How much does roof cleaning cost in Australia in 2025?

Professional roof cleaning costs range from $35 to $120 per hour, and depending on the size and condition of the roof, cleaning jobs can reach $300 to $600.

Key takeaways Roof cleaning costs vary significantly by state, with NSW being the most expensive ($60 to $90/hour) and WA the most affordable ($35 to $50/hour). Annual cleaning is recommended to prevent costly damage and extend roof life, but certain areas in Australia may need cleaning more often. Soft wash methods cost $1,000 to $2,000, while high-pressure cleaning ranges from $400 to $980.

Dark streaks, moss patches, and accumulated debris on your roof aren’t just eyesores—they’re warning signs. Across Australia’s diverse climate zones, regular roof maintenance is essential for preserving your home’s structural integrity, maintaining its value, and preventing costly damage. 

While basic cleaning starts around $150, on average, a comprehensive service with protective treatments offers better long-term value. This is slightly lower than the average cost of roof and gutter cleaning when availed separately. That’s why understanding typical roof cleaning costs before scheduling a service is important to help you budget appropriately and avoid unexpected expenses. 

How much is roof cleaning in Australia?

Disclaimer: Roof cleaning costs in Australia vary widely depending on the state or territory and the size, pitch, accessibility, and condition of the roof. Use the prices in this article only as a benchmark when setting your budget.

The cost of roof cleaning varies significantly across Australian states and territories. It generally ranges from $300 to $600, depending on the roof’s complexity, size, and other factors. Therefore, the more expensive your roof is, the more expensive it is to clean proportionally. A typical roof cleaning cost calculator looks like this:

State/Territory	Average hourly rate	Job cost range
NSW	$60 to $90	$300 to $600
VIC	$45 to $55	$150 to $450
WA	$35 to $50	$120 to $400
QLD	$40 to $60	$150 to $500
SA	$40 to $55	$130 to $450
TAS	$35 to $50	$120 to $400
ACT	$55 to $85	$180 to $550
NT	$45 to $65	$150 to $500

In some cases, providers may charge per square metre, especially for pressure washing or chemical treatments, with prices ranging from $3 to $5 per m². Additional services like gutter cleaning or tile resealing can also increase the overall cost.

Extends the lifetime of your current roof

Replacing a roof can be an expensive repair. However, correctly maintaining a roof’s surface can extend its longevity by years. 

Removes moss and algae

A professional roof cleaner will remove moss and algae that can spread and cause problems with rain runoff. When channels become blocked from draining, rain erosion can occur.

Improves your home’s overall appearance

An attractive roof will enhance your home’s appearance. If yellow moss or black algae are growing across your roof, it gives the impression of a poorly maintained house. 

Having a professional clean your roof lowers the risk of roof damage

A roof tile cleaning cost is worth the money and will help prevent damage to susceptible areas of your roof.

When it comes to roof cleaning, the price tag isn’t set in stone. These are the main factors that will shape the total cost of a roof cleaning service. 

Size and pitch

The size and pitch of your roof significantly impact roof cleaning cost per square metre. More man-hours and cleaning supplies mean a higher final price tag for larger roofs. Typical roof cleaning prices often range from $2 to $7 per square metre.

• Small (100-150m²): $90–$150
• Medium (150-250m²): $150–$300
• Large (250m²+): $300–$550

In addition, steep roofs with a pitch greater than 30° typically incur up to a 30% surcharge due to additional safety requirements and the time needed.

Material

Different roofing materials require specific cleaning methods, especially in Australia’s diverse climate. The right technique and tools are essential to avoid damage from coastal salt exposure to intense inland UV radiation. Here’s a table detailing the typical costs for common roofing materials:

Material	Typical cost per m²
Metal	$2 to $4
Concrete	$3 to $5
Terracotta	$4 to $7
Slate	$5 to $8
Colorbond	$2 to $4

Each roofing material in Australia comes with its own set of cleaning challenges and requirements, which affect the overall cost. 

• Metal roofs ($2–$4 per m²): Metal roof cleaning costs include careful cleaning to avoid damage, which might employ the appropriate pressure and cleaning solutions. Metal is also more expensive than traditional shingle roofing, so roof cleaners might need to utilise special equipment.
• Colorbond roofs ($2–$4 per m²): Colorbond roofs, though similarly priced to standard metal roofing, require special cleaners to avoid damaging their coating.
• Concrete tiles ($3–$5 per m²): Cleaning concrete roof tiles cost sits in the mid-range, though their porous surface requires appropriate cleaning techniques to prevent damage Clean accordingly (e.g., use low pressure, if pressure washing).
• Terracotta tiles ($4–$7 per m²): Terracotta tiles require specialised care and gentle cleaning methods to prevent damage, leading to higher cleaning costs.
• Slate roofs ($5–$8 per m²): Slate roofs are delicate and expensive, so cleaning them requires the most technical, gentle techniques. This drives up the cost.

Condition

For roofs that only need light cleaning with minimal debris removal, expect to pay the standard base rate for your area. However, if your roof has mould, lichen, or accumulated debris from long-term neglect, expect a higher bill.

Moreover, roof repair with water damage often commands higher prices due to the additional labour and specialised cleaning solutions needed. In more severe cases where long-term neglect or damage is extensive, the cost to get your roof cleaned can be quite significant due to the combination of cleaning and repair work. These situations often require multiple cleaning sessions and may uncover underlying issues that need attention, such as structural wear.

Additional services

Most roof cleaning professionals offer complementary services that can add value to your maintenance routine. While these increase the overall cost of cleaning a roof, combining services during a single visit often works out more cost-effectively than booking separate appointments. You can further save costs by learning how to clean your gutters yourself.

Additional service	Typical additional cost
Gutter cleaning services	$80 to $150
Ridge capping repointing	$15 to $25 per linear metre
Moss treatment	$3 to $6 per m²
Protective coating	$9 to $12 per m²
Minor repairs	$100+

Professional cleaning methods and costs

Different roof cleaning methods suit various situations and materials. Here’s a detailed look at the main approaches:

Soft wash cleaning

This gentle, effective method combines low-pressure washing with specialised cleaning solutions. Cleaners usually employ this method when dealing with delicate materials like terracotta tiles and older roofs that can crack under high pressure or homes with strict water runoff regulations.

Soft washing costs between $1,000 and $2,000 for an average-sized roof. The cost typically includes environmentally friendly cleaning agents that protect your roof after the service.

High-pressure cleaning

High-pressure cleaning delivers excellent results for specific situations:

• Sturdy materials like concrete tiles, Colorbond, or metal roofing
• Newer roofs (under 15 years) in good structural condition
• Properties with heavy debris buildup or compacted dirt
• Areas with severe environmental staining (such as industrial fallout)
• Roofs needing thorough prep before painting or resealing

High-pressure roof pressure cleaning costs between $400 and $980. While more affordable than soft wash cleaning, this method requires significant expertise to avoid damage. An experienced high-pressure cleaner can adjust pressure levels based on your specific roofing material and its condition.

Chemical treatment

Chemical treatments excel in specific scenarios, either standalone or complementary to other methods. They are handy for:

• Humid coastal areas prone to moss, algae, and lichen growth

• Properties needing long-term prevention between cleans

• Heritage homes requiring low-impact solutions

These treatments cost $200 to $450, including protective coatings that prevent regrowth for up to 36 months, offering excellent value in high-humidity regions.

That said, if you have special coats or paints on your roof, ask your roof painting specialist if their roof cleaning and painting cost covers safe chemical solutions to avoid damage.

Preventative maintenance programs

Many companies offer ongoing maintenance programmes, ranging from $300 to $800 annually. These packages usually include biannual cleaning and regular inspections, providing better value than one-off services for many homeowners. Combining the cost to clean roofs and gutters into one service might also save you some money.

A main part of preventative maintenance is biocide treatment, which can prevent regrowth for 18 to 36 months on average and up to 5 years in optimal conditions. Alternatively, a roof restoration service might be more practical when cleaning alone isn’t sufficient.

Choosing the right roof cleaners involves more than comparing quotes. From equipment specifications to safety protocols, here’s your comprehensive checklist for hiring a professional who’ll protect your roof while keeping it clean.

Equipment and materials

Professional cleaners in Australia should use variable pressure washers with adjustable nozzles and telescopic poles suited to local roofing styles. For tiled roofs, which are common across many Australian homes, they should also use specialised rotary surface cleaners designed to effectively navigate curved and uneven surfaces.

Additionally, ask for their chemical list. Different roofing materials require specific cleaning solutions, and professionals should explain exactly which agents they’ll use and why. This is especially true if your roof uses Colorbond or special tile materials.

Safety protocols

The quote must detail their fall protection strategy, and you should receive their Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS). Avoid contractors who rely solely on roof rails; proper safety requires regularly tested harnesses and certified anchor points.

Documentation and warranties

A thorough service starts with a detailed inspection report, including photos of your roof’s current condition. A decent local cleaner should provide written documentation of:

• Cleaning methods specific to your roof material
• Safety protocols and equipment standards
• 12-month warranty covering issues like mould regrowth
• Recommended maintenance schedule: quarterly for coastal homes due to salt spray, typically annual for inland properties
• The final quote of how much it costs to clean your roof

Track record matters—ask for local examples of their past work and recent customer references. While price is important, choosing a cleaner based solely on cost often leads to subpar results or potential roof damage.

Protect your roofing investment with professional roof cleaning

From the humid conditions of Queensland to the harsh UV exposure in Western Australia, different regions face unique challenges that affect roof maintenance needs and costs. 

Now that you know how much it costs to clean a roof, you can connect with experienced roof cleaning professionals in your area. Get detailed quotes and find a qualified roof cleaner who understands your specific roofing needs.