Sometimes it seems like Mother Nature is out to get you and specifically your roof. One roof element that can me a major headache to homeowners is the formation of moss, algae and other growth on the roof. These types of organic growth are not only an eyesore but can lead to further roofing problems. Let’s examine roofs susceptible to growth and what you can do to help prevent it.
What Types of Roof are Prone to Algae and Moss?
Algae and moss need nutrients to thrive and these nutrients can actually be found on some roofing materials, especially wood shakes and asphalt shingles that have organic matter in them. Non organic materials like slate, concrete and asphalt shingles with no organic materials present are much less likely to present the optimal growing conditions for organisms like moss and algae. The most likely roofing material to harbor moss and algae will be wood shakes and shingles, they are constructed of wood after all.
What’s The Big Deal About Moss and Algae on my Roof?
Moss and algae seem pretty harmless and home homeowners even like the natural appeal they add to the roofing system but the problem comes with accompanying moisture. Moss will hold onto moisture directly on top of the roofing material, this moisture is more likely to cause mold, mildew, rot and otherwise lessen or compromise the lifetime of your roofing material.
How Do I Prevent Moss or Algae?
You can clean your roof off as the algae comes with gentle power washing and other cleaning methods but you will be fighting a constant battle, it’s best to prevent the growth in the first place. Your first choice is to coat your roof in a preventative solution, these can be effective but take reapplication and may not prove too effective.
One of the most effective ways to prevent growth is to install zinc strips along portions of the roof especially on the ridge. When water contacts these strips it will carry trace amounts of zinc across the entire service of the roof. These growths do not like zinc and it will be much more difficult for them to grow.
Another quick solution is reduce shade and damp portions of your roof by trimming any tree branches or other shade throwing objects. This will help dry out the roof and growths can’t form without any moisture.
If you are having trouble with growth on your roof simply talk to a roofing consultant to find out the best solutions to prevent moss and algae from growing on your roof.
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