Roofing & Siding Services in Olympia, Wa.
Some of the reasons why moss grows on roofs in Washington are a moist climate, the roofing materials used, and debris from trees. A mossy roof can cause problems including lowering your home’s value, causing the roof to rot from excess moisture, causing damage to roof shingles, and blocking gutters. Have a roof expert clean your roof and remove the moss.
Moss growing on roofs is a common sight in Washington. Unfortunately, environmental conditions in our area are ideal for moss to grow. Moss can cause roof damage over time, so homeowners should get it removed when they notice it. Equity Roofing and Exteriors can remove moss, and repair roof issues that moss may have caused. Knowing how to prevent moss on your roof can save you trouble later.
Why Does Moss Grow on Roofs in Washington State?
- Climate
Washington has a wet, humid climate. We get frequent rainfall throughout the year, which encourages plant growth. Our state also has mild temperatures, which can keep plants from dying of cold or heat. These factors cause roofs to stay damp longer, instead of drying. Moss can easily take root, using moisture to survive. Washington’s climate is perfect for moss to thrive.
- Roof Materials
Some types of roofing materials are more susceptible to moss growth than others. Asphalt, wood, and concrete roofs stay moist longer than metal roofs. This is because they are porous materials, so they trap moisture. These materials also provide more grip for moss to attach to, whereas metal roofs are smooth and slick. Additionally, some metal, such as copper and zinc, have moss-resistant properties. When choosing materials for your new roof, take into account how the material may affect moss growth.
- Trees in Your Yard
A heavy tree cover shades your roof, which can prevent moisture from drying and can increase moss growth. Roofs can also collect organic material such as leaves and pine needles. This debris can trap moisture against the roof surface, creating a breeding ground for moss. There are many trees in the Olympia area, and they are an overlooked factor in moss growing on roofs.
What Harm Does Moss on Roofs Cause in Washington State?
- Excess Moisture and Rot
Moss can trap moisture at weak points of the roof. This can cause water to saturate the roof, leading to structural damage and rot over time. Moisture damage is no joke. If it gets bad enough, it could cause leaking, and damage the structural integrity of your roof deck. Eventually, you may have to replace your entire roof. It’s important to check that moss is not causing your roof to rot over your head.
- Drainage and Gutter Problems
As moss breaks down, pieces of it can come loose. When it rains, moss debris can wash down into gutters and block them. This can prevent rainwater from flowing as it should. When runoff has nowhere to go, it can overflow and drop down the siding of the home. Regardless if the cause is moss or something else, drainage problems need to be fixed as soon as they’re discovered.
- Roof Shingle Damage
Moss retains moisture and keeps shingles from drying out. This can make the shingles not last as long as they’re supposed to, causing them to lift, curl, and deteriorate. As moss builds up, it weakens shingles. If you leave moss on your roof for a long time, it’s possible that you’ll need to replace your roof shingles.
- Lowers Property Value
Moss is a sign of a poorly maintained roof, and does not look appealing. When a home has a mossy roof, it hurts its curb appeal. If you are planning on selling your house anytime soon, removing moss from your roof and getting it repaired should be a top priority. First impressions are important in today’s competitive housing market. Removing moss from your roof can help you sell your house for more.
FAQ's
What does moss look like when it first starts growing?
Before moss gets thick and reaches its mature stage, it may appear as a thin film on the roof. If you notice that your roof is starting to look green, fix the problem before the moss gets worse.
Is moss on my roof just an aesthetic problem?
Although a mossy roof can reduce curb appeal and make a house look dilapidated, that’s not the only issue. Moss can put strain on the roof and cause damage over time.
Can I remove the moss from my roof myself?
It’s recommended that you leave moss removal to the professionals so that you can avoid damaging your roof shingles. Pressure washing and scraping can remove granules from shingles and force water into your roof where it doesn’t belong.
How can I prevent moss from growing on my roof in the first place?
Regularly inspect your roof for signs of moss so that you can catch the problem early on, remove debris from the roof, schedule roof and gutter cleaning services, and keep tree branches away from the roof.
Can’t I just leave the moss there?
This is not recommended. Moss isn’t just an aesthetic concern; it can lead to serious roof damage and should be removed.
