How Do You Prevent Moss From Growing On Your Roof?

How do you prevent moss from growing on your roof?

1. Keep the roof free of tree debris, leaves and existing moss.
2. Keep the gutters clean to avoid spreading moss upwards.
3. Cut branches back from roof line.
4. Apply a moss preventative treatment.

Just like any other aspect of home ownership, roof maintenance must be done on a regular basis to prevent long-term and permanent damage to shingles, underlayment, ceilings and walls. Keeping surfaces free of moisture and keeping moisture out of the walls and ceilings keeps your family safe and free of allergies and illnesses. By developing a preventative strategy, which includes frequent cleaning and preventative treatments, you can keep moss from growing on your roof to extend the life of your home for many years.

Keep the Roof Free of Tree Debris, Leaves & Existing Moss

The first step to keeping your roof moss-free is to keep the roof surface clean. Make sure that there is no debris like fallen branches, leaves, or animal nests. Inspect the areas that are moisture prone for any sign of moss growth. Check the north-facing side of the roof and building with particular care.

Keep the gutters clean to avoid spreading moss upwards and cut back branches over or near the roof line. Too much shade can prevent the sun from evaporating moisture.

Don’t forget to consider your own safety when getting up on the roof. Use a proper harness and rope to secure yourself when performing any kind of work on your roof.

Continue ongoing maintenance for the best results over time. A professional can inspect, clean and treat your roof on a regular schedule or as-needed to help prevent problems going forward.

Apply a Moss Preventative Treatment

Once the surface of the roof is cleared of debris, apply a preventative solution to the roof that specifically addresses the type of moss growth you have. There are many different products in all price ranges that are effective. Some last longer than others or are used for specific purposes. If you already have a moss infestation, a preventative-type of application will not work well to remove it. You’ll need a different solution to address existing moss growth.

A professional can take a look at the environment surrounding your roof to determine the best preventative treatment solution to apply. It is also important to take into consideration the type of roofing material, the condition of the roof, the direction the roof faces and the location of any previous moss growth.

A professional can take the guesswork out of preventative treatments

While doing roof maintenance and applying treatments yourself may save you some money up front, you don’t want to choose a product that could harm your roof and you do not want to apply a product improperly. For instance, pressure washing can ruin your roof and create long-term, irreversible damage to the roof and walls if you do not do it properly. Additionally, applying the wrong kind of treatment can damage certain types of shingles and underlayment. You can avoid replacing costly cedar shakes, for example, by having a professional roof cleaning company determine the appropriate treatment for the roof type.

Preventative Maintenance Saves Money

Cleaning your roof’s surface and applying a moss preventative treatment can keep your roof in excellent condition, even beyond its expected life. But preventative maintenance must be done properly to avoid damaging shingles or shakes and the roof’s underlayment. Treatments designed and implemented by professionals that work within your local area, who understands your area’s particular environmental and weather conditions, are best and can save you money.