Most homeowners aren’t aware of the moss growing on their roofs. And while that may not cause immediate repercussions, over time, it can lead to severe setbacks — one of which includes having to replace your roof. But what even is moss in the first place? Why does it form? And how can you remove the moss from your roof?
Luckily, being a professional roofing company, we have the answers to all your burning questions, so make sure to keep reading this blog to find out.
Is Moss Damaging To The Roof?
Moss is a type of flowerless plant that tends to grow in moist and dark environments. Once it sprouts, though, it acts like wildfire and spreads all around the place. That is why getting rid of moss can be tricky.
However, if there is one thing you should know about moss, it can cause a lot of destruction. Whether a small patch or a large infestation, the damage it causes can be irreparable, so much so that you could end up spending hundreds upon thousands of dollars on a new roof.
The thing with moss is that it absorbs water, which means every time it rains, the moss expands and grows, slowly chipping away at the shingles, ruining it further.
Does Moss On Roof Mean The Roof Needs To Be Replaced?
Yes and no. If you have noticed a large patch of moss growing on your roof, there might still be time to get it cleaned. Usually, moss is seen as a sign of a withering roof, indicating you need some sort of repair or replacement.
Sometimes, if the moss is spread out too far, even cleaning won’t get the job done. This is because the longer the moss has been festering on your roofs, the higher the chances of damage. So, even if you get it cleaned, chances are the shingles are so badly worn out that a roof repair might be crucial.
How To Remove Moss From Roof
There are plenty of ways you can remove moss from your roof; some of these methods include:
- Water Hose
If your roof has just started to house moss, the best way to clear your hands off of it would be to hose it down. Grab a ladder, wear heavy-duty gloves, and get to hosing the roof down with moderate water pressure. - Bleach & Water Mixture
According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), mixing equal parts chlorine bleach and water can work against the moss, washing it down. Just make sure to wash the area after. - Contact a Professional
In case of a large patch of moss, you may need to call in the professionals. Only a roofing contractor can look at the moss and tell you whether the roof needs to be cleaned or replaced. - Cleaning Solution
If nothing else works, you can try store-bought chemical cleaners that contain a potent mix of solutions to help dissolve the moss.
Long Story Short
Moss may not be fungi or algae, but it sure can cause a lot of damage to the roofs. You can try to remove the moss by hosing it down or using a strong chemical cleaner, but there is no better way to get rid of it than by letting a professional handle it. Otherwise, you might end up with a roof replacement case on your hands.
For more information on roof care or to get a free inspection, contact Homeward Roofing & Exteriors at (832) 899-4420.