The first step in removing moss from your roof is to remove the sources of shade that provide the perfect environment for moss growth. Trim back trees that shade the shingles and move garden features like pergolas and trellises away from your roof to prevent them from casting shade. Also, make sure to clean gutters regularly as they can also harbor moss and other mold spores. Hiring a professional gutter cleaning service such as Gutter Cleaning Norfolk VA to have it not just cleaned but also inspect.
Apply a moss-killer solution to kill moss spores and prevent them from spreading on new surfaces, such as your gutters and downspouts. This is usually a 50/50 mixture of water and chlorine bleach, but you can also use a combination of vinegar and water to get the job done without harming your plants or other home materials.
Spray the moss-killing chemicals onto the shingles and let them settle for about 20 minutes, giving the chemical time to work its magic. Then, rinse the shingles and roof with water. This will dilute the chemicals and help protect your shingles from damage.
Shower the moss with water
A high-pressure power washer is another option, but it can cause serious damage to your shingles and tiles. Using this method should be done only after you have made sure that your roof tiles are not broken or chipped, as the water pressure can amplify the damage and seep through cracks.
Wear safety glasses, rubber gloves, a cap, and slip-resistant shoes while you work. You should also cover nearby plants with plastic sheeting and make sure to keep a ladder secure. You might need a safety rope or harness to climb up the ladder to the top of your roof, so be prepared.
When you're up on the roof, don't forget to use a long-handled scrub brush or soft-bristle painter's brush and putty knife to scrape the moss off of the shingles and roof tiles. Work on small sections at a time, moving the brush in downward strokes to ensure that the shingles don't break as you scrub them.
Do not over-scrub the shingles or tiles, as this will strip them of their coatings and can weaken them. If a shingle is damaged, it may need to be replaced, and the incorrect cleaning technique could void your warranty.
Removing a moss layer on your roof can be frustrating and expensive, so it's important to do the work right. If you don't take the necessary steps to remove moss from your roof, it can eventually lead to water damage, shingles degraded by UV light, and even the need for a new roof.
Moss is a naturally occurring organic matter, and it is generally not harmful to the shingles, but if left untreated for an extended period of time, it can lead to a more severe problem. If a thick layer of moss develops, it can clog drainage systems and degrade your shingles over time.
If your moss is particularly stubborn, you may need to hire a professional to tackle the job. The best thing to do is follow the following guidelines for DIY moss removal, which will prevent your roof from needing to be repaired or replaced in the future.
