Moss and algae growth on your roof can build up and degrade your roof shingles, shortening the lifespan of your roof. Moss and algae can also look untidy, taking away some curb appeal for your home. Don’t worry though, when you notice you have some new houseplants living on your roof, there are steps you can take to remove the moss and algae from your roof and prevent more from growing.
How to Remove Roof Moss and Algae
How to Remove Roof Moss and Algae
Step 1: Prep
It is important to take the proper precautions anytime you are heading to the roof. Climbing a ladder to the roof can be dangerous. If you choose to remove moss and algae yourself, you need to make sure you are being safe.
Wear non-slip shoes for improved traction
Secure yourself with a rope if possible
Wear safety goggles when spraying chemicals
If for any reason you are not comfortable or unable to take safety precautions, it is always a good idea to call a professional roofing company like Hammerhead Roofing so we can take care of the job for you.
Step 2: Wash and Brush
Using a garden hose, spray the moss down with water. Do not use a pressure washer! Pressure washing can be detrimental to the lifespan of your roof. You can gently brush the moss with a long-handled soft broom, but you need to be delicate to avoid damaging the shingles. Always brush and spray from top to bottom to avoid lifting the shingles and damaging the roof, as this could lead to leaks. Make sure to give the roof a final spray with the hose to remove any loose moss. After using the hose, be aware the ladder may be wet and slippery. Have someone help you dry the ladder rungs before you try to climb down. Hammerhead Roofing provides cost-effective roof cleaning services so you can avoid climbing the ladder in the first place.
Step 3: Use Chemicals
Moss removal chemicals are available in stores. These removers are helpful because they target the spores directly to eliminate the moss so it is less likely to grow back. Follow the directions on the remover for it to be most effective. Be aware that if you have yard plants below where you are cleaning, these chemicals can harm those plants if they get washed off the roof onto your yard. You can cover these plants with plastic sheets to protect them from the chemicals. Alternatively, moss removers that are eco-friendly are a great option because they are less likely to harm your plants.
Step 4: Prevent Growth
While it is hard to 100% prevent moss growth in some environments, there are some extra steps you can take to deter moss from growing back. Moss thrives in the shade, so regularly pruning the trees around your house can make the environment less suitable for moss and algae. Hire a roofing contractor to install proper drainage and clean gutters to keep the roof drained and dry. Additionally, at Hammerhead Roofing, we can do a roof inspection and advise you on steps to take to keep your roof naturally moss and algae-free.
Cleaning moss from your own roof can be dangerous and overwhelming. Why not let a professional take care of this chore for you? Our contractors are not only comfortable on roofs, but they also have the delicacy and expertise to clean your roof without damaging your shingles. The experts at Hammerhead Roofing would be more than happy to remove moss and algae from your roof and protect it against future growth with regular maintenance. Give us a call for a roof cleaning estimate today and never climb up to your roof again!