Is Moss Damaging To Roofs

A small amount of moss is harmless but if it s left untreated it can cause significant damage and degrade the structural integrity of your roof.

Is moss damaging to roofs.

Moss is different from algae lichen or mold fungi which are typically easier to clean and less damaging to a roof. A lot of care should be taken when removing moss because cleaning a roof could prove just as damaging to it than leaving the moss on it. You should also consider that moss retains a great deal of moisture which may have a damaging effect to the roofs structure. While moss is the most common form of growth on your roof homeowners should also be aware of the spread of algae and lichen as well as the buildup of organic matter such as fallen leaves twigs branches and nuts which will support the buildup of moss.

In wet climates moss commonly grows into a mat a few inches thick. Moss absorbs and retains water. Once moss is removed there are less blockages and your gutters work more efficiently. As i mentioned before moss typically grows in the cracks between each shingle.

Furthermore moss likes to grow on cement and can agitate the bond between ridge apex tiles and your roof. Left unattended moss can spread and cause all kinds of damage. If you are worried about this it may just be best to go ahead and remove the moss. Moss alone cannot damage the tiles.

Roof treatment chemicals for algae lichens or moss may risk also damaging the shingles may corrode or discolor copper gutters or downspouts and if not rinsed off of flowers or shrubs or lawns it may damage these plants. However the greatest benefit of moss removal is on the gutters. Moss readily grows on roof shingles especially in the spaces between shingles where the spores collect. Moss itself is harmless.