Roof Moss Removal: Your Ultimate Guide

Nothing can harm the curb appeal of your home than seeing moss creeping over your rooftop. In areas with a lot of moisture and humidity, moss can be a common occurrence causing roofing materials to deteriorate faster. But, fear not, moss can be handled in various ways. If moss is taking over your roof, there are steps you can take to tackle the issue before it becomes a more challenging problem. At Reyco Power Washing & Sealing, we have the skills and products for efficient roof moss cleaning and we make sure the integrity of your roof stays intact.

Causes of Roof Moss

Homeowners living in areas that are shaded, cool and moist more frequently face the creep of moss. Trees also pose a threat; if you want to avoid moss, it’s important to clear your roof of tree debris because as tree materials sit on the roof, they create a perfect environment for moss spores to grow. Your roofing material can also lead to more moss, as roofs made of rough and porous materials like wood or certain types of asphalt shingles give moss the surface to cling onto. If you face any of these challenges, it’s important to make roof maintenance a top priority.

Consequences of Roof Moss

Unfortunately, letting moss remain on your roof for a long period of time can cause some issues that may get serious. As moss holds in excess moisture, it can quickly deteriorate the roofing products. The moisture can also cause wooden parts to rot and metal to rust, leading to leaks in your roof. Moss growth can really impact the shingles. Roots can grow into the lining of the shingles, forcing them to bend or crack. In the winter, moss can freeze and dethaw, damaging the shingles and forcing you to replace the shingles more frequently. If you see moss on your roof shingles, don’t wait! Call Reyco Solutions for Roof cleaning. We will chat with you about the roof moss removal cost and make sure your roof stays protected.

Roof Moss Removal Methods

Moss and leaves on top of roof

Removing the moss from your roof is paramount in protecting the longevity and quality of your roof. There are things you can do to get the moss off before it causes a bigger problem. 

  • Manual Removal: You can remove moss from a roof by grabbing a stiff brush or a long-handled scrub brush to scrape away the debris. If using this method, make sure you brush downwards so you do not damage the shingles. 
  • Cleaning Solutions: There are commercial moss removal products containing zinc sulfate or iron sulfate that can work to break down the moss. You can also make a DIY spray with water, bleach or vinegar. Be careful how much of this you use, though – overuse can cause deterioration of shingles. 
  • Zinc or Copper Flashing: You can add these to the peak of roofs so that when it rains, these chemicals flow down the roof and deter moss growth. This is a great long-term solution for protecting your roof. 
  • Regular Maintenance: Since trees are a major culprit of debris and shade, keeping these cleared is a way to get ahead of moss growing. 
  • Powerwashing: At Reyco, we have the products and expertise to make sure your roof stays clear and your shingles are protected. If you’re looking for a moss solution, give us a call to learn more about our House Power Washing and moss removal services. 

Moss Prevention Tips 

To get ahead of moss growing, you can consider these tips for stopping moss growth before it even begins. 

  1. Minimize Shade: Make sure to cut back tree branches that hang over your roof to limit debris and damp situations. 
  2. Create Air Circulation: Ensuring you have ventilation in the attic will limit humidity that creates moisture. 
  3. Clean Your Gutters: Moss loves what gathers in your gutters! Making sure to clean these periodically will deter moss spores. 
  4. Roof Moss Treatments: Many roofing companies offer moss-deterring treatments that will protect your roof from the start. 
  5. Install Metal Flashing: As stated above, metal flashing made of copper or zinc will reduce moss growth when it rains because of the chemical properties of the metal. 

Need Help with Roof Moss Removal? Call Reyco Solutions!

Power washer

Sometimes, avoiding moss may feel impossible. If you’re seeing moss creep over your roof and you want to handle it quickly and efficiently, you’ve come to the right place. Reyco Solutions has been taking care of homes in the Midlothian area for over 20 years. Our customers rave about our quality work and dedication to our services. We tackle roof soft washing, but also driveway moss removal. If you’re feeling like your home needs a power washing treatment, give us a call today to chat about all the services we offer. 

FAQ:

What time of year is best to remove moss from the roof?

It is best to handle moss during any season that is dry, as moss will not be growing and it is safer to clean moss off a roof when the surfaces are not slippery.  

What kills moss naturally?

Vinegar, salt and baking soda remove moss, but be careful what you put on your roof in case it will impact the shingles. 

What kills moss permanently?

Using chemicals like zinc sulfate or iron sulfate are good for killing moss, but taking steps to reduce moisture and shade is the best way to prevent moss long term. 

How do you stop moss from growing?

To avoid moss growing from an area, make sure it is in the sunlight and dry for a majority of the time. 

What is the best homemade roof moss killer?

You can mix together equal amounts of water and white distilled vinegar and spray it onto moss to stop growth. 

Can I pressure wash moss off my roof?

Yes! But we do not recommend you doing this on your own, as you can apply too much pressure and damage the shingles. If you want to soft wash moss, call the professionals! At Reyco Solutions, we know exactly what your roof will need. 

What is the fastest way to remove moss from a roof?

You can remove moss quickly by scrubbing it with a bristle brush, using an anti-moss chemical and then rinsing it with water. 

What happens if you leave moss on your roof?

Leaving moss on your roof tiles is a problem because moss traps moisture and continued water on your roof can lead to leaks and eventual deterioration of your shingles. 

Should you brush moss off your roof?

Brushing moss off a roof is totally fine, but just make sure you use a soft bristle brush and scrub gently so you do not damage shingles.