The dark, dirty brown to black discoloration commonly seen on roofs in Florida frequently mistaken for dirt or soot, is often a destructive bacteria known as Gloeocapsa Magma, which is a type of algae known as fungus or mildew.  This algae damages the surface of your roof by infiltrating the pores of your tiles and consuming the organic materials making up  your shingle roofing, weakening fibers and reducing the lifespan fo your roof.  The the longer these microbial growths remain on your roof , the more extensive the damage.

1. Prolonged lifespan: Algae and mildew can degrade roofing materials over time, leading to premature deterioration. Cleaning them off helps extend the life of your roof.
2. Prevents damage: Algae and mildew can weaken roofing materials, causing granule loss and deterioration of shingles or tiles. Regular cleaning helps prevent structural damage and ensures the roof remains intact.
3. Improves energy efficiency: A clean roof reflects more sunlight, reducing heat absorption and helping to lower cooling costs during hot weather.
4. Enhanced aesthetics: Removing algae and mildew restores the appearance of your roof, eliminating unsightly discoloration and stains.
5. Preserves property value: A well-maintained roof enhances the curb appeal of your home and contributes to its overall value, making it more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future.

Pressure washing is generally considered a destructive and ineffective method to clean your roof.

1. Damage to roofing materials: The high pressure of the water stream can cause significant damage to delicate roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, tiles, or wood shakes. It can dislodge granules, break tiles, and even strip away protective coatings, leading to premature deterioration and the need for costly repairs or replacement.
2. Water penetration: Pressure washing can force water under the shingles or tiles, potentially leading to water infiltration into the roof structure and causing leaks or moisture-related issues inside the building.
3. Spread of algae and mold: Pressure washing may not effectively remove algae, mold, or mildew from the roof surface. Instead, it can spread spores to other areas of the roof, leading to faster regrowth and the need for more frequent cleaning.
4. Voided warranties: Many roofing manufacturers explicitly state that pressure washing voids the warranty on their products. Using this method for cleaning could result in losing warranty coverage for your roof.
5. Risk of injury: Working on a roof with high-pressure equipment can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced individuals. Slippery surfaces combined with the force of the water jet increase the risk of falls and injuries.

Several factors influence the cost of cleaning a roof in Tampa, Florida:

1. Roof size: The square footage of your roof is a significant factor in determining the cost. Larger roofs generally require more time and resources to clean, so they tend to cost more.

2. Roof type: Different roofing materials require different cleaning methods and may vary in complexity. 

3. Roof condition: The extent of dirt, algae, mold, or other contaminants on your roof can affect the cost. Heavily soiled roofs may require more extensive cleaning and potentially additional treatments, impacting the overall price.

4. Accessibility: The ease of access to your roof can affect the cost. If your roof is difficult to reach or requires special equipment for cleaning, it may increase the overall price

5. Additional services: Additional services such as gutter cleaning, or the application of protective coatings may be offered for an extra cost.

6. Experience & Expertise: Prices can vary between different roof cleaning companies based on their level of expertise, reputation, and overhead costs.