If you have a shady yard or an asphalt roof in Kitchener or Waterloo that faces north, you might notice it looking a little greener than usual in late spring and early summer, particularly if it’s been a wet and humid season. That green stuff is moss, which can grow on roofs, especially asphalt roofs, under the right conditions. While it might look rustic and cozy, it’s a troublesome little plant that can shorten your roof’s lifespan if left unchecked.

How Moss Damages Roofs

Don’t let its tiny and soft appearance fool you; moss can cause big damage to an asphalt roof in Kitchener or Waterloo. What starts as a thin layer of greenery, can grow larger until it pushes in between and underneath shingles. When that happens shingles can lift and water can get under the shingles and may cause rot and water damage to the underlying structure or even lead to leaks inside the home. Severe cases of moss can cause as much damage as ice dams.

Removing Moss Protects Roofs

Fortunately moss can be removed and you may even be able to prevent it from reoccurring. Simply hosing off the moss is the first step. Don’t use a pressure washer as this can damage shingles; a sprayer on the hose is strong enough to remove most moss. Always spray from above and at a downward angle to prevent water from going up under the shingles.

If you need a little more help than water, there are commercial cleaners that you can use. Be sure to follow the directions; a little goes a long way.

For a more permanent solution, you can trim back trees to eliminate shade; sunlight is the best moss prevention. If that’s not an option, talk to a roofer about installing zinc or copper strips along the top ridge line of the roof. These metals raise the pH level of the roof, making it inhospitable to moss.

Contact The Roofman For Help Dealing With Moss On An Asphalt Roof In Kitchener Or Waterloo

If you have moss build-up on your roof and do-it-yourself remedies aren’t working, contact The Roofman for a roof evaluation. Your roof may be damaged to the point that cleaning won’t work or you may need professional advice for dealing with the moss.

Call us at 519-744-3830 to learn more about our roof inspection and repair services and keep your roof in good shape.

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