Keeping your roof clean is crucial in helping you to avoid the cost of large repairs. Moss should be removed as soon as possible, especially if it is covering a large section of your roof. If moss is left to grow it can trap water on your roof, resulting in a leak. Moss also seriously impacts asphalt shingles by causing them to curl up and blow off. It is recommended to homeowners that they clean their roof every two years (minimum). This should be done as a preventative measure and you should not wait until there is a large build-up of moss. Hiring a professional roof cleaning company to remove the moss can save you a lot of time. If you live in Hale, you will need roof cleaning in Hale by a good roof cleaning company.
To remove the moss from your asphalt shingles, follow these steps:
- Hose and brush off any moss that is easily removed
- Apply a 50/50 solution of chlorine bleach and water
- Allow the solution to sit on the roof tiles for 15 to 20 minutes
- Rinse gently and thoroughly with water
- Install zinc or copper strips to prevent future moss from growing
You may want to consider a professional in order to stay clear of avoidable mistakes. However, if you are tackling this job yourself, here are some helpful tips to guide you in the process.
- Timing: The best time to plan your attack is when the moss is actively growing. Moss growth is at its peak when there is the most rainfall during fall, early winter and spring. You also do not want to clean your roof on a day that it is raining or on a day that is too hot (causing your solution to evaporate).
- Avoid pressure washing: Pressure washing to remove moss may damage the roof tiles, causing the roof interior to become wet which could cause a leak. When washing and rinsing your roof, use a sprayer attached to your garden hose.
- Trim overhanging trees: Trees surrounding your house could be keeping your roof moist and allowing moss to grow. Pruning any branches will help prevent new moss from growing.
- Clean up after storms: A simple cleaning of leaves and other debris after large storms will help stop moisture from accumulating.
- Try moss killer: This is a powder you sprinkle on your roof tiles that will kill moss.
- Try baking soda: You can also sprinkle baking soda on your roof tiles to help keep the moss down.
- Use zinc or copper strips: The metal releases particles when the rain water hits the strips, you can cut or buy pre-made strips and slide them under the row of roof shingles on the ridge of your roof.
- Think of the environment: Rinse plants nearby with plain water and cover them before cleaning with the bleach solution, then rinse again when you are done.
- Protect your skin and eyes: Wear gloves and goggles when handling chemicals and wear slip resistant shoes when climbing around on your roof!
The longer your roof lasts, the better! Removing moss build-up is the first step you can take in insuring its longevity.
