Moss on Roof Tiles: Is It a Problem?
Moss on roof tiles can cause multiple problems such as wood rotting and the obstruction of drainage points.
Ultimately moss growth on a roof can result in costly repairs, and can also reduce the lifespan of your roof.
Removal of moss from roof tiles often requires the services of a professional contractor, but there are also easy things you can do at home to prevent moss from growing on your roof tiles.
Moss on Roof Tiles: Is it a problem?
Most roofs will experience moss or lichen growth, and small patches of growth are usually not a problem.
If the moss growth is allowed to develop further, it can become a problem for the roof for a number of reasons:
- Moss acts like a sponge, absorbing large amounts of moisture and resulting in your roof being constantly wet. If this moisture travels underneath the tiles, it could rot the wooden components of the roof, threatening structural integrity and leading to costly repairs.
- The main benefit of a pitched roof is the easy drainage of precipitation due to the sloped angle. However, moss can obstruct the path of the water by absorbing the moisture instead of letting it drain away.
- Moss can break off and fall into gutters or downpipes, blocking your drainage system. If this issue is not spotted, it could potentially lead to parts of your drainage system requiring replacement.
- Roof moss could potentially attract bird and insect life, which is not beneficial for the aesthetic value of your roof, e.g. defactation. Birds can also break up moss, dislodging these pieces and causing them to drop into your gutters or downpipes.
How do I remove moss from my roof tiles?
To avoid expensive repairs, moss should be removed from your roof tiles quickly if it is covering a significant area of your roof. Avoid pressure washing your roof to remove moss, as this could cause damage to the tiles and lead to the drenching of your roof interior
A few options you have include:
- Moss can be removed from roof tiles by gently brushing it off if the growth is not too severe. Try using a long handled brush, and be careful when walking atop your roof.
- Applying moss killer is an obvious removal option, but be aware that these chemicals have the potential to contaminate the groundwater. Always use appropriate protective clothing if you have chosen to use chemicals.
- Specialists can assess your roof’s condition and the extent of the moss problem, and take action accordingly. Often a thorough clean is all that’s needed. Hiring a skilled and experienced roofing professional to remove the moss will minimise the risk of damaging your roof during removal.
How can I prevent moss from growing on my roof tiles?
You can prevent moss from growing on your roof tiles by installing copper ridges to your roof.
When rainwater falls on these ridges, a coppery residue is released and runs down the roof, discouraging moss growth.
Regular maintenance and cleaning is often enough to keep your roof in a healthy condition.
Once or twice a year, give your roof a wash but avoid using damaging pressure washers.
However you decide to tackle the moss on your roof, be wary of the dangers of working on your roof.
If in doubt, it’s always best to hire the services of a professional roofing company who can carry out the job safely and thoroughly.
Here at Abbey Roofing, we have a dedicated and skilled team of roofers with more than 20 years’ experience working in both the domestic and commercial roofing sectors.
We work hard all year round, carrying out emergency repairs and re-roofing, and take great pride in the reliable and quality service we deliver.
We offer a range of roofing services including; lead roofing, slate roofing, flat roofing, felt roofing, sheet metal roofing, emergency roof repairs, commercial roofing, new roof installations, gutter cleaning.
To customers in Hemel Hempstead, Watford, St Albans, Bedford, Slough, Milton Keynes, Watford, Barnet, Harpenden and beyond.
Why not contact Abbey Roofing for a free quote today, quality skilled trademen at great prices!