Remove Moss From Asphalt Shingle Roof

Lichens and moss accelerate.

Remove moss from asphalt shingle roof.

Though the roofs looked cool i knew the shingles probably wouldn t last too much longer. The most effective method of cleaning algae and moss from a roof is with a 50 50 mix of laundry strength liquid chlorine bleach and water. Once the moss has been thoroughly eradicated from the roof take steps to keep moss from returning. If the shingles are wood this process can happen at an alarming rate.

The roof growth gave character to many seaside and forest cottages. You can remove moss and lichens from your roof by using vinegar as a environmentally friendly weedkiller. Apply a storebought or diy cleaning solution to remove the moss. Cleaning asphalt shingles of clumps of moss or algae that have taken root in the roof can feel like an overwhelming endeavor.

The high powered water jets can damage shingles and remove the shingle granules that protect the roof. Once moss has adhered to wood shingles the moss can be harder to remove than it is from the relatively smoother planes of composite or asphalt shingles. There are many ways to remove moss that tends to grow in shaded areas. Lichens and moss loosen the granules on the shingle surface exposing the asphalt and fiberglass base materials.

Moss itself is a plant while lichen conisist of a fungus and a photosyntheizing plant living together. Yes roof moss can shorten the lifespan of untreated wood and asphalt roofing materials. Wood s porous surface is prime real estate for moss growth. When leaves and other material collect on your roof a perfect bed is formed for moss and lichens to grow.

The thick moss growth with its shallow root system keeps the roofing materials damp for extended periods of time and this moisture promotes wood rot and can and does erode the asphalt in shingles. One of the most common solutions to remove algae or moss is to lightly spray wash the roof with a 50 50 mix of water and bleach to remove the algae or moss no pressure washers they will strip off the granules and may cause. The asphalt roofing manufacturers association distinguishes between moss a plant with leaves that can grow into thick clumps and mold and mildew which are common names for types of algae. Keeping branches trimmed back from the roof and removing any debris that begins to accumulate should be part of a regular roof maintenance program.

The damage can reduce shingle lifespan. Using bleach is recommended by most shingle roof manufactures and the arma asphalt roofing manufactures association. Algae and moss growth on roofs at a minimum is an unsightly nuisance.