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What’s That Beautiful Green Stuff on my Roof?
February 5, 2009 by David Helm · 3 Comments
In the wet Northwest, we sometimes get things that other parts of the country seldom see. In this case, the beautiful green stuff is moss; and it is not beautiful on a roof. Moss growth on a roof causes several problems and is considered a “conducive condition” for wood destroying organisms. Moss growth can cause roofing nails to lift, hold moisture against the roof and ultimately destroy the shingles. In the early stages, it is easy to deal with. A little zinc powder strewn above the growth during the growing season (moss grows in the winter when it is wet) can kill the moss. If it gets a little farther along it can be mechanically removed. This does not mean pressure washing. Pressure washing dramatically shortens the life of a roof. The photos below show moss at a stage that is almost beyond control. The whole point of this is to control it in the earliest stages.
- Moss growth
- Moss Growth
This roof may be savable, but by the end of this growing season it may be too late!
This is a good time to mention that as an insurance issue you could be refused a policy or forced to remove moss and/or replace the roof if the moss is evident and /orout of control. Sellers, you will get more value for your hme if the First Impression is best, i.e. a nice looking roof.
Several years ago, my step father and I worked on several of his properties. We converted the shingle roofing to metal roofing. That was a tedious task, but extended the longevity. Moss can still build up on metal roofing, it’s just easier to clean!
Good job on installing the metal roof. It’ll last a long time. You’re right about moss growing on the metal and, yes it is easier to clean.