Yes, moss is bad for gutters. Moss can retain moisture, which can lead to corrosion or damage to the gutters, especially if they are made of metal.
Additionally, as the moss grows and expands, it can block the flow of water. Water blockage can cause gutters to overflow and potentially damage the property’s foundations or walls.
A reputable gutter cleaning specialist will ensure home gutters are free from obstructions such as moss to prevent unnecessary repairs in the future.
For this post, we’ll expand more about moss and why you should remove them from your roofing and gutters.
What Causes Moss to Grow on the Roof?
Moss grows on roofs due to a combination of factors:
- Moisture: Moss thrives in damp and shaded conditions. Roofs are often moist in areas with frequent rain, high humidity, or dew, creating an ideal environment for moss to grow.
- Shade: Roofs that are shaded for most of the day, whether by trees, other buildings, or even the orientation of the house, can promote moss growth. This is because the shade keeps the roof cooler and prevents it from drying out quickly after rain or dew.
- Organic Debris: Leaves, twigs, and other organic materials that accumulate on roofs can decompose, creating a layer of organic material where moss can root and grow.
Have you ever asked the question, “Can heavy rain damage gutters?” Read our blog to find out the answer and what you can do about it.
Why Should I Remove Moss From Roofing and Gutters?
The following are the main reasons why you should remove moss from your roofing and gutters:
Structural Integrity
Moss retains moisture against the surface of the roof and gutters. Over time, this constant dampness can lead to the deterioration of roofing materials, especially if they’re made of wood or asphalt shingles. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause these materials to rot or degrade, reducing their lifespan and potentially leading to leaks or structural damage.
Proper Water Flow
When moss grows in gutters, it can obstruct the water flow, causing it to overflow. This can lead to water damage along the fascia, soffit, or even the home’s foundation. Proper drainage is vital to protecting the structural integrity of a home, and moss blockages can compromise this.
Aesthetic Appeal
While some homeowners might appreciate the rustic look moss brings, it’s an unwelcome and unsightly blemish for many. Moss can make a home appear neglected and can detract from its overall curb appeal. Removing moss is crucial for homeowners considering selling their property or simply wanting to maintain a clean and attractive exterior.
How Do Professionals Remove Moss From Roofs?
Professionals remove moss from roofs by typically using a combination of specialised tools and solutions. Initially, they might gently brush or scrape off the bulk of the moss to reduce the volume. This is often done with soft brushes to avoid damaging the roofing material.
Once the bulk of the moss is removed, they apply a moss-killing solution, which could be a commercially available product or a mixture of bleach and water.