How to remove moss from your roof

9/29/2020

Moss may look pretty, but when you see it growing on your roof, it’s time to be concerned. Moss can grow directly into shingles, and when it does, it can wreak havoc on your roofing system. Once moss starts to spread it can cause leaks. Once that happens, you may need to replace your damaged shingles.

Moss is particularly problematic for roofs because, unlike most plants that get water from their roots, moss gets water from their leaves. Once moss plants start growing on a large surface like a roof, they can attach their roots and grow rapidly. Unless you act fast, the moss growth can damage the shingles and your roof’s drainage system.

Five steps to remove mold from your roof   

When you see moss on your roof, it’s best to remove it. Luckily, it’s easy to get rid of it  with items you likely already have in your house and a cleaning mixture of chlorine bleach or detergent, and water. Take a look at the steps below.

1. Create a cleaning mixture of eight ounces of dish soap and two gallons of water. Or you could mix two cups of chlorine bleach with water.

2. Make sure your ladder is safely secured to your house and then spray the mixture on the moss. Let it sit and permeate the moss for 20 minutes.

3. After waiting, spray the area down with your hose on a low-pressure setting. Remember to be careful when spraying water on the shingles. If the pressure is too strong it can damage them.  

4. If some moss remains once you’ve sprayed the roof, manually brush the moss from the shingles and dispose.

5. Still have moss on the roof even after you’ve cleaned it? Resist trying to scrub or pressure washing it off. Instead, call a CertainTeed Roofing professional.

Proper Roof Maintenance and Care

Remember: Moss shouldn’t be left to grow on your roof. Because moss can absorb and hold water so well, leaving it on your roof can be like leaving standing water on the roof. As the moss takes hold and the root system penetrates your shingles, the moss can seriously degrade the structural integrity of the roof, cause permanent damage to your shingles, and lead to even mor serious problems.

If you’re concerned about moss growth on yours contact a CertainTeed roofing specialist who can clean off the moss, inspect the roof for any damage, and make any necessary repairs to keep your roofing system in top shape.

Their expertise can ensure there isn’t more serious damage or an issue that can lead to a costly home repair in the future.