RoofViews

Your Home

Roof Moss Removal: How to Remove Moss on Roof Shingles

June 30, 2023

Grey asphalt shingles, one part with roof moss, one part clean.

While moss can sometimes give a roof an appealingly aged, old-world look, unfortunately it can also have a severe impact on its durability if left untreated. If you notice any of these tiny, fast-growing plants taking up residence on top of your home, it's best to start the roof moss removal process sooner rather than later. The longer it's left, the harder it is to remove—and the greater the damage to your roof.

One thing to know is that moss doesn't necessarily just stay on your roof's surface: it's also happy to begin spreading its tendrils beneath the shingles. And since moss collects moisture, it will expand and then lift your shingles, creating openings for water to get through. Moss also causes shingle deterioration by removing the granules that protect the roof against ultraviolet rays. Read on to learn more about roof moss, the steps to take to get it removed by a professional, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Why Moss Grows on Roofs and How to Prevent It

Shade and excessive moisture are the key factors that can encourage moss to build up on your roof. Getting rid of these two conditions and having systems in place to avoid them in future can help prevent moss from popping up.

Shade

Moss plants prefer to grow in the shade, so removing any obviously shady areas is a useful first preventative step. This might mean trimming tree branches that extend over your roof, for instance. Trimming branches can also reduce the chance of damage to your shingles if branches snap and fall during a storm.

Drainage

Ensure your roof has a working drainage system to avoid water buildup. Routinely clean your gutters and downspouts to remove any leaves or debris that might prevent rainwater from properly draining away.

How Moss Can Damage Your Roof

Moss can damage your roof in several ways, some of which can cause additional problems inside your home.

Since moss absorbs water, rainwater is absorbed by the moss instead of just draining away or drying off. This retained water can degrade shingles over time, causing them to lose protective granules that protect your home against UV rays.

The excess moisture can also make its way to the roofing materials below the shingles, causing wood and other structural rot inside your home. Mold growth in the roof and attic can also occur due to moisture retained by moss.

In addition, moss can attract pests such as insects and birds. If the moss has also created openings beneath the shingles, this could lead to a serious pest infestation that would be expensive to remove.

How to Remove Moss from Your Roof

Removing moss from your roof can help you avoid these potentially significant forms of damage, so it's important to look out for any spots you find growing there and deal with them sooner rather than later.

1. Call a Roofing Professional

Rather than getting up on the roof yourself, it's a smart idea to contact a professional, who can ensure the moss is removed safely.

2. Moss Remover Spray Solution

Your contractor will most likely use a spray solution to kill off the moss, which makes it easier to remove. Note that many roof moss removal solutions can also damage other plants. In case the solution drips off your roof, it's a good idea to cover up any plant life that might be underneath to keep it safe and to make the contractor aware of garden areas where they should be extra-careful.

3. Rinsing the Solution

After letting the solution soak for the appropriate time, your contractor can rinse all the treated areas with water, using a hose. They should apply the water at a low pressure toward the moss, ensuring the water only targets the moss and shingles at a downward angle. Spraying pressurized water at an upward angle can cause shingles to lift and possibly warp.

4. Removing the Moss

It will now be much easier to have the moss removed from your shingles. From the safety of a secured ladder, a professional can remove as much moss as they can from the shingles. Another method is to use a reaching stick to clear some areas without needing to climb on the roof. Whichever method is used, a roofing professional will know best how to proceed to ensure your roof is adequately cleaned.

Maintenance

While you might be tempted to use a pressure washer yourself to clean the roof yourself, resist this urge. A pressure washer releases water too powerfully, which can cause your roof shingles to lose their granules and lift. The best way to keep your roof moss-free is to make sure it is routinely inspected for this or any other potential infestation or problem—minor or major. Professional roof inspections are an important part of maintaining your roof so it will have a longer lifespan and save you money on expensive repairs or replacement down the road. Contact a roofing professional certified by GAF^*in your area for your next inspection!

^*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products.

About the Author

Mark Soto

Mark Soto is a freelance writer from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He has comprehensive knowledge of home improvement projects based on his previous work. Mark comes from a family of DIYers and has worked with landscapers, plumbers, painters and other contractors. He also writes about camping and his enthusiasm for the outdoors.

If your roof has been showing signs of wear and you've finally decided to replace it, you'll naturally want to know what to expect and how long the process will take. But simply asking a contractor "How long does it take to replace a roof?" won't always give you the same answer.While an asphalt shingle roof replacement on an average-sized home can often be completed in one to two days, many factors can influence how long the replacement actually takes. Here's a look at the steps involved in a roof replacement and the variables that can affect the timing.Securing an EstimateThe first step in any roof replacement project is meeting with your contractor. They'll assess your roof, secure measurements, and review material choices with you. Many contractors rely on technologies like aerial imagery and remote measurement services that allow them to deliver an estimate within a few hours or the next day.After reviewing your estimate and roofing system options, your contractor should have a good idea of how long the project will take (and how much it will cost) based on their past experiences.Accessing Your RoofOnce crews arrive at your home to begin work, they'll need to use ladders or scaffolding to get themselves, their tools, and the roofing materials onto your roof. Complex landscaping, closely situated neighbors, or even a fence around the property can make it more difficult and time-consuming to position dumpsters, stage materials, and dispose of waste.Having to move items around and prepare the space before work can begin can add hours to the front end, potentially causing the project to take longer overall. Accordingly, make sure your roof is accessible and your property is free of hazards before the crews arrive.Discovering Hidden Roof IssuesYour roof replacement includes removing the old roofing system, down to the plywood roof decking. This process is typically accomplished in a few hours. Once the wood decking is exposed, your contractor will be able to see if any water intrusion has caused it to rot.Damaged or rotting plywood will need to be replaced, which can add time to your roof installation—anywhere from a few hours to an extra day.Calculating Your Roof's Size and ComplexityIf your home has a steep pitch—generally greater than an 8:12 slope—the roofing crews will require specialized safety equipment, and they won't be able to work as fast as they could on a lower-pitched roof. Roofs that feature many intersecting planes, angles, and penetrations take longer, as these features require crews to cut more shingles during the installation, adding time to the job.Factoring in Weather on Installation DayIf rain is in the forecast, this could cause your roofing installation to take longer. If the morning weather is clear, but rain is expected in the afternoon, the crews may only complete part of your roof and have to return the next day to finish the installation.Roofers typically start work early in the day. But during cold weather, frost on the roof can make it dangerous. They'll have to take extra safety precautions or start working later in the morning after the frost is gone.All of these environmental factors can impact the roofing crews' ability to work. So, ask your contractor about contingency plans before work begins, and inquire how weather might push the completion date.Improving VentilationVentilation is critical to your roofing system's performance. It prevents moisture from becoming trapped in your attic, which can lead to interior damage to your home. If your contractor determines your home has poor attic ventilation, they'll need to correct that during the roof installation process, adding time to the project.So How Long Does It Take to Replace a Roof?No two roofs are the same, so the best answer to "how long does it take to replace a roof" will vary based on factors specific to your home and location. Start by asking your contractor for a project timeline, and inquire how they'll manage any issues that can cause delays, such as hidden damage or the weather.When you work with a GAF-certified roofing contractor, you can rest assured they have the experience and knowledge to keep your project on track, efficiently handling unexpected delays or other challenges.Interested in getting an estimate on a roof replacement? Get started with your project by finding a GAF-certified contractor*.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.

La línea más nueva de tejas asfálticas reflectantes diseñadas por GAF, Timberline HDZ® Reflector Series, puede brindarle a su hogar más protección contra la intemperie y un atractivo aspecto exterior.Las tejas para techado, disponibles en elegantes colores oscuros, crean una estética atractiva que puede usarse para cumplir con ciertos requisitos de códigos relacionados con la reflectancia. Esto es particularmente importante en California, donde los códigos edilicios estatales, como el Título 24, y las normativas locales, como el Código Edilicio Ecológico del condado de Los Ángeles, requieren una reflectancia específica en los techos para ayudar a conservar energía.A continuación le mostramos lo que debe saber sobre estas nuevas tejas reflectantes, incluida su tecnología exclusiva y el potencial para permitir ahorros en costos de energía.Características de las tejas Reflector SeriesLas tejas Timberline HDZ® RS tienen varios puntos fuertes que les permiten destacarse respecto de la competencia. Gracias a su diseño, las características de las tejas de techado mejoran la reflectancia y ofrecen protección adicional contra las algas y el viento.Gránulos EcoDark®Las tejas Timberline HDZ® RS cuentan con gránulos EcoDark®, una tecnología con una nueva fórmula que ofrece colores oscuros ricos y profundos sin perder reflectancia. Entre los colores disponibles se incluye carbón, que actualmente es el color más oscuro con alta reflectancia en California, y varias otras combinaciones, cada una con un aspecto completo y dimensional.Tecnología LayerLock®Las tejas asfálticas tradicionales tienen varias capas de material conectado con adhesivo o fijadores mecánicos. Con la tecnología GAF LayerLock®, las capas de tejas se fijan mecánicamente. Esto ofrece protección adicional contra el viento, que puede desprender las tejas del techo.Gracias a la tecnología, GAF puede afirmar que es pionero en otra cosa en la industria: ofrecer una garantía sin límite de viento máximo**.Cuatro beneficios de las tejas Reflector Series para propietariosLas tejas Timberline HDZ® RS le ofrecen varios beneficios.1. Cumplimiento de los códigos y reducción del costo de refrigeraciónEn California, las tejas RS pueden usarse para cumplir los requisitos de reflectancia solar de edificios residenciales altos, según se indica en el título 24, parte 6 del Código de Regulaciones de California de 2022 y el Código de Estándares Edilicios Ecológicos del condado de Los Ángeles. Ambos códigos fijan un índice de reflectancia mínima, denominado índice reflectivo solar (SRI, solar reflective index), que mide la capacidad de un material para reflejar el sol y la luz solar. Cuanto menor sea el valor de SRI (de 0 a 100), más caliente será un material bajo la luz solar. Cuanto mayor el valor, más frío será el material.Las tejas con un SRI más alto, como GAF Timberline HDZ® RS, reflejan más luz solar, ayudan a reducir la temperatura interna y la energía (y los costos) que se necesita para refrigerar su hogar.2. Colores oscuros y ricos que combinan con cualquier estilo o estéticaYa no tendrá que elegir entre colores oscuros, ricos y profundos, populares en la arquitectura moderna, y el cumplimiento de los requisitos de reflectancia. Además de ofrecer una opción en color carbón, el color de alta reflectancia más oscuro, los otros colores de la línea cuentan con mezclas de colores GAF High Definition® que le brindan a las tejas Reflector Series un aspecto dimensional similar a las tejas de madera.3. Protección contra algas verde-azuladasLas manchas de algas verde-azuladas, una cianobacteria llamada gloeocapsa magma, pueden reducir el valor de su hogar. Las tejas HDZ® RS incluyen la tecnología contra las algas GAF Time-Release, que utiliza cápsulas especialmente diseñadas impregnadas con miles de partículas de cobre. El cobre se libera de manera uniforme a lo largo del tiempo y evita el crecimiento de las algas durante muchos años. Gracias a esta tecnología, GAF ofrece una garantía limitada de protección contra las algas StainGuard Plus™ de 25 años*, que es especialmente beneficiosa en climas cálidos, húmedos y costeros como el de California.4. Garantía contra viento sin límite máximo de velocidad de vientoCuando se instala con la cantidad requerida de accesorios del sistema de techado GAF, la tecnología LayerLock® de las tejas Timberline HDZ® Reflector Series le permite a GAF ofrecer una garantía contra viento limitada WindProven™ de 15 años** sin límite máximo de velocidad de viento.Una opción elegante para los propietarios de CaliforniaSi vive en California, las tejas GAF Timberline HDZ® RS son una opción inteligente para cumplir los estrictos requisitos de reflectancia estatales y, al mismo tiempo, seguir el sentido estético y estilístico de la arquitectura moderna. Las características de las tejas le brindan protección adicional a su hogar y pueden reducir los costos de refrigeración, algo que puede suponer un ahorro para su bolsillo.¿Está listo para obtener estos beneficios en su techo? Comuníquese con el contratista de techado certificado por GAF*** más cercano para obtener más información.*La garantía limitada StainGuard Plus™ de 25 años contra decoloración provocada por algas verde-azuladas está disponible solo en productos vendidos en paquetes que incluyen el logotipo StainGuard Plus™. *La garantía limitada StainGuard Plus PRO™ de 30 años contra decoloración provocada por algas verde-azuladas está disponible solo en productos vendidos en paquetes que incluyen el logotipo StainGuard Plus PRO™. Consulte la Garantía limitada de tejas y accesorios GAF para conocer la cobertura y las restricciones completas.**La garantía limitada contra viento WindProven™ de 15 años en tejas Timberline® HDZ™ requiere el uso de fajas iniciales GAF, protección de cubierta de techo, cumbreras para tejas y barrera contra filtraciones o ventilación de áticos. Consulte la Garantía limitada del sistema de techado GAF para conocer la cobertura y las restricciones completas. Visite gaf.com/LRS para conocer los productos GAP elegibles.***Los contratistas inscritos en programas de certificación GAF no son empleados ni agentes de GAF, que no controla ni supervisa de ningún otro modo estas empresas independientes. Los contratistas pueden recibir beneficios, como puntos de recompensa de programas de lealtad y descuentos en herramientas de marketing de GAF, por participar en el programa y ofrecer garantías mejoradas de GAF, que requieren el uso de una cantidad mínima de productos de GAF. Sus arreglos con un contratista, y todos los servicios que le pueda ofrecer, están sujetos a los Términos de uso del contratista.

If you have trees on your property, you're probably aware of their many benefits. They can boost your property's aesthetic appeal, create privacy, and provide shade to keep your home cooler. Trees can also protect your roof from ultraviolet rays and block wind, minimizing related damage.However, if trees aren't maintained, they can cause damage to your roof. Here are the signs to look for, what to do if a tree falls on your roof, and how to prevent tree damage to your roof in the future.How Nearby Trees Can Damage Your RoofYou're likely aware that the worst damage to a roof can occur when an entire tree falls on your home. This can happen during a severe storm or if an older tree is ill or damaged.However, one tree branch can cause plenty of structural damage, too. Even a small branch falling on or rubbing against your roof can scratch or dent its protective layers, especially if it's laden with snow or ice.And branches aren't the only culprits that can damage your roof. Fallen leaves, nuts, and needles from trees can accumulate, blocking your gutters and roof valleys. This creates an environment that absorbs moisture, leading to moss or mold growth—both of which can reduce your roof's lifespan. Ponding water from this debris can cause leaks over time.Overhanging branches can also create too much shade, exacerbating any moisture issues by making it challenging for your roof to dry. Additionally, branches that touch your roof create easy access for squirrels and other animals, potentially leading to intrusions and damaged roofing components.Signs of Roof DamageTo stop any issues from a tree over the roof from worsening, watch out for signs of roof damage. While a professional inspection can help pinpoint problems by taking a closer look at your roof, you can also perform an inspection from the ground.Look for any cracked, broken, scratched, or curled shingles. Also, note any missing shingles, especially after a windstorm. Check for moss, mold, or an accumulation of debris like leaves and needles. All of these issues can lead to leaks or larger problems down the road, such as structural damage.What to Do If a Tree Falls on Your RoofIf a large branch or entire tree has fallen and damaged your roof or siding, prioritize your safety. If you see any live wires, smell gas, or spot major water leaks, call your utility company right away to shut off your service. Evacuate everyone from your home, and call your insurance company. In most cases, the company will send a professional roofer to evaluate the damage.While you're waiting for the expert to arrive, document the damage by taking photos and video of any areas the fallen tree affected. Once the insurance company has approved your claim, hire a professional to remove the tree and repair the damage.While most homeowners insurance policies cover roof repairs from tree damage, your insurance company might deny your claim if it discovers you failed to do preventive maintenance.How to Prevent Tree Damage to Your RoofProactively addressing tree-related challenges can help you minimize potential roof damage, saving you time and money in the long run.Clear DebrisRemove leaves, twigs, needles, and nuts from your roof and gutters. Installing gutter guards can also help prevent debris from clogging them.Trim BranchesTrim any tree branches that are too close to your roof. Avoid having any part of a tree over the roof—there should be at least 6 feet between your roof and the tips of a tree's branches. If you can't safely trim branches yourself, hire a tree expert.Remove Dangerous TreesIf an arborist determines that more than one-quarter of a tree's limbs need pruning, you might have to cut down the tree before it can fall on your roof. Don't forget to check with local authorities regarding bylaws and protected tree species.Plant Trees at a Safe DistanceIf you're planting new trees, remember they'll grow large over time. So, select species appropriate for your property's size, and plant them about 20 to 30 feet away from your home.Prepare for the Next Storm with Expert HelpAs the saying goes, the best defense is a good offense. Before another storm can threaten the health of your home's roof, take proactive measures to prevent as much damage as possible.For more information about preventing tree damage to your roof, check out GAF storm and hurricane roofing resources. To enlist professional help in repairing roof damage or installing a fortified roofing system, reach out to a GAF-certified roofing contractor* in your area.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.

Don't miss another GAF RoofViews post!

Subscribe now