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People often wonder about removing moss from the roof, as they may not understand whether it is a bad thing or not. Moss may seem charming and have people thinking it makes their place look quaint, but it can lead to both occupant health risks and building structural concerns. The best time to remove the plants can be a concern, but a person also needs to know proper removal methods and ways to prevent future issues. Remember that most homes are not built in a way that can handle plant growth, especially if a person is wanting to modernize further.
Why Moss Is A Problem For Your Roof?
There are two primary reasons moss can be an issue, which can lead to other problems far bigger. One is the fact that this plant growth presents the perfect environment for mold to start growing, which can lead to illnesses that will send a person to the doctor far more often than is comfortable. The second issue is that the moss will start moving into cracks and holes, enlarging them to a point that will hurt the structural integrity with the help of weather it will allow in with more hole size.
The Best Time of Year to Remove Moss from Roof
People need to understand which is the best time of year to remove moss from the roof, as this will help with being able to keep it off longer. Hot days with lower humidity are best while watching weather conditions.
1. Spring/Early Summer
This is considered by most experts to be the best time for removal, as the weather is conducive to drying out for areas and allows people to not get too hot while doing the work. It allows the easiest removal, as the plant is at its most brittle.
2. Late Summer/Early Fall
This is the second best time to handle moss, but it can start having the most heated and humid days. It is better to hit the roof earlier in this time period, but just keep track of the weather and maintain safety while handling the issue.
3. Fall/Wet Months
People may start seeing moss growth at this time, so they need to consider the weather before any removal. The moss can already be reaching into areas from fresh growth that people do not see, so it can cause regrowth in places not seen until it is too late.
4. Winter
This is the absolute worst time to try to remove any moss, especially as this will be when the plant has the most moisture. It will also have the most parts hidden from sight, so it would be tougher to deal with most removal methods used.
Options for Removing Moss from Your Roof
Moss removal can be simple during the driest days, as it just takes a broom. That said, there can be the need for chemicals if the growth has been there for a while and set in. Only those chemicals that will not poison the soil are best, with there being many options available at stores. Bleach content is important, especially if mixing chemicals at home, as it can be harmful long term to where it lands on the ground. That said, it can help remove moss that is sticking more to the roof.
Prevention Tips
Some things can help a property owner keep moss from growing that is fairly simple to do. The first is to make sure that anything causing lots of shade is removed, as this takes away the ideal growing area. Algae resistant shingles are the best roof materials to kill growth before it starts after that. Certain metals put at the roof zenith will wash chemicals down that will harm growth and help keep the process going. Regular inspections are the last bit to keep watch for any area that needs attention for added prevention capabilities.
When to Call a Professional?
The best time to call a professional can vary depending on what a person is dealing with and when. If a person has bought or inherited a building that has decent moss growth, a professional can clean it off and do the right inspection to access prevention methods. The second time that a person needs to call in a professional is if the roof or surrounding area could cause issues that can lead to longer term problems. That being the case, they will have access to better equipment and methods for the entire removal process.
Moss may seem to be pretty, but if it is on a roof, this can become an expensive addition that can cause more damage than good. There are options, especially if a person wants to keep it on the surrounding terrain, just not where it can become damaging.
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Frequently Asked Questions
To prevent future roof damage, it is crucial to conduct regular inspections and maintenance. Start by inspecting your roof at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall, and after severe weather events. Look for signs of wear and tear such as cracked, missing, or curling shingles, and address these issues promptly. Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to prevent water backup, which can cause leaks and damage. Trim overhanging tree branches to prevent them from falling on the roof or causing excessive shade, which can lead to moss and algae growth. Additionally, check for proper attic ventilation and insulation to prevent heat and moisture buildup, which can deteriorate the roof structure. Hiring a professional for a detailed inspection and any necessary repairs can further safeguard your roof’s integrity and extend its lifespan.
