How to Stop Moss Growing on Roof Tiles? (UK)

Moss growth on roof tiles is a common problem faced by homeowners in the UK. Moss or lichen growth can lead to a number of issues including reduced property value, increased risk of fire and the potential for leaks. Moss grows quickly and can be very difficult to remove from your roof. Be sure to consult a professional roofing service prior to starting any repairs especially on commercial buildings.

What is Moss?

Moss is an algae that lives on wet surfaces such as roofs, walls or pavements. It is not actually alive but it does have cells that are able to absorb water and nutrients through its leaves. Moss also has roots that help it to grow and spread.

If you see any damage to your roof then contact us immediately. We will assess the situation and advise you what action we think would be best.

Can moss be removed?

Yes! There are many ways to get rid of moss.

Types of Moss

There are many different types of moss that you may find growing on your roof. Some of these include:

Hedgehog moss

This type of moss grows in damp areas such as gardens or roofs. It has small leaves which grow close together and look like spikes. Hedgehog moss is not dangerous but it does cause damage to buildings.

Fern moss

Fern moss is similar to hedgehog moss but with larger leaves. It is more commonly found growing on walls than roofs.

Pineapple moss

Pineapple moss is another type of moss that grows on roofs. It is also known as ‘pine tree moss’ because it resembles pine trees.

Cedar moss

Cedar moss is a type of moss that grows in damp conditions. It has long thin leaves that resemble cedars.

Other Types of Moss

There are some other types of moss that can be found growing on roofs. These include:

Oakmoss

Oakmoss is similar to cedar moss but it has shorter leaves.

Bramble moss

Bramble moss is a type of plant that grows on dry land. It has short spiky leaves and is often associated with hedges.

Dampwood moss

Dampwood moss is a type of fungus that grows on wood.

Causes of Moss Growth on Roofs

It can be caused by a number of factors such as:

Roofing materials that are not properly maintained.
Poor ventilation and condensation.
The presence of algae, which may have been introduced from outside.
Inadequate cleaning of gutters.
A lack of maintenance or regular inspection of the roof.

If you suspect that your roof has become covered with moss, it’s important to get it checked out as soon as possible.

How to Remove Moss from the Roof?

Removing moss from the roof is easy once you know how to go about it. Here are some tips to follow:

1) Make sure that all windows and doors are closed.

2) Use a pressure washer or power washer to clean the moss off the roof.

3) Try using a hosepipe to rinse away the moss.

4) Once the moss has been washed away, use a scrub brush to sweep up the debris.

You can also use moss remover – a chemical that effectively gets rid of the excessive growth of moss. However, it isn’t a natural way of moss removal. It is recommended that you use safety glasses and rubber gloves while using a moss killing solution. You can also use a bleach solution to remove moss.

If your entire roof is covered with moss, it may be better to hire a qualified professional to do the job.

How to Prevent Moss Growth on Your Roof?

To prevent moss from growing on the roof, there are a few things you should do:

Keep your roof well ventilated.
Make sure that your gutters are cleaned regularly.
Check for leaks around the perimeter of your home. If you notice any signs of moisture, fix them right away.
Use anti-condensers if you live in a humid environment.
Ensure that your roof is protected against wind and rain.

FAQs

How do I know if my roof needs moss treatment?

The first thing you should look out for when noticing moss on your roof surface is whether there is any damage caused to the roof itself. If you notice any holes or cracks then this could indicate that moss has already started to grow. You may also notice that the moss looks different to other types of plants. For example, moss will often appear green whereas grass would usually be brown or blue.

What are the benefits of moss treatment?

Moss treatment is an effective way to protect your roof from water damage. This is especially useful if you live in areas where heavy rainfall occurs.

Can moss be removed without damaging the roof?

Yes, moss can be removed without causing any damage to the roof. There are several ways to do so. One method involves using a pressure washer or a power washer.