacteria called Gloeocapsa magma that feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles. Soft wash treatment eliminates that organic growth and helps restore a cleaner, more even appearance to the shingle surface.
Yes. Anchor Pro Wash treats all common organic roof growth including algae, moss, mildew, and lichen. Heavier moss or lichen may release gradually after treatment rather than disappearing immediately, which actually protects the shingles by avoiding aggressive mechanical removal. The growth is killed at the root and continues to clear over time following the treatment.
Roofs in Traverse City and Northern Michigan collect moisture, shade, tree debris, and organic material that create ideal conditions for growth. Black streaks are typically the Gloeocapsa magma bacteria, while green growth is usually moss or mildew that thrives in damp or shaded areas. North-facing roof sections and areas under tree canopy tend to develop growth the fastest.
No. We take steps to protect surrounding areas before and during roof washing, including rinsing landscaping and managing runoff carefully. The goal is to safely clean the roof without affecting your plants, siding, gutters, or other exterior surfaces. We walk the property before starting to address any specific concerns.
Most homes benefit from roof cleaning every few years, though the right interval depends on shade, nearby trees, moisture levels, roof age, and how quickly algae or moss returns after treatment. Homes surrounded by trees or in damp low-lying areas typically need service more frequently than homes in open sun-exposed locations.
Removing algae, moss, and organic buildup helps prevent moisture from sitting against the shingle surface, which is one of the primary causes of premature shingle deterioration. Roof washing is not a substitute for needed repairs, but regular cleaning can help protect the roof from unnecessary organic damage and extend the useful life of your shingles.
Roof washing cost depends on roof size, pitch, material, accessibility, the amount of moss or algae growth, and overall condition. Every roof is different, so Anchor Pro Wash provides free, no-obligation estimates before any work begins so you know the price upfront. Request your free estimate →
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