You notice a tint of bluish-green on your roof...but your roof is red, is something growing on your roof? And if so, can it damage it? In this post, we take a closer look at moss and algae and the impacts they could potentially have on your roof. Some of the most seemingly innocent, yet dangerous things that could be on your roof right now include moss, algae, and debris such as leaves. Moss and leaves can both trap moisture beneath them, which means that roof holding them will stay damp for long periods of time. This dampness will eventually begin to break down into your roof, causing it to deteriorate at a much faster rate. In time, this moisture will begin to seep into your roof causing rot, mould, or mildew in your ceilings and other parts of your home.

Moss

In places with humid and rainy weather conditions (just like us in Q ueensland) moss begins to grow on the rooftops. Most people tend to ignore moss as just an aesthetic problem that reduces the pretty facade of our homes. While moss itself doesn’t not damage the roof materials, if left unattended, moss will begin to provide an environment that holds in moisture. When the moisture is secured in a concentrated area of the roof surface over a prolonged period, damages requiring expensive repairs can result. Moss growing on any roof surface will be more severe on roof sections that are shaded and exposed to periodically damp and cool weather conditions.

Algae

Just like moss, algae is attracted to warm, humid areas. Though it is not as harmful as moss, it can still lead to a number of problems and can bring down your home’s appearance and value if you don’t take steps to remove and prevent its return. The presence or absence of much sunlight on a roof surface is often a determining factor in the amount.

Prevention

Periodic application of a chemical treatment can often effectively prevent the return of moss and algae, but there are other eco-friendly options to consider:

• Give the roof surface more sunlight. Trim back trees whose branches overshadow the roof surface. Keep the roof clean of organic debris like leaves which may collect in valleys or at other roof locations.
• Clean your roof with water. We use specialised equipment to deliver high-pressure water blasts to remove excess dirt, grime, moss, algae and other contaminants on your roof.
• If re-roofing is necessary, make sure to install roofing that has anti-algae and anti-moss features whether in the materials used or in its coating.

Cleaning, treatment and maintenance should only be performed on roofs that are not too steep to be safely walked on, unless you're a professional with the right equipment.