Unlike blue-green algae, mossy foliage on any asphalt-shingle roof is more than just an eyesore; this plant causes two-fold destruction. It traps moisture like a sponge, keeping roofing materials damp for extended periods, and lifts shingles as it grows, increasing the chances of water leakage.
There’s no doubt that it has to be eradicated, but the question is how? Your trusted residential roofer, Curb Appeal Exteriors, shares these three ways:
Scraping
If you spot it early enough, it can be easily swept off. Scrape it clean using a soft-bristled brush or pluck it until no trace of it is left. While this method can be effective, there’s always the risk of inadvertently scrubbing the protective granules of asphalt shingles off. This is especially true if you weren’t trained to work with these delicate roofing materials.
Power-Washing
Brushing thick clumps of moss can be a futile proposition. It could take forever to complete without any guarantee that all of it would be gone after tedious work. The efficient route to take is power-washing. A power washer can get rid of this unsightly growth much faster when used on high pressure.
However, take note of this pro tip: the force of high-velocity water can dislodge the granules. If you have broken asphalt shingles to begin with, power-washing moss can cause further damage. As a result, you might need to tackle a roofing replacement project prematurely. That’s why, as professionals, we never recommend power-washing your roof on your own.
Spraying
The most roof-friendly way to remove moss is to apply a cleaning solution. Spraying a cleanser poisons the unwanted plant without harming asphalt shingles. When done on a cloudy day, the solution won’t evaporate too quickly, retaining its potency until the moss is dead.
However, some pesticides, manufactured or homemade, can be detrimental to the health of your shrubbery. Harsh chemicals can also discolor siding panels and hardscapes, which will decrease your home’s curb appeal. If you DIY this task, one wrong move can ruin your asphalt shingles and gutters, increasing your roof repair costs.
Curb Appeal Exteriors can handle your mossy roof problem. We know what it takes to eradicate this stubborn pest in a safe and efficient manner. Call us at (404) 381-8710 now to discuss your roofing needs in Alpharetta, GA, or any neighboring community, and get a free estimate.
