Moss can be a beautiful sight when seen in a garden, but when you see it growing somewhere unintentional, it can be rather concerning. This is especially the case when you find it growing on your roof. Though it may add a natural charm, moss is not meant to be on your home. In fact, moss can actually cause issues to the structure and longevity of your roof if left to keep growing. So, what should you do if you notice moss growing on your roof, and why would it be growing there to start with?
Moss likes to grow in shady and moist environments. This can make your roof an ideal area for it to thrive. The problem is, moss retains moisture which can be a major problem if it does so on your roof, causing deterioration of roofing materials and leading to rot. In addition, moss roots can creep under the shingles, lifting them and making your home vulnerable to leaks.
If you do see moss on your roof, please be careful when addressing it. We always recommend reaching out to a professional unless you have the experience and ability to remove it safely. If you do happen to attempt to clean it, examine the growth to determine how bad the issue is. Take a look at the extent of the coverage and whether or not it has caused any lasting damage. This can be hard to decipher without experience, and this is another reason we recommend calling a professional for help.
You can attempt to gently clean away the patches of moss, but you must be careful not to damage the shingles beneath it. Never use anything more intense than a soft-bristle brush. You can also use moss-killer, specifically the ones meant for roofs that are designed to be less harmful. Never use harsh chemicals like bleach on your roof.
You can prevent further growth by keeping trees trimmed to reduce shady areas and keep vegetation from landing on your roof.
So, when should you call a professional? We always recommend doing this first and foremost. While some people might have the ability and experience to take care of the problem themselves, you can reach out to us for a free consultation. This will help to determine the extent of the damage before moving forward.
Do you suspect you might have moss damage on your roof? Call us today and set up your free consultation!
