Rustic is in, and moss might look like a fairy tale to some; it isn't the best news for your roof and keeping it protected for years to come. Moss begins by not being too noticeable, but as it is left untreated, it becomes intertwined into your shingle and lifts those shingles, making it more difficult to remove. Although moss is excellent for the environment, soaking up water can cause severe water damage to your shingle, which will eventually penetrate your home. We have some great, straightforward steps to clean off all the moss and prevent it from coming back if you are looking at cleaning up your moss this spring.
As we go into the steps of what to do about your moss, there are some crucial things NOT to do when dealing with moss on your roof. A common way people see moss removed is through pressure washing. Unfortunately, the pressure from a pressure washer can be way too powerful and cause damage to your shingles by cracking or ultimately causing them to detach. The same can happen to scraping the moss off the shingle, and it can be pretty time-consuming.
Now it is time to talk about the steps you can take to DIY and get rid of that green.
Step 1: Moss Killing Product
Dry powder and liquid are the two best types of products for killing moss. The dry powder is simple; sprinkle it across your roof and let the rain wash away your troubles. Liquid moss killer can be attached to your garden hose and sprayed on top. After 2 to 3 days or a good rain the majority of the moss should fall off. Spray your roof a few times to make sure the cleaner is removed. These products can be harmful to siding, decking, and plants. We recommend spreading some plastic sheeting for added precaution and reviewing the directions and precautions on the back of the product.
Step 2: Remove by Hand
Dry powder and liquid are the two best types of products for killing moss. The dry powder is simple; start at the top and work your way down using a soft bristle scrub brush to remove the moss. This is important to avoid lifting shingles and removing granules from the shingle.
Step 3: Remove by Hand
Prune any tree limbs that hang over your roof that may prevent sunlight. Moss loves the shade, plus pruning trees will also stop other harm on your roof that comes from tree limbs. Choosing the right shingle containing copper granules is also essential to prevent moss and algae growth. Make sure you ask your Northpoint Roofing Consultant when selecting your shingle about your best option.
There you have it! Moss be gone or prevented and now you have a protected roof. If this DIY project sounds like a lot of work, make sure you work with a specialist who understands your roof. Schedule a free roof inspection with the experts at Northpoint Roofing Systems today to get started.