Steeples are structures unique to churches, drawing the eye upward and marking your building as a place of worship and sanctuary. However, special features also come with unique challenges, especially where cleaning and maintenance are concerned. Here's a look at the importance of regular steeple cleaning for your church.

What Are the Difficulties of Steeple Cleaning?

You might pride yourself on keeping the exterior of your church free of dirt and grime, but steeples are usually quite difficult to access. Even if you have an easy way out onto the roof, safely reaching the upper sections of the steeple with a pressure washer may be impossible.

Over time, dirt and debris buildup on the surface of the steeple will make it look dingy and run-down, particularly when contrasted with the lower church walls that are easier to keep clean. Grime, dried mud, and bird droppings can also obscure water leaks, mold growth, and other damage that could cause serious, expensive damage in the future.

How Does a Clean Steeple Benefit a Church?

Cleaning your steeple makes the most prominent element of your church shine, creating curb appeal your congregation can be proud of. A clean, gleaming steeple is also a beacon that can draw in new worshipers and help your church grow.

During the cleaning, technicians will also have a chance to inspect your steeple and decorative elements for signs of storm damage, mold, and water leaks. This gives you the chance to schedule repairs before mold spreads through the attic or rain soaks into the roof. In some cases, these repairs can spare you the cost and inconvenience of having the entire steeple replaced. 

How Often Should Your Steeple Be Cleaned?

Most churches find that they need to schedule a steeple cleaning every couple of years. However, if your community has a high level of contaminants in the air, you regularly have heavy rain, or large bird populations nest near your church, you may need a yearly appointment. Generally, whenever the structure begins to look visibly dirtier than the lower areas of the building, it's wise to bring it back to its former glory.

Since 1976, A&M Crane and Rigging has provided expert steeple cleaning for churches throughout North Carolina and the surrounding states. Their crews have access to a fleet of cranes and other vehicles, along with the proper pressure-washing equipment to make your steeple look new again. Visit their website for more on their steeple services or call (336) 889-6000 to request a quote.