Dealing with Moss on Your Asphalt Shingle Roof

Effective Solutions for Homeowners

As a homeowner, discovering moss on your asphalt shingle roof can be both alarming and frustrating. Moss not only detracts from the aesthetic appeal of your home but can also cause significant damage to your roofing materials, leading to costly repairs if left untreated. This blog post aims to provide you with effective solutions to deal with moss on your asphalt shingle roof and prevent its recurrence.

Understanding Moss Growth

Moss thrives in moist, shaded environments, making your roof an ideal habitat if it’s frequently exposed to these conditions. The presence of moss can cause shingles to lift and curl, compromising the integrity of your roof. Over time, moss can also lead to water damage and leaks, further exacerbating the problem.

Causes of Moss Growth

Moss growth on roofs is primarily caused by:

• Shaded areas where sunlight is limited
• High humidity and moisture retention
• Accumulation of organic debris such as leaves and branches
• Poor roof ventilation

Prevention Tips

To prevent moss from growing on your asphalt shingle roof, consider the following tips:

• Trim Overhanging Branches: Reduce shade by trimming trees and branches that overhang your roof.
• Clean Gutters Regularly: Ensure that gutters are free of debris to prevent water accumulation and moisture retention.
• Enhance Roof Ventilation: Improve air circulation in your attic to reduce humidity levels.
• Install Zinc or Copper Strips: Metal strips along the roof ridge can help prevent moss growth, as rainwater releases metal ions that inhibit moss formation.

Removing Moss from Your Roof

If moss has already taken root on your roof, it’s important to remove it promptly to avoid further damage. Here are some effective methods for moss removal:

Manual Removal

Manual removal involves using a brush or scraper to gently detach moss from the shingles. Be cautious not to damage the shingles in the process.

Chemical Treatments

Chemical treatments, such as moss-killing solutions, can be sprayed onto the affected areas of your roof. These solutions typically contain ingredients that kill moss and prevent its regrowth. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use environmentally-friendly products.

Pressure Washing

Pressure washing can be effective in removing moss but requires careful handling to avoid damaging the shingles. Use a low-pressure setting and direct the water flow downward.

Professional Assistance

While DIY methods can be effective, seeking professional assistance may be necessary for severe moss infestations or if you’re uncomfortable performing the tasks yourself. Roofing professionals have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively remove moss and address underlying issues that contribute to its growth.

Conclusion

There are many ways to clean asphalt roofing shingles. We always recommend contacting a professional first. Not only are estimates free, but a licensed roofing contractor has the experience, knowledge and above all safety equipment to properly inspect your roofing system. As many of us do, if you prefer a DIY project for your roof cleaning, we insist you only use products specifically recommended for asphalt roofing shingle cleanings and never pressure your roof shingles.

With a professional roof cleaning, you are not only ensuring proper roof maintenance to your shingles, but you also get a thorough inspection of the entire roofing system. This can be reassuring in knowing that your roof is in good condition or an opportunity to identify any potential issues with the roof that can lead to major repairs or replacement.

Here at MCE, we offer free evaluations of your roofing system. Give MCE a call at (503) 397-2215 or Fill Out Our Free Roofing Consultation Form to schedule a contact-free roof evaluation. We are family owned and operated serving Columbia County, the Portland Metro and surrounding areas with over 25 years of experience.