How To: Roof Cleaning for Algae and Moss

Do you have moss or algae growing on the roof of your home?

If you answered “yes” to this question, you may be wondering what causes algae or moss growth, what you can do to avoid it and the roof cleaning process.

Algae and moss can grow on your roof because it could be providing a good environment for it. That’s because conditions like shade, moisture, and humidity are a perfect breeding ground for algae and moss.

Sure, cutting back trees hanging over your roof can eliminate some shade, but what is an effective way for you to clean up algae and moss on your roof that is already growing there?

Read on to learn how to complete roof cleaning for algae and moss.

Use Homemade Mixture For Roof Cleaning

You can use a homemade mixture of cleaning solution to clean off algae and moss.

A mixture of half water and half bleach can help you wash away algae and moss effectively. The bleach will be strong enough to kill it off but weak enough not to damage your roof and shingles.

If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area, it’s a mixture that can be put to good use. That’s because the foggy, mild weather conditions in the area can be a popular breeding ground for algae spores to grow.

But if you are applying this solution to algae and moss, you need to be careful with the pressure level settings. If you blast the solution onto your roof with too much force, you risk damaging it.

If you are removing moss, you should allow your mixture to soak on the moss for 15 to 20 minutes. After that time, scrub away the moss with a brush. This helps you be sure you are removing any and all moss residue.

After you are finished cleaning off moss (or algae), hose off your roof with water only. This way you won’t have any leftover bleach traces soaking on top of your roof.

Add Copper To Help Prevent Algae Growth

Copper can be an effective way for you to prevent the growth of algae on your roof.

This is because the chemical properties of copper are toxic to algae. If you decide to use copper as a way to curb algae growth, you should carefully apply strips of it to your roof.

But where should you place these copper strips?

It’s best to apply them along the side of your roof, just below the roof vent or chimney. That way, when it rains, the water that washes down your roof contains traces of copper.

Remember to use care when you clean your roof, as algae can be slippery and are dangerous to walk on.

Hire A Pro

Removing algae and moss from your roof is one aspect of maintaining your home in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Have you considered hiring trained professionals to handle this or other roof maintenance at your home?

At Central Bay Roofing, our team offers a wide range of residential and commercial roof services — from roof cleaning to repair and other maintenance. Contact us to receive a free estimate today.