Knowledge Hub / Question
How do you clean a patio, pergola or polycarbonate roof?
Answered by Luke at Westside Roof Cleaning & Soft Wash, with more than 12 years on Perth roofs.
Patio roofs made of polycarbonate, Laserlite or Colorbond are best cleaned with a soft wash. It removes mould, dirt and bird droppings from the top and the underside without scratching the sheets. High pressure and stiff brushes can scratch polycarbonate and make it cloudy.
The tricky part
Polycarbonate sheets usually can’t be walked on, they scratch easily, and dirt builds up inside the corrugations. The underside of Colorbond patios often grows mould that’s hard to reach from a ladder.
How we do it
- Clean from ladders, platforms or the edge of the structure rather than walking on the sheets.
- Apply a soft wash solution to break down mould and grime.
- Rinse gently, including the underside if needed.
- Clear any leaves or debris from the gutters and the joins.
Damaged sheets
If a sheet is cracked or has a hole, it’s usually best to clean the patio before the sheet is replaced, so the new sheet doesn’t stand out against dirty ones. Mention it when you request a quote.
Related services: Soft Washing