How to Remove Moss from Your Asphalt Roof

Moss on your asphalt shingle roof may give your home a quaint, rustic appeal, but the truth is, it can cause problems for your roofing system over time. The moss can prevent water from properly draining off your roof, leading to unwanted moisture intrusion, decay, and ultimately, roof failure.

Removing moss from your asphalt shingles can be a lot easier and more affordable than you might think. Many homeowners falsely believe that moss removal is a complicated and pricey process, but with the right tools and techniques, you can effectively deal with moss problems without breaking the bank or wasting your valuable time.

Let’s take an in-depth look at why moss is detrimental to your asphalt shingles, learn how to remove it with a step-by-step guide, and explain what not to use when tackling moss growth on your roof.

Why Is Moss Bad for Shingles?

Moss is a type of plant that thrives in moist and shady environments. While it may seem harmless, moss can pose a significant threat to the integrity of your asphalt shingles.

Here are several reasons why moss is bad for asphalt shingles:

Damage to Shingles: Moss can cause serious damage to asphalt shingles. It grows beneath the shingles, gradually lifting them up and compromising their seal. This can lead to water infiltration, causing leaks, and potentially causing structural damage. Over time, the damage can become so severe that the only solution is to replace the entire roof.

Shortened Roof Lifespan: The presence of moss can significantly shorten the lifespan of your roof. The moisture held by the moss can accelerate the wear and tear of the shingles, leading to premature replacement needs. This can be especially problematic in areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall.

Aesthetic Concerns: Some homeowners like the look of moss at first, but it can have a negative impact on the aesthetic appeal of your home. Over time, it can cause discoloration and an overall unkempt appearance. This can potentially lower the value of your property and make it less attractive if you decide to sell your home.

Creates a Slippery Surface: Moss growth on shingles creates a slippery surface, which can pose a safety risk. If you or a professional need to access the roof for maintenance or repairs, the moss can increase the chances of slipping and falling.

Moss can be a serious problem that should not be overlooked. It can cause significant damage to the shingles, shorten the lifespan of your roof, negatively impact the appearance of your home, and create a safety hazard.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Moss from Your Roof

Removing moss from your asphalt shingles is essential to prolonging the life of your roof and preventing costly repairs and can be done with a few simple tools you can pick up at your local hardware store.

Before we get started on the steps to remove moss from asphalt shingles, it is important to emphasize safety. Always wear protective clothing, including gloves and eyewear, and follow safety guidelines when using a ladder.

When you’re ready to remove moss from asphalt shingles, follow these steps:

Start by spraying the mossy areas of the roof with water from the top to the bottom. This will help loosen the moss and prepare it for removal.
Using a gentle scrub brush or soft bristle brush with a long handle, gently scrape or pluck the moss off the shingles. Be sure to work in small sections, starting from the top and working your way down.
Once you have removed the bulk of the moss, it is time to apply a moss remover solution. We recommend using Spray and Forget, which is a concentrated solution that can easily be applied to the remaining moss. Follow the instructions on the bottle to apply the moss remover solution. Be sure to wear gloves and protective eyewear throughout this step.
After applying the solution, allow it to sit for the recommended amount of time. Typically, this will be around 20-30 minutes. PRO TIP: To help prevent moss overgrowth, use Spray and Forget every other Spring. This maintenance-minded step can save you time and money by staying ahead of a problematic moss issue.
Rinse the solution off the roof using a garden hose (and not a pressure washer!).
If any moss remains, you can repeat the process with the moss remover solution. However, for heavier moss growth, it may require several applications to eliminate the problem.

Removing moss from your asphalt shingles can be a time-consuming process, but it is worth the effort to maintain the health of your roof. Always take safety precautions and follow the steps outlined above to eliminate moss from your roof with ease.

Methods to NOT Use to Remove Moss from Your Roof

Perhaps the most common mistake homeowners make when attempting to remove moss from an asphalt shingle roof is turning to a pressure washer. While high-pressure washing may seem like an efficient and effective method for removing moss, it can damage shingles by stripping the granules that protect the roof from the elements. Over time, this can lead to the degradation of the shingles and even reduce the lifespan of the roof.

Another common mistake is using bleach or other harsh chemicals to remove moss. These chemicals may be effective at killing moss, but they can also discolor the roof and cause damage to surrounding foliage and landscaping. In addition, harsh chemicals may pose a threat to pets or other animals that come into contact with them.

Some homeowners may also be tempted to use metal tools to remove moss from their roofs, but this can be a mistake. Metal tools can scrape off the protective granules on shingles, leading to loss of integrity and structural damage. It is important to use tools specifically designed for safe, effective moss removal from shingle roofs.

Finally, it is important to avoid walking on the roof as much as possible when removing moss. While some methods of moss removal may require physical access to the roof, it is important to avoid walking on the shingles as much as possible. Walking on the roof can cause damage to the shingles and pose a safety risk to homeowners.

Roof Repair and Maintenance from Roof Maxx Mechanicsburg

At Roof Maxx Mechanicsburg, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy and long-lasting roof, and we are here to help. We offer free roof assessments and provide professional and reliable minor roof repair and maintenance services that can ensure your roof is in top condition after moss removal. Our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to repair any damage caused by moss growth, such as leaks or broken shingles.

In addition to repairing any damage caused by moss growth, we can also extend the life of your asphalt roof with Roof Maxx. This eco-friendly solution rejuvenates your shingles, making them more flexible and resistant to premature aging and damage. This not only saves you money in the long run but also helps protect the environment.

How to Remove Moss from Your Asphalt Roof