Roof cleaning in Dortmund and surroundings
Treat moss, algae and deposits in a targeted way – with an approach suited to roof material and condition.
- Free on-site roof inspection
- Approach suited to the roof material
- Online price estimate
- Service in Dortmund & the Ruhr area
- Personal advice
DaviDO Roof Cleaning Check
Answer a few questions about your roof and get a non-binding initial assessment of which cleaning method is likely to be suitable.
The final cleaning method is determined after an on-site inspection by DaviDO Facility.
What type of roof do you have?
Please select an answer to continue.
Why is roof cleaning necessary?
The roof is one of the most important elements of a building. It protects the entire property from the weather and contributes significantly to energy efficiency and stability. Yet it often goes largely unnoticed for years — until visible soiling or damage appears.
Especially in Germany, where a damp climate, regular rainfall and variable temperatures prevail, moss and algae forming on roof surfaces is a widespread problem. These biological deposits aren't just a cosmetic flaw — they affect the function and durability of the roof in the long term.
Why do roofs get dirty?
Rain carries dirt particles onto the roof surface. Wind brings dust, pollen and organic material.
Moss, algae and lichen settle particularly in damp and shady areas.
Trees, foliage and high humidity encourage organic deposits to form.
In Dortmund and the Ruhr area, fine dust, soot and exhaust fumes also settle on the roof.
- Moisture is stored in the moss
- Roof tiles are permanently stressed
- Frost causes material damage (frost cracking)
- Water drainage is obstructed
- The roof loses quality visually and functionally
- Property value falls
- Moisture damage occurs in the roof structure
- Extends the roof's lifespan
- Protection against costly repairs
- Improves the look of the whole property
- Retains value when selling or letting
- Reduces moisture damage
- Prevents algae and moss formation
Important: Roof cleaning is not a cosmetic touch-up, but a preventive maintenance measure. It does not replace a roof refurbishment — but can often delay the need for one significantly and save costs.
Have your roof checked for free
We assess the condition of your roof on site and advise you on the right cleaning method. Free, non-binding and with a transparent assessment.
Which roofs can be cleaned?
Not every roof is the same. Different materials react very differently to moisture, dirt and mechanical stress. Professional roof cleaning therefore always begins with a material assessment.
Tile roofs (clay tiles)
The most common roof type in Germany
Characteristics
Durable, robust, good protection. A slightly porous surface retains moisture, which encourages moss growth — especially on north-facing sides and under trees.
Typical soiling
- •Moss growth (especially north-facing sides)
- •Algae and green deposits
- •Black fungal deposits
- •Fine dust and industrial soot
Recommended method
- Soft washing
- Mechanical moss removal
- Low water pressure
- Optional protective coating
Warning: High pressure can damage tiles, remove protective layers and cause frost damage.
Concrete roof tiles
Affordable & widely used
Characteristics
Sturdy and affordable. Over time the surface becomes rougher, causing dirt to stick faster than on new tiles. More prone to algae growth.
Typical problems
- •Heavy algae growth
- •Dark discolouration
- •Moss growth
- •Porous surface due to ageing
Cleaning recommendation
- Soft washing preferred
- Controlled low-pressure cleaning
- No aggressive high-pressure cleaning
Slate roofs
High quality & very sensitive
Characteristics
Very high quality, durable, water-repellent and extremely resistant. At the same time sensitive to mechanical stress — damaged surfaces let water penetrate.
Typical soiling
- •Light algae growth
- •Organic deposits
- •Soot and fine dust
- •Moss in joint areas
Cleaning
- Very gentle methods
- Soft brushes
- No high pressure
- Spot cleaning
Flat roofs
Bitumen, plastic, EPDM
Functionally particularly critical: standing water, moss growth and blocked drains are the most common problems.
Risk: Incorrect cleaning can damage the waterproofing and cause leaks.
- Very low pressure
- Manual cleaning
- Targeted drain cleaning
Garage roofs
Bitumen surfaces & small flat roofs
Often neglected, but important: moss growth, standing water and frost cracks are typical problems on garage roofs.
- Simple low-pressure methods
- Manual removal
- Checking the waterproofing
Expert tip: every roof needs individual treatment
A common mistake among poor-quality providers is using a single cleaning method for all roof types. Proper roof cleaning is always based on material assessment, roof pitch, age of the roof, level of soiling and surrounding conditions.
Not every roof can be treated the same way
Incorrect cleaning can cause more damage than the dirt itself. Free roof analysis, individual material assessment, gentle methods.
Request your free roof inspection nowWhat roof cleaning methods are there?
Choosing the right cleaning method is crucial for the roof's safety and lifespan. The wrong method can damage roof tiles, remove the protective layer or cause long-term moisture damage.
Soft washing
A gentle cleaning method using low water pressure and biodegradable agents. Moss, algae and biofilm are dissolved biologically — not blasted off. Suitability and the achievable result depend on material, condition and the chosen treatment.
- Ideal for sensitive roofs
- Deep-acting cleaning
- Removes algae roots
- Optional protective treatment
High-pressure cleaning
Water at strong pressure to mechanically remove dirt. Often underestimated: high pressure is problematic for roofs in most cases and can cause significant damage.
- Removal of the tile's protective layer
- Roughening of the roof surface
- Water penetrates under the roof skin
- Frost damage in winter
- Shortened roof lifespan
High pressure only in rare exceptional cases on sturdy industrial buildings.
Mechanical cleaning
Manual removal of moss and coarse growth using special brushes. Often used as a first phase before soft washing — especially with heavy moss infestation.
- Controlled removal
- No chemicals needed
- Targeted treatment
Not deep-acting on its own — ideal as preparation for soft washing.
Method comparison at a glance
| Method | Effect | Risk | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft washing | Very deep-acting | Very low | |
| High-pressure cleaning | Strong on the surface | High | |
| Mechanical | Effective in spots | Low |
Common myths about roof cleaning
How does professional roof cleaning work?
Proper roof cleaning doesn't follow a simple 'cleaning routine', but a clearly structured technical process. Every step is essential for a lasting result.
Roof inspection & analysis
Detailed on-site assessment: roof type, material, level of soiling, condition, pitch, accessibility and weather conditions are analysed.
Safety setup
Securing the site: scaffolding or safety systems, fall protection, cordoning off the work area, protecting gutters and surroundings.
Mechanical pre-cleaning
For heavy moss infestation: coarse growth is removed by hand, drains and gutters are cleaned. This phase significantly improves the effect of the main cleaning.
Main cleaning (soft washing)
Application of a biodegradable cleaner, dwell time to break down moss & algae, gentle rinsing at low pressure. Continues working for weeks afterwards.
Protective treatment (optional)
Anti-moss coating or hydrophobic sealant after cleaning. Significantly delays re-soiling and extends the cleaning effect for up to 10 years.
Final inspection & documentation
Visual inspection of the whole roof, checking gutters and drains, documentation of the result for you as the client.
Results that speak for themselves
See for yourself what professional roof cleaning achieves. The difference is immediately visible — and the effect is lasting.
Illustrative example
Illustrative example
Illustrative example
Illustrative example
Environmental regulations & legal standards
Roof cleaning in Germany is not just a technical matter but also an activity regulated under environmental law. We consistently comply with all regulations.
Regulates the protection of groundwater, surface water and soil quality. Cleaning water must not enter the environment uncontrolled — we use collection systems and controlled drainage systems.
The Federal Environment Agency issues guidelines on the environmental compatibility of cleaning agents. We use exclusively biodegradable, approved cleaning agents without aggressive industrial chemicals.
Only the minimum necessary concentration, preferably biodegradable agents, no aggressive industrial chemicals in residential areas. Waste water is filtered and disposed of properly.
BG BAU safety standards
Roof cleaning always takes place at height — that requires professional equipment and trained staff. BG BAU sets out clear safety standards.
- • Fall risk without a safety system
- • Incorrect technique → material damage
- • Use of aggressive household remedies
- • Walking on unstable roof surfaces
- • Liability issues for homeowners
Safety, expertise and the right technique are essential
Our roof cleaning doesn't just protect your roof — it also protects you from the risks of incorrect methods, accidents or follow-on damage.
Request your free roof analysis nowWhat does roof cleaning cost?
Costs depend on roof type, size, level of soiling and accessibility. A reputable price indication is always just guidance — every roof must be assessed individually.
Guide price from 590 €Rein: €14.90/m² up to 150 m², then €12.31/m². Rein + Schutz: €18.10–21.90/m². Coloured coating on request.
All prices include 19% VAT and travel within 25 km of Dortmund. Beyond that: €0.95 per one-way km beyond 25 km.
Private customers: approximately 20% of labour costs are tax-deductible (§35a EStG).
Non-binding guide price. Binding fixed price after inspection or photo check.
At band changes, the total never falls below the previous band's maximum.
* Guide prices. Exact prices after a free on-site inspection.
What do the costs depend on?
The larger the area, the lower the price per square metre.
Light dirt = less effort. Heavy moss requires intensive pre-cleaning.
Easy accessibility is cheaper. The need for scaffolding increases costs.
Steep roofs require more safety measures and equipment.
Logistics and labour costs can vary by region.
Protective treatment, gutter cleaning or inspection are calculated separately.
Very cheap offers are often based on uncontrolled high pressure, no assessment, untrained staff and inadequate safety measures. Possible consequences: damaged tiles, leaks, moisture in the roof structure and long-term refurbishment costs. Cheap cleaning can end up costing more than no cleaning at all.
How often should a roof be cleaned?
The frequency depends heavily on the surroundings and location.
Early warning signs
- Visible green moss
- Dark stains and discolouration
- Damp roof areas
- Uneven discolouration
- Blocked gutters
Common mistakes homeowners make
Destroys the tile surface, opens up pores, causes frost damage. Very widespread and very harmful.
Moss penetrates deeper, moisture increases, cleaning becomes more expensive and time-consuming.
Fall risk, incorrect technique, material damage and liability issues are typical consequences.
Without an anti-moss coating, soiling returns faster and the cleaning effect is shorter-lived.
Protective measures after cleaning
- Apply an anti-moss coating
- Hydrophobic sealant
- Regular visual inspection every 2–3 years
- Clean gutters annually
Roof cleaning in Dortmund & the Ruhr area
As a local specialist company we operate directly in Dortmund and the Ruhr area. Short distances, quick appointment scheduling and regional experience with the typical roof types in the Ruhr area.
Roof cleaning Dortmund: As a Dortmund-based specialist company, we offer free on-site visits in Dortmund and the surrounding towns.
Why customers choose DaviDO
- Free on-site roof inspection
- Material-appropriate cleaning — no blanket methods
- Soft washing instead of high pressure — safe and sustainable
- Transparent guide prices with no hidden costs
- Work to BG BAU standards and the WHG
- Fully insured — public liability
- Service in Dortmund & the Ruhr area
- Documented final report
This is what we promise you
Professional cleaning extends the service life of your roof and protects against costly follow-on damage.
Moss, algae and discolouration are removed — the original look becomes visible again.
By removing moisture-retaining moss, the roof is permanently under less strain.
Cleaning is significantly cheaper than a later refurbishment. Early care pays off.
Frequently asked questions about roof cleaning
Answers to the most important questions — from costs and methods to legal regulations.
Everything from a single source
Alongside roof cleaning, we offer all the key exterior cleaning services for your property.
Your roof deserves professional care — we make sure it gets it.
A dirty roof isn't just a cosmetic issue — it's a sign of long-term material stress. With professional roof cleaning you protect your investment, extend its lifespan and preserve the value of your property.
- Free on-site roof inspection
- Guide-price quote with no surprises
- Soft washing — gentle on materials & sustainable
- Service in Dortmund & the Ruhr area
Does your roof already need cleaning?
Have the condition checked beforehand — by photo or with a free on-site test service.