The logo for sullivani golf club.

Roof Cleaning

How to Keep Moss Off Your Roof

How to Keep Moss Off Your Roof
Table of Contents

Roofs are a vital component of our homes and play a critical role in protecting the interior and preserving its aesthetic appeal. Moss growth, however, can compromise the roof’s integrity and make it look unsightly. Moss, along with algae, can cause damage to the roof’s shingles and prevent them from doing their job properly. In this article, we’ll look at the best ways to prevent moss from growing on your roof.

Table of Contents

Prevent Moss Growth

Moss thrives in moist, shady conditions, making it an ideal growth environment for many roofs. It can cause the roof’s shingles to deteriorate and make them more vulnerable to water damage. To prevent moss growth, it’s essential to understand the conditions that contribute to its growth and take steps to eliminate them. Here are some of the most effective ways to prevent moss growth on your roof:

  • Install zinc strips
    Clean gutters regularly
    Apply granules
    Rinse with bleach
    Scrub with bleach

 

moss cleaning

Install zinc strips: Zinc strips are an excellent way to prevent moss growth on your roof. Zinc is a naturally occurring mineral that has a fungicidal effect, making it toxic to moss and algae. Installing zinc strips on your roof will release small amounts of zinc into the rainwater that flows over your roof, preventing moss and algae from growing.

 

Clean gutters regularly: Clogged gutters can contribute to moss growth on your roof. When water accumulates in the gutters, it creates the perfect environment for moss and algae to grow. Regularly cleaning your gutters and ensuring that water flows freely through them will reduce the risk of moss growth on your roof.

 

Apply granules: Granules are small pieces of material that are embedded in the asphalt of your roof’s shingles. They are designed to prevent algae and moss growth on your roof. To apply granules to your roof, you’ll need to replace your old shingles with new ones that contain granules. This will not only prevent moss growth but will also add a layer of protection to your roof.

Rinse with bleach: Rinsing your roof with a solution of water and bleach can help prevent moss growth. Chlorine bleach is an effective fungicide that will kill moss and algae on contact. To rinse your roof with bleach, mix one part bleach with three parts water and apply it to the roof with a garden hose. Be sure to rinse the roof thoroughly with water after applying the bleach solution.

Scrub with bleach: If your roof has already developed moss growth, scrubbing it with a solution of water and bleach can help remove it. To do this, mix one part bleach with three parts water and apply it to the roof with a stiff-bristled brush. Scrub the roof thoroughly to remove as much moss as possible, then rinse the roof thoroughly with water.

Roof Maintenance

roof maintenance

Preventing moss growth on your roof requires regular maintenance and attention. Keeping your roof in good condition will help prevent moss and algae growth and preserve its integrity and appearance. Here are some things you can do to keep your roof in top condition:

  • Trim trees
    Inspect regularly
    Repair damage

Trim trees: Trees can create the perfect environment for moss and algae to grow on your roof. Trimming trees that overhang your roof will reduce the amount of shade and moisture that reaches your roof, reducing the risk of moss and algae growth.Keeping your trees properly pruned isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a safeguard for your roof’s longevity. Overhanging branches can be a peril during storms, leading to costly roof damage. By trimming trees regularly, you not only reduce this risk but also allow more sunlight to reach your roof, inhibiting moss and algae growth

trim trees
Inspect roof

Inspect regularly: Regular inspections of your roof will help you identify any potential problems before they become serious. Look for signs of moss growth, missing or damaged shingles, and clogged gutters. Addressing these issues promptly will help prevent moss growth and preserve the integrity of your roof. Regular roof inspections are the cornerstone of a robust maintenance plan. Your roof, like any part of your home, requires consistent attention to remain in top shape. By inspecting your roof regularly, you can catch minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs.

Repair damage: If you find any damaged shingles or other areas of your roof that are in need of repair, take care of them as soon as possible. Timely repairs are the key to preventing water damage, preserving energy efficiency, and prolonging the life of your roof. By addressing issues promptly, you protect your home from structural damage and maintain a comfortable living environment. Investing in regular maintenance and repairs is a smart choice 

Repair damage

Conclusion

Preventing moss growth on your roof is essential for maintaining its integrity and appearance. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can keep your roof in top condition and prevent moss from growing. Regular maintenance, such as trimming trees, inspecting the roof regularly, and repairing damage, is also critical for keeping your roof in good condition. By taking the time to take care of your roof, you’ll ensure that it lasts for many years to come and protects your home from the elements.

Search

Category

Categories

Recent Posts

Reviews

Exterior Cleaning Roof & Siding, Johnson, Iowa

Amazing! I had the roof, siding and soffit cleaned on my 14 year old home. I can’t believe the difference it made! It looks new again! Sullivan was great to work with. There was absolutely no trace they had been there, other than the clean house and roof! I am very pleased. I will refer my friends and family to Sullivan Roof Cleaning!

Jen Goemann, Johnson, Iowa

Siding and Deck Cleaning, Johnson, Iowa

I found Bruce and Maria via their Your Tube video demonstrating their approach to cleaning the “green” stuff growing on the north and east sides of my home. I recommend watching it, it’s exactly who they are and what they do.

My house, deck and patio look brand new! I wish I had taken before pictures. The improvement is dramatic.

They arrived as scheduled, worked efficiently and with respect for my property. The work was completed for exactly the bid they provided when they visited my home to provide a free quote. I wish all contractors were so reliable and transparent. I am a very satisfied customer.

Annette DeFrancisco, Johnson, Iowa

Cleaning Product Works-Des Moines

Bruce has done several roof cleanings for me and the results always exceed my expectations. He’s saved me thousands of dollars on my investment properties by making old roofs look brand new. He cleaned my gutters and siding in just a few minutes in what would have taken me hours with a power washer. With just a simple rinse, his cleaning solution removed dirt and grime that a pressure washer couldn’t remove. He’s got an amazing product.

Adam Lewis, Des Moines

Roof & Deck Cleaning-Ames, Iowa

Our roof and deck area look better than new and Bruce and Maria are responsible for this transformation. I am so pleased to have hired Sullivan Roof Cleaning. They were friendly, courteous, and experienced and delivered excellent results.

Marie McCuskey, Ames, Iowa

Roof & Deck Cleaning-Ames, Iowa

Our roof and deck area look better than new and Bruce and Maria are responsible for this transformation. I am so pleased to have hired Sullivan Roof Cleaning. They were friendly, courteous, and experienced and delivered excellent results.

Marie McCuskey, Ames, Iowa

Roof Cleaning-Pleasant Hill, Iowa

I was skeptical of this when my wife suggested it. I told her roofs were suppose to do this after time. I went to Menards to purchase a product and tried it in a small area ( no results) we went ahead and had it done and our roof looks like the day we had it installed. This is the best money we have spent to keep the house looking like the day we built it. GREAT JOB!!! I would recommend this to anyone.

Jeff Backous, Pleasant Hill, Iowa

Deck Cleaning-Granger, Iowa

You did an awesome job on my daughter’s log home, deck, railing, swing and chairs on the deck. They are totally impressed. My roof looks great, as well as, the stucco on front of my house. I appreciated your professionalism regarding communication and being where you said you would be at the time agreed upon.

Joan Clary, Granger, IA 09/15/2015

An older man in a white polo shirt.

Meet Bruce

50 Years of Experience &
Over 1,500 Shake Roofs Cleaned

Bruce Sullivan has over 50 years of experience in maintaining, cleaning, and restoring cedar shake roofs. Making him one of the top authorities on cedar shake roofs in the US.

Watch the Cleaning Process in Action in this video

Testimonials

Exterior Cleaning Roof & Siding, Johnson, Iowa

Amazing! I had the roof, siding and soffit cleaned on my 14 year old home. I can’t believe the difference it made! It looks new again! Sullivan was great to work with. There was absolutely no trace they had been there, other than the clean house and roof! I am very pleased. I will refer my friends and family to Sullivan Roof Cleaning!

Jen Goemann, Johnson, Iowa

Siding and Deck Cleaning, Johnson, Iowa

I found Bruce and Maria via their Your Tube video demonstrating their approach to cleaning the “green” stuff growing on the north and east sides of my home. I recommend watching it, it’s exactly who they are and what they do.

My house, deck and patio look brand new! I wish I had taken before pictures. The improvement is dramatic.

They arrived as scheduled, worked efficiently and with respect for my property. The work was completed for exactly the bid they provided when they visited my home to provide a free quote. I wish all contractors were so reliable and transparent. I am a very satisfied customer.

Annette DeFrancisco, Johnson, Iowa

Cleaning Product Works-Des Moines

Bruce has done several roof cleanings for me and the results always exceed my expectations. He’s saved me thousands of dollars on my investment properties by making old roofs look brand new. He cleaned my gutters and siding in just a few minutes in what would have taken me hours with a power washer. With just a simple rinse, his cleaning solution removed dirt and grime that a pressure washer couldn’t remove. He’s got an amazing product.

 

Adam Lewis, Des Moines

Roof & Deck Cleaning-Ames, Iowa

Our roof and deck area look better than new and Bruce and Maria are responsible for this transformation. I am so pleased to have hired Sullivan Roof Cleaning. They were friendly, courteous, and experienced and delivered excellent results.

Marie McCuskey, Ames, Iowa

Roof & Deck Cleaning-Ames, Iowa

Our roof and deck area look better than new and Bruce and Maria are responsible for this transformation. I am so pleased to have hired Sullivan Roof Cleaning. They were friendly, courteous, and experienced and delivered excellent results.

Marie McCuskey, Ames, Iowa

Roof Cleaning-Pleasant Hill, Iowa

I was skeptical of this when my wife suggested it. I told her roofs were suppose to do this after time. I went to Menards to purchase a product and tried it in a small area ( no results) we went ahead and had it done and our roof looks like the day we had it installed. This is the best money we have spent to keep the house looking like the day we built it. GREAT JOB!!! I would recommend this to anyone.

Jeff Backous, Pleasant Hill, Iowa

Deck Cleaning-Granger, Iowa

You did an awesome job on my daughter’s log home, deck, railing, swing and chairs on the deck. They are totally impressed. My roof looks great, as well as, the stucco on front of my house. I appreciated your professionalism regarding communication and being where you said you would be at the time agreed upon.

Joan Clary, Granger, IA 09/15/2015

Contact

Free No Obligation Estimation

Recent Posts

Free No Obligation Estimate