Learning About Exterior Home Design

Retractable roofs are amazing if you have outdoor space, such as a patio, that gets varying level of sun throughout the day. They allow you to add a layer of comfort during the bright summer sun and also let you enjoy the night sky when the day is cooler. However, because retractable roofs are outside, they are going to need some cleaning in order to look their best. Here are some tips for making sure that you are able to clean your retractable roof as quickly and efficiently as possible.

1. Apply White Lithium Grease Annually

Luckily, there's not a lot that you have to do in order to keep your retractable roof in good repair. You first need to pay special attention to the mechanism that allows your retractable roof to open and close. The reason for this is that if this mechanism breaks, your roof isn't going to be able to be used at all. First, inspect the mechanism once a year and remove any dust using a cloth that will not leave any lint behind. Then, apply white lithium grease to the system. This can be purchased from the manufacturer of the retractable roof or from online stores. Also be sure that you are looking at the gasket. The gasket will need to be cleaned twice a year using mild dish washing detergent and a cloth that will not leave behind any lint, such as a microfiber towel. 

2. Use a Hose

Clean off your retractable roof's surface once before the summer begins and once after the summer ends in order to loosen dirt and clean it off easily. You can use a power washer on a low or medium setting. This will allow you to loosen any of the debris that might be on your roof. Then, apply dish washing detergent to a stiff brush and use that to scrub down the rest of your roof. Finally, use a normal hose to gently rinse off any remaining dirt and suds. This will allow you to quickly clean your retractable roof and will keep any of the dirt from settling in. If dirt does settle in, you will need to call a professional cleaning company in order to have them remove it without damaging the surface of the roof.

For more information, talk to a company that specializes in retractable roofing systems. They might have lubricant that they would prefer you to use.