When considering buying a steeple or cupola, it is important to understand the differences in the materials that are used to build these structures. The differences in materials will ultimately change the look of your structure. Fiberglass and wood are the most popular materials used in steeples today. In addition to these materials, brick, stone, and even copper are commonly used.

Since there are so many options, it can be stressful to choose the right steeple for you. Each of these materials has its own pros and cons. The goal of choosing the right material for your steeple or cupola is just about finding the right fit for your church. Before selecting the material you would like to use, consider the benefits and setbacks of each type.

Fiberglass vs. Wood steeple

Fiberglass steeples are strong and sturdy. Fiberglass is a newer material that closely resembles plastic. Because it is easier to clean and does not need to be repainted for appearance upkeep, fiberglass is a great material to use for steeples.

Traditionally, wood is the most popular material used for steeples. It is a tried and true material when it comes to building steeples. However, because wood is an organic material, it is easier for mold and mildew to penetrate your steeple. This can lead to a need for repainting.

How to clean your steeple

The best way to clean any steeple is with a power washer. This tool sprays the steeple with high-pressure water to force dirt and grime away. When cleaning a steeple, there are many factors to consider.

A big part of cleaning a steeple is knowing what type of power washer to use and the correct setting for your power washer so that you can properly clean your steeple. Turning the pressure up too high could result in damage to the steeple as well as increasing the money and time spent on maintenance. Likewise, not using enough pressure could be equally ineffective. Many people use softwash pressure to clean their steeples because it uses a gentle setting to clean and does so without the harmful chemicals.

Consider having your steeple professionally cleaned. Church steeples are typically located high off the ground at the top of a church which makes it difficult to clean. Professional power washers usually have bucket trucks and other equipment that assist in the cleaning of the steeple. Leaving the steeple cleaning up to the professionals guarantees that damage won’t be done to yourself or to the roof of your church.

Why steeple cleaning is important

Proper steeple cleaning creates curb appeal for your church.

It is important to maintain your church’s steeple since it is one of the focal points of a church. Leaving a steeple untouched could potentially reflect badly on the church as a whole while keeping the steeple pristine could translate to bringing in new members.

Cleaning your steeple at least once a year will ensure the preservation of the steeple which can also eliminate the need to replace the steeple in the future. The frequency required depends on the area the church is located in. Some places may have harsher weather conditions than other areas. A damp, shaded environment will be more prone to mold and mildew than warmer or mostly sunny areas. Routine cleaning of your steeple will add to the church’s overall aesthetic, making your church feel clean and welcoming.

Regular steeple cleaning can help prevent weather damage.

Another reason it is important to continuously clean your steeple is that you will be able to identify weather damage before it causes detrimental harm to your steeple or cupola. Because steeples are located at the top of a church, they are highly susceptible to the elements, so it is important to keep a close eye on them in order to prevent decay.

Mildew and grime can build up quickly over time. If the steeple is made of wood, it can become dirtier faster which can degrade the paint job. An unclean steeple can make the church appear grimy and unkempt. This could even cause the church to appear abandoned. Taking steps to keep your steeple clean and well kept will ultimately transform your church’s image.

If your steeple is made of fiberglass, the mold and mildew can damage the gel coat and cause discoloration. Mold can permanently cause the steeple to have a dull appearance as it becomes porous. Once it becomes porous then mildew can move in. The best way to prevent this from occurring is being proactive. Do not wait to see the discoloration of the steeple before having the steeple cleaned. Ensure that you are having the steeple cleaned on a regular basis.

Steeples are iconic symbols that represent a church. The state of a steeple can significantly impact the church’s image. Understanding the correct way to clean a steeple will allow it to stay in pristine condition. Cleaning your steeple at least once a year helps to save money on repairs and prevents excessive weather damage. A clean steeple will create a welcoming and inviting feel to a church.