On shingle roofs, moss growth can lead to a number of issues. Large clumps of moss can deteriorate shingles, penetrate them, and lead to leaks, although a light layer of moss isn't too bothersome. Additionally, a lot of the moss removal techniques that are advocated online actually damage the shingles, which might dramatically raise the likelihood of a leak. So, how can moss from a roof be securely removed? Do you need to get rid of the moss first if you intend to replace the roof? What steps can you take to stop moss from returning after you remove it? We'll respond to your inquiries and provide you with additional information about how to deal with the moss on your shingle roof.
Why Is Moss Bad for Shingles?
Like ivy creeping up the side of your house, you might think that a little amount of moss adds character to your roof. Although most may seem attractive, it harms your roof. This is why:
Mosses collect water from their leaves rather than from their roots like most plants do. Since shingles are a dry and largely nutrient-free habitat, they do not mind this fact. They will embed their roots right into the shingles, potentially destroying them and opening the door for leaks.
When it rains, moss will absorb the water and hold onto it, keeping your roof constantly damp. The growth of moss will also obstruct the correct drainage of water from the roof because the water must trickle through or around the moss rather than falling directly into the gutters. As a result of continuous exposure to water, shingles may deteriorate.
Moss can eventually push its way under shingles and raise them. Water may be able to enter your home via the lower layers of the roof due to this uplift.
What if the Moss Shows Signs of Death?
Moss may seem to be dead if it has been constantly dry outside. Some moss species, however, may endure months of drying out without dying. One rain will be enough to restore it and allow it to continue developing. Take advantage of the opportunity to have a roofer remove the moss from the roof if your moss has dried off.
How to Clean a Roof of Moss
If moss has infected your roof, you may get rid of it before it worsens and affects how well your roof performs. Because moss is so hard, you usually can't get rid of it by hand. However, you can remove roof moss without harming the shingles by using a chemical solution. You shouldn't step on the roof to remove moss, as per our recommendation.
Steps for Cleaning a Roof of Moss
Step 1: Securely position your ladder close to the moss. Spray the moss with either your own cleanser or a product you can buy at the store.
Step 2: For details on how long to leave the cleaner on the moss, refer to the packaging of the cleaner you purchased. Leave a DIY spray on for 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 3: Thoroughly rinse the moss with your garden hose set to low pressure. The majority of the moss ought to be washed off by the water's spray. Make sure not to spray shingles directly or beneath them with a pressured spray as this could cause them to lift. If not, you risk causing a leak. Rinse thoroughly even if the moss is not coming off. You must thoroughly wipe away all of the cleanings you sprayed on to avoid damaging your shingles.
Step 4: The remaining moss should now be loose enough to be physically removed from the shingles. Gently remove the moss from the shingles while standing on the ladder, then put it in your rubbish bag to be thrown away. To keep one hand on the ladder at all times, you can fasten the rubbish bag to your ladder.
Step 5: You shouldn't use other techniques, such as using a brush or a power washer, as they may harm the roof if some moss is still too deeply embedded on the roof to be removed by hand. Instead, find out what to do next by speaking with a qualified roofer.
Why Shouldn't I Place a New Roof Over Moss?
It could be tempting to put an additional layer of shingles on top of your current shingles when you need a new roof. As your roofer won't have to remove and dispose of the old shingles, double-upping your shingles can reduce the time and cost of replacing your roof. Because the replacement won't require as much time or create as much mess, this method is practical for homes. But sometimes it wouldn't be a good idea to just apply a fresh covering of shingles.
Before putting up a new roof, should you remove shingles that have moss on them?
You could choose to have professional roofers put the new roof on top of the old one when you get a new roof. This may permit you to make financial savings in certain situations. Can you still utilize this procedure, though, if your previous roof has moss growth?
Perhaps you should take care of the moss before replacing the entire roof. Your roofers will need to take off every shingle from your old roof, or they might need to use a pressure washer to get rid of the worst moss pieces before installing the new roof. Use of a pressure washer is only advised because you don't have to worry about the state of the old roof.
The moss might come back, what then?
Avoid using severe chemical treatments or prolonged dry periods to eradicate the moss if it does come back. Chemical treatments could hurt both moss and shingles, which would be a worse issue. Dead moss must still be manually removed or it may obstruct water drainage from the roof and cause problems. It can result in standing water. Additionally, it might cause gutter clogging or leaks.
What if I Like the Moss?
Moss is attractive to some homeowners because it resembles ivy climbing up the side of their houses. Consider purchasing a residential green roof if you want to grow moss or other plants on your roof. Succulents and mosses can thrive on broad, thin green roofs. Consider installing an intense green roof if you're interested in higher plants.
Do You Need Help With Moss?
A professional roofer is your best option whether you need to replace the entire roof or just a few moss-covered tiles. Use the Contractor Locator provided by BRH Enterprises to contact one.
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