Surprisingly enough, there is quite a bit of debate among roof repair contractors about the impact of roof moss on the condition of a roof. Some stating that no harm will come to a roof with moss, while others claim it can cause irreparable damage. Here we are going to set the record straight on roof moss.
What is Moss?
Moss is a patch of flowerless plants that grow most effectively in moist, shady conditions. There are over 12,000 varieties of moss, each one falling into one of seven different classes. Moss has no roots, meaning it is non-vascular. It instead absorbs water through its appendages. With no roots, the plant grows wider rather than upwards. When moss is allowed to grow it can provide a nice rustic look, however the damage it can cause to your roof can make the appearance benefits not worth it.
Should I Remove Moss from my Roof?
According to the roof repair experts at Home Re-Nu. A single spore landing on your roof can lead to the growth and spread of moss on your roof. While not a large issue at first, if left to grow and spread, this can quickly cause a lot of problems with your roof.
Mold
When moss is left to grow in abundance, it can become a breeding ground for moisture loving pests like mosquitoes and mold. Mold not only shortens the lifespan of your roof, but can be a direct cause of health issues. It also attracts animals such as rodents, who will feed off the now rotting roof.
Leaks and Holes
Moss is known to grow underneath shingles, and slowly rip them from your roof. This can cause a lot of damage, causing leaks. Eventually this will lead to complete structural instability of your roof. At that point, even when you remove the moss from your roof, you will most likely take many of the shingles with it that have become entangled in the moss, leading to even more repairs needing to be made.
What to Consider before Removing Moss
Now that you understand all of the issues that can arise by allowing moss to grow, it is important to consider the consequences of removing it. While it is always better to remove the moss rather than let it grow, keep in mind that once moss has grown, some damage may still occur even if you choose to remove it.
Chemicals
Using household cleaners to remove moss can hurt your roof more than help it. Come cleaning products can cause damage such as flashing, and can stain parts of the roof. Professional roof cleaners have specialized cleaning supplies that are made for roofs and will not damage them. It is highly recommended that you contact a professional before trying to remove moss chemically.
Structure Damage
Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of walking on their roof to clean it. This is not a good idea, as most roofs cannot withstand the weight of people standing on them, especially if they are damaged. It is best to use a ladder to remove the moss if at all possible.
Have Questions?
If you have any more questions or are looking for a roof repair or inspection, do not hesitate to contact the roof repair experts at Home Re-Nu today. Our team would be happy to answer any questions you may have, and help you get your roof into the best shape it can be. Contact us today!