A residential roofing contractor knows what to look for when it comes to roof damage. However, the average homeowner doesn't have the experience needed to identify potential problems. That's why it's important for individuals to read up on possible roofing issues and how to avoid or treat them to avoid having to pay for a roof replacement. While moss might make your home look like something out of a storybook, this nasty occurrence could indicate bad water damage along with other possible roofing issues. If you see this unwelcome green growth on your roof, here are some steps you need to take.
Quick Facts: Moss on Your Roof
- Does moss mean I need a roof replacement? Not necessarily — but it needs to be treated promptly.
- How do you remove moss from a roof? A 50/50 bleach and water mixture is the most common DIY method.
- Should you power wash moss off a roof? No — this can force water under shingles and cause more damage.
- When should you call a roofer to remove roof moss? If moss has been present for an extended period, or if you see signs of underlying water damage.
Does Moss on Your Roof Mean You Need a Roof Replacement?
One of the first concerns homeowners have when it comes to roof damage is the potential for a roof replacement. This costly, time-consuming, and disruptive process is a nightmare for the unexpecting homeowner. If you do see algae or moss on your home's roof, you shouldn't panic. It's a natural phenomenon that doesn't necessarily mean a roof replacement is a must. Any residential roofing contractor will also let you know that the presence of this growth isn't proof that your home is the victim of moisture or water damage. However, since roof damage is a possibility and enough damage can lead to the need for a roof replacement, it's critical to tackle the problem quickly and efficiently.
How Does Moss End Up on a Roof?
Many homeowners are puzzled by the growth of moss, as it seems to appear on their roof seemingly out of nowhere. Fortunately, a residential roofing contractor can explain exactly why your home's roof is home to this new growth of moss. Generally, it tends to develop in areas that are blocked from the sun. Whether you have a roof with a higher pitch that casts a shadow on the lower portion or you have nearby trees with many overhanging limbs, these are optimal areas for moss to grow and spread. Also, if you happen to live in a climate that experiences a lot of precipitation, the chances of seeing moss or algae growing on your roof increase considerably. However, an experienced residential roofing contractor will be able to treat moss growth on homes in any climate. If you catch the growth of moss early, you have a good chance of avoiding a roof replacement and damage. The longer you leave it sitting on your roof, the greater the chances that issues will develop.
How to Remove Moss from Your Roof
Now that you know how moss develops on your roof and the potential damage it can cause, it's time to talk about what you should do when you catch this problem. The first step is to remove the moss from your roof. While some homeowners can do this on their own, many prefer to hire a residential roofing contractor to avoid the potential dangers associated with roof jobs. When outsourcing the work to a professional, you're not only securing your safety; you’re also ensuring that the work gets done timely, correctly, and efficiently.
Can You Remove Roof Moss Yourself?
If you decide to handle the problem on your own, you should resist the urge to use a power washer. Although it might seem like an obvious choice, any residential roofing contractor can tell you that most homeowners don't have the necessary skills or knowledge to use this powerful piece of equipment without damaging their roof. The last thing you want to do while attempting to keep your roof from incurring damage is to cause more problems resulting in the need for a roof replacement. If water ends up getting beneath your shingles, it can cause more issues than you're solving.
The Bleach and Water Method
Homeowners can use a 50-50 mixture of household bleach and water to effectively kill the spreading moss. According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, it's ideal to leave the mixture for around 15 - 20 minutes before rinsing it off with water pressure at a lower level. It's not a cause for concern if the treatment results in the moss turning white or yellow. In fact, this strange result means that the treatment is effective. When the moss eventually dies, it'll be significantly easier to brush or rinse away.
When to Call a Residential Roofing Contractor for Moss Removal
Although the presence of moss isn't an immediate death sentence for your current roof, there are some cases when it can cause significant damage that might even result in the need for an entire roof replacement. If you notice that your roof has been covered in moss for an extended period of time, you shouldn't try to solve the problem by yourself. At this point, it's time to reach out to an experienced and reputable residential roofing contractor. Furthermore, if you feel that you don't have the ability or tools necessary to handle the job on your own, you should reach out to a professional no matter the state of moss on your roof.
Contact Beaulieu Home Improvement for Roof Moss Removal
Beaulieu Home Improvement has been solving homeowners’ roofing problems for years. From mold and moss growth to age and weather-related problems, we have the experience and tools necessary to deliver great results. Feel free to contact us today to speak to one of our dedicated and knowledgeable representatives. Be sure to ask about our Beaulieu Shield warranty
