How Much Does Roof Cleaning Cost? (Prices, Methods & What’s Included)

If your roof is looking green, patchy, or covered in moss, you’re not alone. With the UK’s damp weather and shaded areas, moss and algae build-up is very common. A professional roof clean can instantly improve kerb appeal and help prevent long-term roof and gutter issues.

But the big question is: how much does it cost to clean a roof?

In this guide, we’ll explain typical roof cleaning costs in UK, the methods available, and what you should expect to be included in the price.

Roof Cleaning Costs UK: Average Prices

In the UK, most homeowners pay between:

£400 – £1,500 for professional roof cleaning

Your final quote will depend on roof size, moss level, access, and the cleaning method. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Small terraced house: £400 – £700
• Semi-detached house: £600 – £1,000
• Detached house: £900 – £1,500+
• Bungalow: £500 – £1,200
• Large/complex roofs: £1,500 – £3,000+

If your roof has heavy moss build-up, your overall roof cleaning prices may increase due to extra labour and waste removal.

What Affects the Cost to Clean Roof?

When comparing roof cleaning near me prices, it helps to know what changes the cost.

1) Roof size and pitch

Bigger roofs take longer, and steep roofs require extra safety measures, which can increase roof cleaning costs.

2) Moss thickness and staining

Light staining is quicker to treat. Thick moss requires manual scraping first, which increases the overall cost to clean roof.

3) Access and safety requirements

Difficult access, height, conservatories, or restricted space may increase roof cleaning prices, especially if scaffolding is required.

4) Roof type

Most roofs in the UK can be cleaned safely, but some materials need extra care:

• Concrete tiles: common and durable
• Clay tiles: require gentle cleaning
• Slate roofs: need careful handling to avoid movement or breakage

5) Cleaning method used

The method chosen makes a big difference to the final cost.

Roof Cleaning Cost Calculator: Can You Estimate a Price?

Many people search for a roof cleaning cost calculator, but roof cleaning isn’t always a fixed price. Every property is different, and online calculators often miss key details like roof pitch, moss thickness, and access.

A good guideline is:

• Lower end for smaller roofs with light build-up
• Higher end for bigger roofs with heavy moss and tough access

For accurate roof cleaning costs UK, it’s always best to get a quick quote based on roof photos or a site visit.

Roof Cleaning Methods (With Typical Costs)

A professional company will choose the safest approach based on your roof’s condition.

1) Manual Moss Removal (Scraping)

Manual scraping is often the first step for roofs with heavy moss.

How it works:

Moss is removed carefully using specialist tools designed to protect tiles. Debris is collected and removed, followed by a tidy-up.

• Typical cost: £400 – £1,200
• Best for: Heavy moss build-up
• Pros: Safe for tiles, low risk
• Cons: Works best when followed by a treatment

Many companies combine scraping with a soft wash treatment to reduce return moss and keep long-term roof cleaning costs lower.

2) Soft Washing (Low Pressure Roof Cleaning)

Soft washing is a popular method that uses specialist cleaning solutions to break down algae, lichen, and staining, followed by a low-pressure rinse where required.

• Typical cost: £500 – £1,500
• Best for: Light to medium moss + algae staining
• Pros: Tile-safe, longer-lasting results
• Cons: Thick moss often needs scraping first

If you’re comparing roof cleaning near me prices, soft washing is often the best balance between safety and results.

3) Heated Roof Cleaning

Heated roof cleaning uses hot water to loosen dirt, algae, and organic growth. It can deliver a premium finish and may reduce the need for strong chemicals.

• Typical cost: £700 – £2,000+
• Best for: Stubborn staining and deep cleaning
• Pros: Excellent results, gentle on tiles
• Cons: Usually more expensive

This is a great choice if you want a high-quality clean and long-lasting improvement.

4) Pressure Washing (Not Recommended for Most Roofs)

Some contractors still offer pressure washing, but it can cause damage if done incorrectly. High pressure may:

• Crack tiles
• Strip surface coatings
• Dislodge ridge pointing
• Push water under tiles

 

• Typical cost: £400 – £1,200
• Best for: Limited cases only, with experienced professionals
• Cons: Higher risk compared to soft washing

Most reputable companies will recommend safer alternatives to protect your roof and avoid expensive repairs.

What’s Included in Roof Cleaning Prices?

When homeowners ask about roof cleaning costs, they often assume it’s just “a quick wash.” A professional roof clean usually includes multiple steps.

Roof inspection

Before starting, the team should check:

• Tile condition
• Loose or broken tiles
• Moss coverage
• Safe working access

This ensures the method used is suitable.

Cleaning or moss removal (depending on method)

Your quote may include:

• Manual moss scraping
• Soft wash solution application
• Heated cleaning
• Controlled rinsing/finishing

Debris collection and disposal

A proper service includes cleaning up moss and waste from:

• Roof edges and valleys
• Gutters (if included)
• Pathways and outdoor areas

Gutter clearing (included or optional)

Roof moss often ends up blocking gutters. Many companies include gutter clearing or offer it as an add-on. This is worth confirming when comparing roof cleaning near me prices.

Final clean-up

The job shouldn’t be left messy. A professional finish includes:

• Clearing debris from surrounding areas
• Washing down affected surfaces
• Leaving your property safe and tidy
• Before and after photos

Before and after photos help you clearly see the results, especially if your roof isn’t visible from the ground.

Optional Extras That Can Increase Roof Cleaning Costs

Some extras add cost but improve the final result and reduce maintenance.

Biocide treatment for moss (recommended)

A biocide treatment helps kill remaining spores and slows regrowth.

• Typical add-on cost: £100 – £300
• Why it matters: Helps keep your roof cleaner for longer and improves value for money.

Roof sealing

Roof sealing adds a protective layer that can help reduce water absorption and improve durability.

• Typical cost: £800 – £2,500+
• Best for: Older or porous roofs (subject to inspection)
• Note: Not every roof is suitable for sealing.

Fascia, soffit & gutter exterior cleaning

This improves the overall look after roof cleaning.

• Typical add-on cost: £100 – £400

What’s the Cost to Clean Roof?

So, what’s the real cost to clean roof in the UK?

For most properties, roof cleaning costs UK range from £400 to £1,500, depending on size, access, moss build-up, and method used.

If you want safe, long-lasting results, manual moss removal + soft washing is one of the most popular options. For a premium finish, heated roof cleaning is a great upgrade.

If you’d like an accurate quote (instead of relying on a basic roof cleaning cost calculator), it’s always best to request a professional assessment and confirm exactly what’s included.

Please note that the pricing information in this blog is based on market research. Actual costs may vary depending on your location, the service provider, and the type of cleaning required.

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