When moss starts to grow on a shady section, you’ll need to know how to remove moss from your roof. Letting moss grow unchecked will deteriorate roofing materials. As the moss spreads, it lifts shingles and lets water penetrate your roof. Scrubbing off the moss is not a complicated task. Paying attention to your safety while on the roof is the most important part. Here, the roofing experts at PJ Fitzpatrick share their insight with detailed instructions.

Roof Cleaning Procedure

1. Dress in old clothes, slip-resistant shoes and wear safety glasses.
2. Spread plastic sheeting beneath your work area to protect plants from cleaning product that will run off the roof.
3. Carefully use the ladder to access moss on your roof.
4. Tie yourself to a safety line, if desired. If not, take extreme precaution when using the ladder and while on the roof.
5. Use the hose sprayer to wet down the mossy area and loosen things up. (Don’t use a pressure washer. It will damage the shingles.)
6. Use the long-handled brush to scrub the shingles and physically remove moss. Scrub downward so that you’re not forcing dirt and vegetation underneath the shingles.
7. Apply cleaner with a sprayer to kill remaining moss spores and residue.
   1. If you use moss remover from the store, follow directions for application.
   2. If using a homemade cleaner, let it set for about 20 minutes. A 50/50 mix of water and chlorine bleach works very well.
8. Rinse the cleaner away.

How to Prevent Moss Growth on Roofs

Moss grows most commonly on north-facing roofs because moisture lingers without direct sun exposure. Roofs beneath tree limbs can also become mossy because of the shade and the buildup of tree debris. Trimming tree limbs back from your house so that sun can reach the roof will hinder moss growth.

In persistently mossy roof areas, you could attach strips of zinc or copper to the top of the roof. Zinc and copper molecules kill moss and algae. Special asphalt shingles that include copper offer another long-term solution to prevent moss growth. PJ Fitzpatrick has been in business since 1980. We’ve provided this information about how to remove moss from roofs to help you maintain the integrity of your home. If you have any questions about the process, or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.