Moss growth on roofs, especially roofs that are chronically shaded, can be much bigger than just an aesthetic problem. 

Here’s a short guide on what you can do about it before you seek professional help. 

Why You Need to Remove Moss

First off, moss growth on roof shingles is a gigantic eyesore. Not only that, but the aesthetic harm can damage the value of your home. 

Even if that were not the case, moss actively damages roofs because it retains moisture. This can cause chronic damage to the roof by accelerating the degradation of roof shingles, causing them to lift or peel, or accelerating leaks which can cause rot and mold to form underneath the roof. 

How to Do It 

Fortunately, removing moss from a roof, though it will take some knowledge and a little elbow grease, isn’t a course in rocket science. Here’s how you can get rid of it. 

1. Make sure the roof is clear

Before you attempt to remove any moss from your roof, make sure that the roof is clear of leaf clutter and other debris. 

2. Kill the moss

Then, you need to kill the moss before you can effectively remove it. There are many options you can follow hereunder. 

One is to purchase a commercial moss killer and use it according to the manufacturer instructions. Another is to make your own moss killer at home; a solution of bleach and water (5% bleach or so) sprayed on the moss should kill it within a few weeks. 

Other methods for killing moss include concentrated vinegar and even powdered Tide detergent. Apply these to the moss and wait a week or so. The moss should begin to turn color, either to brown or white, before it dies and becomes brittle. 

3. Remove the moss

Once the moss has died and dried out it will be much easier to remove. You can use either a brush or a broom or even a scraper to remove the dead moss from the roof, whatever works best. 

4. Clean the roof

Once you’ve removed the moss from the roof, clean the roof off. You can hose it down or sweep it off, whatever is best for you. 

5. Prevent future moss growth

If you had moss once, the conditions likely exist for it to come back, so removing moss is only treating the symptom, not the cause. 

In that case, you should address some of the factors that may have caused mold growth in the first place. 

• Trim any branches that are overhanging the roof, and which will shade it and drop moisture onto it.
• Repair areas of the roof that are damaged or which allow for standing water to accumulate, which will encourage mold growth. 
• Consider treating your roof with a preventative agent that is formulated to prevent the growth of moss. 

Does Your Roof Need Work? Get In Touch with a Roofing Contractor Near You

There may come a time at which your entire roof needs repair or replacement, not just the isolated removal of a single spot of moss growth. When that time comes, you should look for the help of roofing contractors near you, rather than a DIY guide for moss removal. 

For those of you around Indianapolis, the first place you should look for help is Roof Masters. They specialize in roof replacement and repair and are expedient, professional, and vetted by countless positive reviews. 

Visit their website if you want a professional estimate for repair or replacement or get in touch with them directly if you have any questions about moss growth, roof conditions, or repair or replacement.

For more information about Siding Contractors Carmel and Roof Company Indianapolis Please visit : Roof Masters and Exteriors.