When you’re a home-owner in cities like Portland, Seattle, Vancouver, and even on the East Coast in locations like Boston or New York, the place damp climates are frequent, coping with moss development is a persistent and dear difficulty. Certain, moss-covered roofs could look charming, however moss retains moisture, weakens roofing supplies, and may result in costly repairs if left untreated.
That will help you defend the well being and longevity of your roof—whether or not it’s a comfortable cottage, trendy townhouse or a single-family dwelling—we interviewed business consultants who shared their insights on this Redfin article on nature’s inexperienced rug, the very best methods to take away moss out of your roof, and the way to stop it from returning.
Why moss grows on roofs within the first place
In case your roof will get little daylight—particularly if it’s beneath bushes or dealing with north—you’re extra more likely to see moss buildup over time. Patrick Roden of On Prime Dwelling Companies explains, “Moss thrives in cool, damp areas with limited sunlight, like shaded roofs where moisture is retained.”
Moss spreads by way of windblown spores, that means even in the event you clear your roof, new spores can nonetheless settle. Roden additionally notes that leaves and branches entice moisture, additional fueling moss development. Sure roofing supplies, like asphalt shingles crammed with calcium carbonate, are significantly susceptible to moss. “Moss can cling to shingles and other materials and retain water, which can lead to the growth of fungi and accelerate roof decay,” he warns.
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Is moss actually that dangerous to your roof?
Moss could seem innocent, however it may trigger critical harm to your roof. Chris Sloan of Sloan’s Dwelling Options explains, “Moss retains moisture and can cause roofing materials to deteriorate faster. Over time, it can lead to leaks, rot, and structural damage.” As soon as moss begins to develop, it may “lift shingles and tiles, which allows water to seep underneath. This can compromise the roof’s waterproof barrier and shorten its lifespan.”
Sloan additionally stresses the significance of security throughout moss elimination: “Always prioritize safety: use fall protection gear, work with a buddy, and avoid walking on the roof when it’s wet or slippery.”
Widespread strategies for eradicating moss out of your roof
Moss elimination is crucial for sustaining each the aesthetics and integrity of your roof. Joseph Mollo of Atlantic Dwelling Companies advises utilizing a soft-bristle brush for handbook elimination: “A soft-bristle brush is ideal for gently loosening moss from the surface without damaging shingles.” He warns in opposition to aggressive scrubbing, which may strip shingles of their protecting granules, and stresses that strain washing ought to be averted. “Pressure washing can strip away shingle granules and reduce your roof’s lifespan,” Mollo says. For chemical remedies, Mollo recommends these designed particularly for roofs, cautioning householders to keep away from bleach-based options, which may discolor roofing supplies and hurt surrounding vegetation.
Moss elimination isn’t nearly appears to be like; it’s essential for sustaining your roof’s well being. Sandy Prisak of Roof Shampoo® emphasizes the significance of roof cleanliness for curb enchantment: “If a listing has a dirty roof, it will be one of the very first things a buyer sees.” Moss buildup can harm your private home’s marketability, so addressing it promptly is crucial.
Aaron of Roof Moss Gone highlights the importance of following business pointers when cleansing roofs: “The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) states on their website that composition roofs should be cleaned with a mixture of 50% water and 50% sodium hypochlorite.” Whereas DIY moss elimination is an possibility, Aaron advises that householders solely take it on in the event that they’re professionally educated to make sure security and effectiveness.
How a lot does it value to take away moss from a roof?
The price of moss elimination varies primarily based on your private home’s measurement and the extent of moss buildup. Alex Sirotinskiy of Floor Renewal estimates that skilled moss elimination can value between $350 and $1,200, together with the applying of a liquid moss remedy. “Homes with extensive moss buildup or larger roof surfaces will naturally fall on the higher end of the price range,” he notes.
Common roof inspections and cleanings are key to stopping moss from returning. “At least every 15 months to two years is a minimum,” Sirotinskiy advises. Routine upkeep can lower your expenses in the long term by lowering the chance of pricy repairs or full roof substitute.
Keep away from these frequent errors when eradicating moss out of your roof
Adam Newton of Olympia Moss Removing cautions in opposition to utilizing strain washers, which may harm shingles and void warranties: “Pressure washing can easily take the shingle topper off with the moss.” He additionally warns DIYers to watch out when climbing on the roof: “The overly ambitious (but well intended) homeowner puts themselves in a precarious situation by climbing on the roof.”
Newton advises utilizing a comfortable wash methodology, which includes low-pressure cleansing options that successfully take away moss with out damaging shingles. If harm happens, corresponding to torn shingle edges or uncovered nails, Newton suggests utilizing rubberized sealant for minor repairs. For extra intensive harm, he recommends contacting a roofing contractor.
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What occurs if moss elimination is delayed?
Neglecting moss can have long-term penalties. Newton explains, “Moss acts like a sponge and traps moisture in place, which can wear down the shingle topper and affect the lifespan of the roof.” For extreme instances, knowledgeable comfortable wash service could also be vital to revive your roof.
Taking proactive steps to forestall moss development and addressing it promptly will assist prolong your roof’s lifespan, preserve your private home’s worth, and keep away from a pricey roof substitute down the road.
