Why It’s Important to Remove Roof Moss

With higher moisture and cold damp mornings, Fall is the time when roof moss can grow rapidly, especially in areas that get a lot of rain.  While some homeowners believe moss growing on a roof is unattractive, others find its appearance to be charming and rustic.  However, did you know that moss is bad for your roof?  Many homeowners are not aware that roof moss can create major damage to their house.

What is Roof Moss?

Moss is a spreading plant that absorbs water through its leaves rather than its roots.  It prefers damp environments with lots of moisture and can grow on any surface, including trees, buildings, fences, and roofs.  Moss grows easily on roofs because moss spores are easily transported either by the wind or small animals.  Once there, they gather in the spaces between shingles and flourish. A roof that is partially shaded by trees makes for an ideal environment for growth.  It can spread across a roof to several inches of thickness.

Moss is a problem in wet, cool areas of the country such as the Pacific Northwest.  Although more temperate climates might also have to contend with this plant growing on house roofs.

Can it Cause Damage? 

Moss can damage a roof in several ways.  The longer the moss is left untreated on a roof, the more damage can occur.

– Roof Rot:  Once moss gets into the cracks between shingles, it lifts and loosens them, allowing water to seep through.  Since moss acts like a sponge and retains water, mold and bacteria can grow and damage the roof over time. Since the shingles remain damp with the moss, they can start to rot, and can lead to structural damage to the roof.  If left untreated, the entire roof might need to be replaced.

– Staining:  Moss can also cause black streaks or stains on the roof that are difficult to get rid of.  These stains can make your house look unsightly and neglected.  Since the roof is often noticed from the road, it can leave a bad impression of your house.

– Rodent Damage:  If moss grows and spreads into a thick thatch, it is a perfect place for rodents and bugs to make a home.  If the roof has become damp and soft, rodents may chew roofing materials, which causes severe damage to the roof.

– Inside the House:  Moss doesn’t just remain on the roof and can travel.  For example, it can wash off the roof during a rainstorm and get tracked inside on the bottom of your shoes.  Inside, it can become moldy and cause health problems, especially for those with breathing conditions.

Prevention is Key

Regular maintenance of your roof will help prevent moss from thriving.  In order to prevent moss from growing on your roof, you have to eliminate its growing environment.  Make sure the roof is clear from debris or leaves that could lead to moisture.   If your roof is mostly in the shade during the day, trim some tree branches to allow for some direct sunlight.  Also, check your gutters for branches and debris.

If your house has multi-level roofs, be aware that moss will be more likely to grow on a lower roof where gutters from the upper roof leak.  Rainwater can trickle into the house where it can cause mold growth on interior walls and ceilings, which can be harmful to allergy and asthma sufferers.

Regular maintenance to ensure that your roof is free from growing moss is important.  If not checked, moss growth can lead to the collapse of the roof and do structural damage to other areas of the house.

My Roof Has Moss—Now What?

Roof moss is a difficult house problem that must be remedied quickly.  It is important to remove moss as soon as it starts growing so it does not damage the roof.  This can be done with a brush and water.  Vinegar can also be used to get rid of small amounts of moss.  For moss that has been living on the roof for a while, these methods will not be effective.   The more entrenched it is in the shingles, the harder it will be to remove.  Most likely, a professional such as our expert technicians at Ronk Home Maintenance will need to be contacted to get rid of it for good.

You’re Trusted Partner

At Ronk Home Services, we provide expert handyman solutions and specialize in the installation of MRCOOL Mini-splits, serving Skagit, Snohomish, Whatcom, Island, San Juan, and King Counties. Our team is dedicated to delivering top-notch service and ensuring your home remains comfortable and efficient year-round. Contact us today at 360.395.2550 to learn more about our services and how we can assist you with your home improvement needs.