When you book solar panel cleaning, should the surrounding roof get washed too?
That needs to be agreed on before the work starts. Panel glass, roofing, gutters and the space beneath an array each require their own assessment. A clear estimate tells you which areas the crew will clean and which need separate attention.
At PJ Solar, we’ve been serving homeowners since 2017. Our approach starts with identifying what needs cleaning and planning the work around the property.
For panel glass, our solar panel cleaning service uses DI water only. Roof washing requires a method appropriate to the roofing material. Combining both services on one visit still means planning each part of the job separately. If drainage channels also need attention, request gutter and roof valley cleaning in the same estimate.
Start with the roof material
An asphalt-shingle roof and a tile roof should not automatically receive the same treatment.
The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association advises against using high-pressure washing to clean asphalt roofing because it can damage the material. Its guidance also says cleaning methods should follow the shingle manufacturer’s instructions. That guidance applies to asphalt roofing; it should not be treated as a cleaning specification for every tile roof.
Before accepting an estimate, ask how the proposed cleaning method fits your roof. “Roof washing” alone does not explain the equipment, preparation or areas included.
Tell the crew about the solar system
Mention the panels when requesting roof washing, even if you are not booking panel cleaning. Also mention existing bird-proofing mesh, recent roof repairs or solar equipment that has been moved.
Useful questions to ask include:
- Which roof sections are included, and can they be reached with the panels in place?
- How will the solar equipment and surrounding property be protected?
- Is panel-glass cleaning included?
- Does the quote include removing debris from gutters and roof valleys?
- Will any existing bird-proofing barrier need attention?
If a crew cannot reach a roof section beneath the array, the estimate should make that limitation clear. Do not assume a roof-washing appointment includes removing solar panels.
Decide on additional work before the appointment
If you originally booked panel cleaning but also want the roof washed, tell us before the visit. Adding roof work changes what needs to be assessed, the time required and potentially the crew or equipment needed.
PJ Solar’s roof-washing service follows an assessment, quote, preparation, agreed cleaning and final review. Related services are assessed and quoted for their own scope.
Keep the maintenance schedules clear
For panel glass, I generally recommend cleaning about every six months, adjusted to dust, birds, trees and other conditions at your property. That does not mean every roof needs washing on the same schedule.
For customers with our Bird-B-Gone mesh and clips, annual cleaning and inspection are required to maintain PJ Solar’s five-year bird-proofing labor warranty. We coordinate that inspection with the cleaning visit. Let us know if other roof or solar work has disturbed the barrier.
To discuss your property, visit PJ Solar Roof Washing or call 760-590-8516. Tell us your city, roof type if known, and which areas need attention. Photos taken safely from the ground can help start the conversation.