Clean roof with protective coating applied, showing smooth, water-repellent tiles on a modern home.

The Difference Between A Clean Roof And A Coated Roof (And Why You Might Need Both)

Let’s talk about your roof. Not the kind you decorate with fairy lights and hope will make it onto Pinterest, but the one protecting your home from rain, wind, and whatever else the British weather feels like throwing at us this week. A common question we get from homeowners is whether having a clean roof is enough or whether it’s worth going that extra step and having it coated, too. The short answer? Both a clean roof and coated roof play a key role in keeping your roof looking its best and lasting as long as possible.

What Exactly Is A Clean Roof?

A clean roof is one that has been professionally treated to remove moss, algae, lichen, and all the muck and grime that builds up over time. It’s more than just a cosmetic job. Cleaning your roof properly helps protect the structure underneath by stopping moisture from getting trapped where it shouldn’t be. That’s moisture which, if left alone, can lead to cracked tiles, damp in the loft, and costly repairs.

From our humble beginnings offering roof cleaning Colchester homeowners could rely on, we’ve grown into one of the most trusted names in exterior cleaning across England and Wales. But we haven’t forgotten where we came from, and many of our long-term clients are still right here in Essex. Whether it’s Essex roof cleaning for older properties or modern homes, we treat every roof with the same level of care and attention.

Our cleaning process uses specialist equipment and a softwash approach that’s tough on grime but gentle on your roof. We also use safe biocides to make sure moss and algae don’t come back too quickly. Every member of our team is trained in working at height, ladder safety, manual handling, and even first aid. Because safety is just as important to us as results.

What Is Roof Coating?

Our roof coating services are applied after your clean roof has fully dried. It’s a protective layer that helps repel water, block UV damage, and stop moss and algae from growing back. Think of it like putting a water repellent jacket on your roof. It keeps the elements out while letting the surface breathe underneath.

We use ProPERLA, the industry leader in exterior coatings. It’s not something you can grab from a shop shelf. Only approved companies can use it, and only if they meet strict quality standards. We’re proud to be one of the very few ProPERLA Platinum Applicators in the entire UK. Every job we complete using their products is reviewed and approved to make sure those high standards are being met, every single time.

Clean Roof Vs Coated Roof – What’s The Real Difference?
Clean roof with moss and algae removed, showing tidy tiles and restored surface after professional cleaning.

A clean roof gives you immediate results. It boosts your kerb appeal, helps improve drainage, and gets rid of damaging build-up. But if left uncoated, it’s only a matter of time before moss and algae find their way back. A coating adds that extra level of defence, helping your roof stay cleaner for much longer while also extending its lifespan.

This approach is especially popular with our commercial clients. Our commercial exterior cleaning services are often followed by a protective coating, because business owners know it saves money in the long run and keeps their premises looking professional.

Why You Might Need Both

We like to say that a clean is the prep and a coat is the protection. You wouldn’t paint a wall without cleaning it first, and you wouldn’t clean it just to leave it exposed again. When combined, a proper clean followed by a high-quality coating gives your roof the best chance of staying in top condition for years to come.

Whether you’re in Colchester, Chelmsford, or Cardiff, we’re here to help. From one home to the next, we’ve built our reputation on honesty, quality, and results that last. With over 1000 positive reviews on TrustATrader, more than any of our competitors, and more than 30 years in the business, you can trust that your roof is in the safest hands. Check out our blog, “Are You Overdue for a House Roof Cleaning Service? 6 Signs To Watch For

If you’re ready for a clean roof that looks great now and stays that way for the long haul, we’d love to hear from you. So, why not contact us today?

IMPORTANT NOTICE!!
IMPORTANT NOTICE!! There are a number of companies impersonating our genuine business to mislead customers. The Universal Renewables Group is made up of The Roof Cleaning Experts, Universal Eco Homes, East Anglian Spray Foam Removal, Paint My Roof and Universal Renewables LTD. We are not connected to any other companies in any other form, either implying to be us or our aftercare team. We care about all our customers, and if you are unsure, please call our head office for reassurance 0800 047 2404