Moss growth on the roof is quite normal but with proper care you can delay its growth process. Moss can create a plethora of problems on the roof and hence a lot of damage occurs as the result of excess moss growth. While on the other hand if the moss growth is in the form of a small layer then it is not considered to be a big problem. But we look into the large clumps of moss that occur on the roof, they destroy shingles, as this large layer of moss creates a pathway for the leaks.
There are a number of ways that are available online through a non proper source which in most cases further damages the roof. There are ways provided by the proper source on the internet in the form of YouTube videos and other platforms but the best so far is to hire a professional roofer who can remove the moss from your house roof carefully while taking proper precautionary measures.
Why Moss is Bad for the Shingles?
Moss is detrimental to your roof that is why getting rid of the moss is the first thing you should do especially if the layer becomes too thick. We all know that plants gather water from the roots but if we look into the moss growth they take or gather water from their leaves. That is why when it comes for the growth on shingles they do not mind because they do not survive on getting the water from the roots. They somehow manage to grow their roots directly into the shingles and this moss growth directly affects the roof and creates the opportunity for leaks.
Moss soaks up all the water from the rain and preserves it. With the passage of time moss will make its way through the roof layers which results in water penetration inside the home. Moss severity increases with time when we do not take care of our roof cleaning from moss and other damaging things. Always make sure to take a step to remove the moss when you see it in the first place or else, do visit your roof once a month to check the moss growth.
Methods to Remove Moss From a Roof
If you see moss grow on your roof and you get to know that the moss is in its initial stages then you should be well aware that it can mess up your roof later. So you should be able to remove the moss from your roof right then and there when you see it. Sometimes you can remove the initial moss by hand as it is soft and not tinder at initial stage. However, you can also use a chemical solution to weaken the moss and at the same time save the shingles from getting damaged. There are some material which you will be needing when removing a moss from the roof which are as follows;
- A bag in which you will throw the moss or simply a garbage bag.
- A pipe/hose.
- Of course a ladder to climb up to the roof and remove the moss easily.
- A moss cleaner.
How To Remove Moss From a Roof
Step One: Safely climb up with the ladder and spot the moss growth area then spray it with the moss removal mixture.
Step Two: Follow the instructions which are already given on the moss removal spray bottle to achieve the results. Leave the cleaner according to the mentioned time and if you are using homemade moss removal cleanser then leave it on for 15-25 minutes.
Step Three: Now use the pipe or garden hose and keep the water pressure low and rinse the cleanser properly. In order to keep the shingles safe from lifting always keep a water pressure low. This step will remove most of the moss.
Step Four: Any moss that is still left on the roof you can manually remove it from the shingles and dispose of it off in the garbage bag.
Step Five: If after all the steps there is still some moss left it is okay but do not remove it with a brush or water pressure it can damage the shingles for sure and later turn into leaks. Instead consult a professional roofer for seeking information regarding the remaining moss.
Is It Important To Remove Moss Covered Shingles Before Installing A New Roof?
Most of the times you see the roof installation may occur on the already existing roof without replacing the old roof. This might help you in saving money and time but only when your roof does not have any moss on it. But if your roof has moss then you should first deal with moss and then install a new roof over the old one. The methods of moss removal are already discussed above, get it done by yourself or hire a roofing professional in case the moss removal is a tough task for you. Removing the moss before installing a new roof has various benefits which includes reduction in long term cost, and it also maintains a home value without damaging its material in the long run.
Prevention of Moss on Your New Roof
Now that you installed a new roof you will be more cautious to take extra measures in order to prevent moss growth/infection as your old roof got intact. There are some ways by which you can prevent moss growth on your roof.
Remove all the sources of shade: One of the genius things you can do is to make your roof expose to sunlight it will prevent the moss growth as the moss usually grows on wet and in shade. If you have any trees around the roof make sure to cut them so that the roof stays dry by the sunlight.
Choose algae-resistant shingles: Along with moss growth algae stays side by side as they also grow in the same conditions as of moss. So, keeping your self hustle free, get algae resistant shingles for your roof this will save your roof from pesky/bothersome algae.
Install a metal strip: always go for zinc, copper and galvanized metal strips. They really help you get less troublesome by the moss and algae growth or infections. Install them on the ridge of the roof. They will oxidize and over time it will wash down all the gunk overtime when it is raining.
Get regular inspections: This last step is one of the most important steps in your whole roof saving process from moss. Get your roof inspected by a roofing professional, because they can help you find out the problem at initial stages by ensuring that your roof might not drain properly or drain properly. They will check your roof and clean the whole roof.
Do You Need Help Dealing With Moss?
If you want moss removal or in need of replacing some shingles which are destroyed as a result of moss and algae growth always consult a roofing professional. You can contact us by calling on the provided number 248-525-6950 to get the job done properly or leave a comment for your concern under this blog post.