Moss on the roof is a common problem for property owners. Even though the moss on the roof is inevitable, it is essential to remove it to guarantee the proper functioning of the water drainage and prevent ice damage in cold weather. The key to having a long-lasting roof is to schedule regular roof maintenance that helps you keep your roof clean and checked by roofing contractors.
Here, we will talk about why homeowners need roof moss removal, the methods, and the average cost of moss removal.
How does moss damage a roof?
Moss growth will decompose roof shingles and other roof surfaces. Although moss has no roots, it is just as dangerous for a roof as any common weeds. Moss causes microcracks in tiles where moisture starts to accumulate. Water could make the roof tiles burst at low temperatures causing leaks. This phenomenon is hazardous in winter.
Does moss grow on all roofs?
Unfortunately, today no roof covering is completely protected from moss. However, metal roofing is less damaged by moss than shingles. The metal tile is very durable and has a long service life but requires regular cleaning and maintenance. There are shingles such as Vista AR (algae-resistant) shingles that deliver excellent all-weather resilience, a Class 3 hail impact rating, and include granules that help clean the air of emission pollutants.
How does moss affect a metal roof?
Unfortunately, if you do not maintain and inspect your roof regularly, moss can seriously damage it. Moss accumulates moisture which leads to corrosion and general deterioration of shingles.
How to keep your roof moss-free?
Keeping your roof moss-free and safe requires regular roof cleaning. Moss, mold, fungus, and weeds should be removed from the roof. For the bituminous shingles, roof cleaning is required twice a year. Metal roofs must be cleaned every two years.
Installing zinc or copper strips. Zinc strips can be somewhat effective at controlling moss growth. Zinc strips work by slowly releasing zinc particles when rain water hits the strips. That rain water then runs off and inhibits moss and other organic growth on your roof.
Should you clean your roof yourself or call a professional?
You can clean the roof yourself, but we do not recommend it for several reasons:
- With no proper tools and safety equipment, you put yourself at risk of injury;
- Roof cleaning requires a relatively high level of fitness. The risk of slipping and falling is higher when surfaces are wet or covered in washing detergents;
- The cost of purchasing or hiring cleaning equipment often does not justify the purpose;
- For an inexperienced person, cleaning the roof takes a lot longer than for a professional roofing contractor;
- Improper DIY cleaning can damage the tiles or roofing structures, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
What is the average cost of moss removal from a roof?
Each client receives an individual offer for roof cleaning. The price of roof cleaning depends on the location, size and configuration of the roof, the amount of moss and other vegetation. In addition, a professional roof cleaner will know if the roof is damaged and needs more than just cleaning! Our experts are happy to give advice by phone at any time convenient for you. We will calculate the exact cost of cleaning the roof and choose the date of a visit. Leave a request in the dialog box on our website or call us at (509) 201-4190.Author: Advance Roofing Team
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