Moss is more than just an aesthetic issue on your roof. Over time, moss growth can lead to serious problems from structural damage to roofing materials and expensive roof repairs in the end. So it pays to stay on top of moss removal and prevention. If you have got moss on your roof it’s important for you to know how to get rid of moss from your roof?
Moss is a small, soft plant that grows in moist, shaded areas. There are different species of moss, but they all share these characteristics:
- Thin, flat green or yellowish stems
- The ability to easily absorb water and nutrients
- Reproduction through spores instead of seeds
Why does moss grow on roofs?
Moisture – Moss needs moisture to survive. All that damp and humid air of our England’s climate provides the perfect breeding ground for moss, algae, mildew and mould to thrive.
Shade – Moss prefers cooler, shaded areas that many roof surfaces provide.
Nutrients – Moss gets nutrients from dust, bird droppings and other organic matter that settles on roof shingles.
Age – Older roofing materials, especially wood shake roofs, are more prone to moss growth.
Why Should You Remove Moss from Your roof?
Impaired water drainage – Moss acts like a sponge, soaking up rainwater that should be flowing off your roof. Instead, water gets trapped in the moss mat, which can become thick and dense if allowed to spread unchecked. Water that doesn’t drain properly can quickly cause other issues.
Leaks – Water that doesn’t run off your roof naturally tends to accumulate and eventually finds a way inside. Untreated moss growth allows water to seep through roofing materials, leading to leaks inside your attic and home. Over time even minor seepage can cause significant damage.
Deterioration of roofing materials – The excessive moisture trapped by moss can accelerate the breakdown of asphalt shingles, tile and other roofing components. The damp conditions promote growth of mould and fungus that eat away at materials like wood.
Damage to gutters and downspouts – The buildup of moss debris in gutters and downspouts can obstruct water flow, causing backups that overflow gutters and spill down the sides of your home. This excess moisture can damage siding, eaves and fascia boards.
Mould growth – The damp environment created by moss can promote mould, mildew and lichen growth, which is often blackish in colour and very unsightly.
So, How to remove moss from the roof?
The first sign of moss growth is usually dark green or blackish discolouration in shaded areas. You may also notice puffy patches of fuzzy or cotton-like material emerging. Ignoring new moss growth can have serious consequences gradually, so it’s best to act promptly once you spot early warning signs.
There are several roof moss removal methods to consider. These include manual scraping, using a moss-killing solution, or hiring a professional roof cleaning company. It’s important to choose a method that is safe for your specific roofing material.
Manual Removal
For minor moss growth, using a stiff brush and removing by hand may be sufficient.
- Wear gloves, long sleeves and eye protection
- Spray the affected area with water to moisten the moss and loosen its grip
- Gently scrub away wet moss using stiff brush
Do note that, when cleaning do not leave even a lil bit of moss roots, because it will grow back soon.
Chemical Treatment
For stubborn moss or large areas, applying a moss killer or moss remover product can work well.
- Apply a concentrated moss killer according to label instructions, targeting spots with heavier moss growth
- Leave product on roof for maximum penetration
- Rinse off as mentioned in label
Tip: you can also use laundry detergent, but never use BLEACH.
If moss is not removed and you don’t have a clean roof one can face this situation.
How to stop Moss from growing back on the roof?
Once you’ve removed existing moss with all your energy, it should not be let go wasted. So take these steps to prevent moss future growth:
- Improve gutter drainage – Clear gutters, downspouts and drainage systems of debris.
- Increase sunlight exposure – Prune overhanging branches and remove shrubs that block light. This is very important.
- Install zinc strips – Install zinc strip at the top of your roof. Rain washes the zinc down your roof and it kills the moss.
- Remove moss spores – Brush or wash your roof to remove fresh moss growth before it takes hold.
Related: Misconception and myths about roof cleaning.
FAQs Regarding How To Get Rid Of Moss
Can I remove moss from the roof with vinegar?
Yes, with the help of vinegar you can remove moss from any surface. Just mix water with white vinegar. Do note that this home-made solution might not work all the time, if the moss growth is too thick and widely spread.
Will moss damage asphalt shingles?
While moss itself does not damage asphalt shingles, the excess moisture it holds can accelerate deterioration of the shingles and shorten their lifespan.
Will moss come back after removing it?
It’s common for moss to reappear, especially if the conditions that promoted its initial growth remain.
What kills moss but is safe for the environment?
Natural alternatives for killing moss include sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), corn gluten and products with ingredients derived from soy, citrus or plant extracts.
Will moss go away on its own?
Moss needs water and nutrients to survive, so it will not go away on its own. Left untreated, moss will continue to grow and spread, potentially causing damage to roofing materials.
Can moss damage tile roofs?
Yes, moss can damage concrete and clay roof tiles. The moisture it traps can weaken mortar between tiles. Moss roots can also gradually wear away mortar joints over time.
Can you remove moss on roof with a pressure washer?
Yes, you can remove moss from your roof using a pressure washer but you have to be very careful (but not recommended).
Start low and slow and point the nozzle at the correct angle. A pressure washer can remove moss if used correctly but also poses a threat of damaging your roof. If you have a roof made up of asphalt DO NOT power wash, that may even invalidate your warranty. If you are in doubt then simply contact a roof moss removal company.
What is the best time of year to remove moss from roofs?
Best time of year to remove moss from your roof in England is during the summer months, especially July and August. Because there is less rain and more sunshine. This makes moss dry out which is easier to remove.
Wrapping Up
Moss, algae and mildew growth are common roof problems across the UK. While moss may seem harmless at first, it can secretly cause hundreds of £’s worth of damage. Stopping moss in its tracks with the safest removal methods is key.
For heavy moss growth, call us today – our affordable roof cleaning services deliver the best and most lasting results.
