Why Do I Have Moss Growing On My Roof

Moss thrives in cool damp environments.

Why do i have moss growing on my roof.

Moss growing on a roof may or may not be considered attractive or quaint but there is no doubt that extensive moss on a roof can seriously damage the roof by growing under and raising or. The moss will absorb the damp environment s moisture and establish roots on the roof. If there are large trees near the home that shade parts of the roof moss can grow in abundance as there is a lack of direct sunlight. Moss is a non vascular plant that absorbs water through its leaves instead of roots.

Because moss or lichens growing on a roof surface will hold moisture on the roof longer than other areas these growths can reduce the life of the roof covering. Moss algae and lichen grow on your roof through a combination of two things. Like leaves in your gutters moss is only a problem if you allow it to grow unchecked. The roots then can lift up the shingles on the roof.

Moss will commonly thrive in any type of environment that is shaded and damp. If you notice moss in small sections you should remove it. Stop a moss problem from returning by installing strips of zinc or copper coated sheet metal just below the top ridge on both sides of the roof. What to do if you see moss.

This causes the roof to start degrading. The presence of moss doesn t always mean that your roof has sustained damage especially if you catch it early. If you have moss on your roof it s likely because your roof is shaded by trees or other structures allowing moisture to linger and moss to grow. Moss is a simple plant that lacks conventional roots stems and leaves and grows vertically.

Why does moss grow on roof. The more water and the more debris the greater the chance of moss growth. Moisture and organic debris. That is to say moss often grows in damp and shady conditions where there is almost no access to sunlight and the place is camouflaged under overhanging shadowy trees.

Particularly where the roofing materials are asphalt shingles or wood shingles holding water on the roof surface by any means leaves debris moss or lichens speeds up wear on these shingles. Copper is more toxic to moss and algae but zinc.