If you happen to’re a house 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 progress is a persistent and expensive subject. Positive, moss-covered roofs could look charming, however moss retains moisture, weakens roofing supplies, and may result in costly repairs if left untreated.
That can assist you defend the well being and longevity of your roof—whether or not it’s a comfy cottage, fashionable townhouse or a single-family dwelling—we interviewed trade 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 how one can forestall 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 timber or dealing with north—you’re extra more likely to see moss buildup over time. Patrick Roden of On High House Companies explains, “Moss thrives in cool, damp areas with limited sunlight, like shaded roofs where moisture is retained.”
Moss spreads by windblown spores, which 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 progress. Sure roofing supplies, like asphalt shingles stuffed 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 unhealthy in your roof?
Moss could appear innocent, however it could possibly trigger critical injury to your roof. Chris Sloan of Sloan’s House 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 could possibly “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.”
Frequent strategies for eradicating moss out of your roof
Moss elimination is important for sustaining each the aesthetics and integrity of your roof. Joseph Mollo of Atlantic House 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 prevented. “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 owners to keep away from bleach-based options, which may discolor roofing supplies and hurt surrounding crops.
Moss elimination isn’t nearly seems; 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 damage your property’s marketability, so addressing it promptly is important.
Aaron of Roof Moss Gone highlights the importance of following trade 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 owners solely take it on in the event that they’re professionally educated to make sure security and effectiveness.
How a lot does it price to take away moss from a roof?
The price of moss elimination varies primarily based on your property’s dimension and the extent of moss buildup. Alex Sirotinskiy of Floor Renewal estimates that skilled moss elimination can price between $350 and $1,200, together with the appliance 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 decreasing the chance of pricey repairs or full roof substitute.
Keep away from these frequent errors when eradicating moss out of your roof
Adam Newton of Olympia Moss Elimination cautions in opposition to utilizing strain washers, which may injury 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 injury happens, akin to torn shingle edges or uncovered nails, Newton suggests utilizing rubberized sealant for minor repairs. For extra in depth injury, 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 crucial to revive your roof.
Taking proactive steps to forestall moss progress and addressing it promptly will assist prolong your roof’s lifespan, preserve your property’s worth, and keep away from a pricey roof substitute down the road.
