How to Remove Rust From the Roof

Inspecting the roof

Oftentimes, a roof acquires rust from metal fixtures such as antennas or chimneys. A homeowner will not be able to remove rust with a regular cleaning solution and power washer alone. The steps below will help any homeowner successfully and safely remove rust from a roof.

Things You'll Need

• An oxalic acid concentrate
• Rubber cleaning gloves
• Boots or non-slip shoes
• Ladder
• Garden hose with spray attachment
• Roof cleaning solution
• Power washer (optional)
• Painter’s plastic (optional)

Instructions

1. First of all, gather and prepare your supplies. Be sure your garden hose is long enough to reach the roof and has a spray attachment or use a power washer. Wear non-slip shoes or boots to prevent slipping on the wet roof tiles. When leaning the ladder against the roof, make sure the ground is level and the ladder sturdy before attempting to climb onto the roof. Put on your rubber gloves before handling the oxalic acid concentrate and mixing the cleaning solution.

2. Wet down the entire rusted area with your hose allowing the water to dampen the surface. Once the water has dampened the shingles, spray the oxalic acid concentrate onto the entire surface and let it sit for five minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water. Be sure to keep the oxalic acid in its concentrate form.

3. The final step involves cleaning the entire roof surface; otherwise, your roof will contain a glaring bleach spot. Every roof cleaning solution will have different application requirements, so be sure to read the label. If the solution requires scrubbing, try using a power washer as this will save time and backache.

Tips & Warnings

• Oxalic acid will remove rust from nearly any surface including asphalt, cement, wood and stucco.

• You may want to cover any plants below with painter’s plastic as the oxalic acid and cleaning solution could damage or kill them.

• When removing rust from wood, use the oxalic acid on the entire surface as the acid bleaches the wood.