How to get rid of moss on a roof is a common concern for many homeowners. But it can be done quickly and easily by simply wetting it, applying a moss killer, scrubbing it away, then rinsing it. However, according to the National Federation of Roofing Contractors, many companies are using methods that may, in fact, damage your roof more than the moss ever would.
So, in this blog, we explore how moss can be safely removed, when you might need specialist help from a London roofer and whether the presence of moss could lead to roof leaks.
How to remove moss from a roof (step by step)
You can remove moss from your roof by following some simple steps. Just remain aware that, in many cases, you won’t need to remove the moss at all, and a professional assessment may give you full clarification on whether it is necessary or not.
If you do decide to remove the moss from your roof, follow the steps below.
- Collect together the relevant safety equipment. Get goggles, gloves, a ladder, non-slip shoes and a hard hat.
- Get the cleaning materials: You’ll need a hose, bucket, or watering can so you can soak the moss. You’ll also need a soft-bristled brush and moss killer (ensure it is suitable for roofs).
- Soak the moss thoroughly.
- Apply your moss killer. Always check manufacturers’ instructions before applying. Some may need a heavier dilution than others, and some may require specific amounts of time to work.
- Scrub the moss. Loosen it from the roof surface, but don’t be too aggressive and do not use a pressure washer.
- Rinse the roof to remove any remaining debris and any trace of your moss killer.
Natural ways to kill moss on a roof
If you prefer not to use a moss killer on your roof, there are a few natural ways you can remove the lichen from your rooftop.
Vinegar solution
By mixing white vinegar with water in equal measure in a spray bottle, you have a low-cost, natural alternative to moss killer for less than one pound! It might not be the quickest solution, but spray the moss with the mixture, leave it for several hours and then scrub and rinse it as you would if applying moss killer.
Oxygen bleach
Oxygen bleach is another effective way to kill moss on a roof. You’ll mix it with water, as per the instructions, and then apply it to the moss. Leave it for a few minutes, or for as long as the instructions suggest, and then scrub and rinse to eliminate the moss on your roof.
Should you use a moss killer?
You can use a moss killer on roofs, but you must carefully check the instructions and only use a roof-specific product. Never use moss killers that are specifically made for lawns, as they could leave rust-like stains and might corrode your roof’s gutters.
Why shouldn’t you pressure wash your roof?
Many people may believe that pressure washing is the most effective way to kill moss on a roof. It would blast it away fairly quickly, but it could be the most harmful way to tackle any moss problem on your roof. A pressure washer, even at its lowest setting, is powerful, and applying it from close proximity to your roof could cause damage to it that is exacerbated by the foot traffic the roof is enduring as the moss problem is tackled. The pressure washer, combined with the extra weight, could cause cracked or broken tiles, and in some cases, much more significant damage.
Is moss on a roof actually bad?
Moss on a roof is rarely a problem unless it blocks drainage. However, in extreme cases, where the moss is significant, it could cause weaknesses in some areas of the roof. Moss holds a lot of moisture against your roof surface. This could lead to the degradation of tiles that curl, crack and become dislodged.
If this happens, the likelihood of water ingress increases. This could lead to other problems, such as leaks or structural damage.
Can moss on a roof cause roof leaks?
It could. Whilst moss is mostly harmless on a roof, if it blocks gutters or is in abundance, it might cause issues that lead to roof leaks.
Moss grows in dense, sponge-like patches. It absorbs and traps moisture directly against the roof’s surface. This can lead to degradation that eventually sees water find its way into the property. You might find that tiles have been lifted or cracked, giving water an easy route into your loft or elsewhere in the property.
When moss blocks gutters, water cannot pass. It may pool on the roof and weaken the surface or overflow onto the eaves of the house.
Why does moss grow on a roof?
Moss will grow on a roof for many reasons, and as you’ll discover in the next section, there are also ways you can stop it from returning.
For now, see why moss grows on a roof:
- Poor drainage
- High humidity
- Lack of sunlight
- North-facing slopes
- Trees surround the property
Additionally, the roof surface itself can be a huge factor. Moss and lichen can take hold because a pitched roof’s rough surface filters out dirt from rainwater, while dead leaves and other debris settle and decay on top. Airborne moss spores and seeds then land in that dirt, root and spread.
How to stop moss from coming back on your roof tiles
Once you have removed the moss, you’ll want to stop it from returning. You can do that by:
- Improving drainage: Regular gutter cleaning in London can go some way to stopping moss from returning. With no debris to block the gutters, water will flow through them uninterrupted.
- Trim overhanging branches: Moss thrives in shaded and cool areas. By trimming back any branches that overhang, you expose more of the roof to sunlight, denying moss the chance to thrive.
- Regular maintenance & roof inspections: Roof inspections, either by yourself or a professional London roofer, can be a valuable way to spot and then address problems before they escalate.
- Add zinc or copper strips to roof ridges: A cheap way to stop moss is to add a 2-inch-wide strip of copper or zinc across the ridge of your roof, as close to the pitch as you can. When it rains, the copper salt or zinc runoff will be washed down the roof from the strips, lightly coating the roof and making it much harder for moss to take hold.
Should you attempt to remove moss from a roof yourself or hire a professional?
In many cases, removing moss yourself can be quick and easy. It doesn’t require much effort and isn’t expensive. However, concerns about going up on the roof are understandable, so it may be best to hire a professional. Likewise, encountering much larger problems, such as roof leak repairs or a blocked gutter, will be out of range for most people as a DIY job. Again, that’s the time to call professional roofers like those at London Property Services. We offer 24/7 coverage with fully trained and qualified roofers available to make your roof safe. Contact our team today to book a free roof survey or learn more about our roofing services.
