Getting rid of moss on your roof is more important than you might think. Not only are these unsightly growths unsightly, but they can wreak havoc on your home if left unchecked. – reducing energy efficiency, blocking drainage and damaging tiles.
While some cases of algae can be treated on a DIY basis (eg Removing moss from lawns), sometimes it’s best to leave it to the experts – Otherwise, you may do more harm than good.
To learn how to get rid of them, and when you should leave the job to a professional, keep reading. I spoke to two roofing experts to get their advice, and we also found out what can happen if you leave it too long.
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How do I get rid of moss on my roof?
If you’re dealing with small algae on new tiles, DIY removal is possible. According to Alex Morrissey, Managing Director of Best RoofersThe best method in this case is to use a soft-bristled brush on the affected areas.
You can also buy a biocidal spray to kill it at the root and reduce the chances of it coming back (use Treat moss on driveways and boxes). Once you spray the area, the algae will eventually dry out, and the rain will wash it away.
Alex warns that if your roof is more than 15 to 20 years old and has extensive algae growth, you’ll need to call a professional. They will clean your roof, apply preventative treatments and check for underlying problems.
You should also avoid using pressure washers and hard brushes, which can damage your roof and cause “much bigger problems than algae.”
Paul Newsome, Commercial Director Vanguard Waterproofing Systems Ltdwarns, “I would discourage DIY roof access where possible. In UK workplace data, falls from height are the most common cause of fatal injury, and guidance sources summarizing HSE/RIDDOR data also highlight ladders as a major contributor to injuries from height.”
Jared
Moss remover for roofs
Perfect for roofs, solar panels, driveways and patios, this formula removes moss and algae in hours. – Simply spray and go.
Lucan
Aluminum telescopic cleaning brush
This telescopic brush extends up to seven meters and has a 180° adjustable head and an integrated water hose.
Alex Morrissey is Managing Director of Best Roofers Ltd, a trusted roofing specialist based in Manchester known for delivering high-quality commercial and residential roofing solutions across the UK.
Paul Newsome is Commercial Director of UK-based roofing and waterproofing specialist Vanguard Waterproofing Systems Ltd. It helps homeowners and property managers diagnose leaks, plan sustainable renovations, and improve roof performance through better detailing, drainage, and maintenance-oriented decisions.
Is it worth removing moss from the roof?
It can be tempting to turn a blind eye, but algae on your roof can develop into serious problems if left untreated, so it’s always important to remove it.
Alex Morrissey likens moss to a sponge in the way it absorbs and holds rainwater against your tiles. This can cause them to weaken, crack, become porous or lift, leaving your home less protected from heat loss.
“When tiles absorb water over and over again, they weaken. Once you start getting gaps, cracks or displaced tiles, you lose the thermal integrity of the roof. Heat escapes, cold air moves in and your boiler compensates for that,” he explains.
What is the best time of year to remove moss from a roof?
You can remove moss from your roof at any time of the year, but Paul Caruana, founder IPPSays spring or summer is best. Dry weather makes it easier to remove, and is when algae grows most actively.
Paul Caruana is the founder of premier Loughton-based building firm, IPP, and has served the community for over 35 years.
How to prevent moss on your roof
To prevent algae from growing on your roof in the first place, Paul Newsome recommends the following steps:
- Trim back overhanging trees to increase sunlight and airflow
- Keep gutters/valleys clear so that water does not back up and keep the lower areas wet
- Consider zinc or copper strips at ridge level. Rain washes metal ions down the roof which helps prevent algae/lichens over time
- Avoid pressure washing in most cases; It can damage the finish and take water where it shouldn’t
Zinc strip for roof
Made from pure zinc, this roof strip helps prevent stains caused by algae, fungus and mildew and will last for over 20 years.
While algae on your roof may never cross your mind, it’s definitely worth keeping under control. Alex Morrissey concludes, “It’s always cheaper to catch it early than to deal with the consequences later.”
For more expert advice, read about Spring maintenance tasks you should leave to the professionals And Roof leak repair costs.
