Moss is a common sight in many regions of the world. It grows easily in damp and shady areas, and can easily make its way onto your roof. While it may seem harmless, moss can have a significant impact on the health and longevity of your residential or commercial roofing system. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the ways that moss affects your roof and what you can do to prevent its growth.
Moss is a type of plant that grows in damp and shady areas. It is a simple plant that does not have roots, stems, or leaves. It grows by absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air and the surface it is growing on. Moss can be found on roofs, walls, and even on the ground.
How Does Moss Affect Your Roof?
Moss can cause significant damage to your roof if not dealt with properly. Here are some of the ways in which moss can affect your roof:
- Moss can retain moisture: Moss absorbs water and retains it, creating a damp environment that can lead to the growth of other plants such as lichen and algae. This moisture can weaken the roofing structure and cause rot.
- Moss can lift shingles: As moss grows, it can lift up the shingles on your roof. This can create gaps that allow water to seep in, leading to leaks and water damage.
- Moss can cause rust: If your roof has metal components, moss can cause rust to form. This can weaken the metal and cause it to deteriorate over time.
- Moss can create a breeding ground for pests: Moss can provide a home for pests such as rodents and insects. These pests can cause damage to your roof and even your property.
How to Prevent Moss Growth?
Preventing moss growth is the best way to protect your roof from damage. Here are some ways to prevent moss growth:
- Keep your roof clean: Regularly cleaning your roof can prevent moss from growing in the first place. Use a roof cleaner that is specifically designed to remove moss, lichen, and algae.
- Trim trees and vegetation: Trees and vegetation can create a shady environment that is perfect for moss to grow. Trimming trees and vegetation around your property can allow more sunlight to reach your roof, preventing moss growth.
- Install zinc or copper strips: Zinc and copper strips can be installed on your roof to prevent moss growth. These metals release particles that prevent moss from growing.
- Keep your gutters clean: Clogged gutters can create a damp environment that is perfect for moss to grow. Regularly cleaning your gutters can prevent this from happening.
Moss Growth – FAQs
Why Does Moss Grow On My Roof?
Moss is a common sight on roofs, and many homeowners wonder why it grows there. Moss tends to thrive in damp and shaded areas, making roofs an ideal habitat. It can grow on any type of roofing material, including asphalt shingles, wood shakes, and tiles. Moss can cause damage to your roof by trapping moisture and preventing proper drainage, leading to leaks and structural damage. If you notice moss on your roof, it’s important to take action to prevent further growth and potential damage. At Excel Roofing Solutions, we offer moss removal services to keep your roof in excellent condition and prevent future issues.
Why Shouldn’t I Add a New Roof Over Moss?
Excel Roofing Solutions suggests that homeowners should not add a new roof over moss because it can create long-term damage to the structure of the roof. Moss can hold moisture, which can lead to rot and decay. If a new roof is installed on top of the moss, the moisture will be trapped, and the decay will continue to spread. This can lead to costly repairs or even a complete roof replacement in the future.
The Benefits of Removing Moss-Covered Shingles Before a New Roof Installation
Excel Roofing Solutions recommends removing moss-covered shingles before a new roof installation for several reasons.
- Moss can hold moisture and cause the shingles to rot, leading to damage to the roof deck and potential leaks.
- Removing moss allows for inspection of the underlying shingles and deck for any necessary repairs.
- Removing moss will improve the overall appearance of the roof and increase curb appeal.
- Removing moss will prevent it from spreading to other areas of the roof, potentially causing further damage.
So, for a successful and long-lasting new roof installation, it is important to prioritize the removal of moss-covered shingles.
Roof Moss Growth – Resources
- Roof leak repairs: Greensboro, Reidsville Roof Leak Repair
- Get a FREE inspection: Best Roofing Company Near Me Contact
- Gallery: www.excelroofingsolutions.com/gallery/
- Roof Maintenance: Commercial Roof Repair Near me in Greensboro, Winston-Salem
Contact Excel Roofing Solutions Today!
Moss can cause significant damage to your roof if not dealt with properly. Regularly cleaning your roof, trimming trees and vegetation, installing zinc or copper strips, and keeping your gutters clean are all effective ways to prevent moss growth. If you notice moss growing on your roof, it’s best to deal with it as soon as possible to prevent further damage. At Excel Roofing Solutions, we offer a range of services to help you maintain a healthy roof. Contact us today to learn more. – (336) 221-4121
