Cost Guide
When to Clean Your Tile Roof in Palm Beach County (and the Cost)
Black streaks down your barrel-tile roof are Gloeocapsa magma algae — and untreated, they trap heat and slowly degrade the tile. Here's when to clean a Palm Beach County tile roof, what to budget, and why the wrong vendor can cost you the whole roof.
The black streaks aren't just cosmetic
Gloeocapsa magma — the streak-causing algae on Florida roofs — feeds on the limestone filler in shingles and the porous surface of concrete tile. Left untreated, it shortens roof life and traps surface heat (your attic stays 10–15° hotter than it should). Most HOAs in PBC require roof cleaning within 60 days of a visible-streak notice.
Soft wash is the only safe method for tile
Concrete and clay tile crack under wand pressure. The ARMA (Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association) recommended method is chemistry-only soft wash: sodium-hypochlorite mix applied at chemical-only pressure, allowed to dwell, then rinsed at low volume. No spinning surface cleaner, no high-PSI wand. Any vendor who pressure-washes tile will eventually crack tiles.
Typical PBC pricing
$495–$795 for most single-story tile roofs under 2,500 sq ft. Larger or two-story tile roofs run $795–$1,495. Multi-story estate roofs (St. Andrews, Old Palm, Mirasol) routinely run $1,500–$3,500 depending on access and complexity. The price includes pre-treatment, dwell, rinse, gutter rinse, and a date-stamped photo report.
How long the clean lasts
3–5 years between cleanings for most exposures. Shaded north slopes and lake-edge homes are at the 2–3 year end of that range; sunny south slopes and open-lot homes are at the 4–5 year end. We tag your calendar and message a reminder when the next cleaning matters.
FAQ
Will roof cleaning void my warranty?+
Done with soft wash (ARMA method), no. Pressure-washing a roof voids most shingle manufacturer warranties. Always ask what method the vendor will use.
How often should a Palm Beach County tile roof be cleaned?+
Every 3–5 years for most. Annually inspect for visible streaking and re-clean when streaks return — not on a fixed calendar.
Need this handled now?
Local crew. Same-week scheduling across all of Palm Beach County.