Roof Moss Removal in Bellevue WA

There are many factors that determine how moss is removed from the roof. It depends on the kind of roof, the extent of moss growth, and the requested service level. In all roof cleaning projects, great care must be taken to preserve the integrity of the roofing materials, as well as taking into consideration the manufacturer’s warranty. That said, in most cases our moss removal process includes the following: 

1. Removal (by hand) of large objects, such as branches and other debris, from the roof.
2. Light brushing where moss is visible. Different species of moss can be very difficult (if not impossible) to remove with abrasion. However, this is where the advantage of soft washing is realized.
3. The next step includes blowing loose debris and moss off the surface of the roof, and cleaning the gutters. 
4. Next,we apply a proprietary blend of biodegradable cleaning agents to the roof surface. Surfactants allow the solution to dwell and entirely soak into the moss and down to the root, beginning the process of emulsification 
5. We then rinse the roof and then apply the antimicrobial sealant, guaranteeing a moss-and algae-free roof for up to three years. 
6. Lastly, we rinse out the gutters and clean the perimeter of the home.

The best time of year for moss removal from roofs is typically during the early winter or summer. Early winter is ideal because it precedes the growth phase of moss, making it easier to remove. Summer is also favorable because moss enters a dormant state due to the dry conditions, which simplifies the removal process. Dry weather during these times helps ensure that the moss is less robust and easier to detach from the roof surfaces. That being said, our methods are efficient and applicable year-round.

While a moss-covered roof might superficially resemble a “green roof” or living roof, which is designed to support plant life, there are significant differences:

1. Intention and Design: Green roofs are intentionally installed with a system that supports plant growth, including proper drainage and root barriers, which protect the building structure. Moss on roofs, however, grows unintentionally and without the necessary safeguards to prevent damage to the roofing materials.
2. Maintenance and Sustainability: Green roofs are maintained with the health of the plants and roof in mind, ensuring longevity and sustainability. Moss growth, on the other hand, is typically not managed and can lead to the degradation of roofing materials as it retains moisture and can cause rot.
3. Functional Benefits: Properly designed green roofs can provide benefits such as insulation, reduction in urban heat island effect, and stormwater management. Moss, however, primarily retains moisture, leading to potential structural issues without offering the environmental benefits of a green roof.

In short, a moss-covered roof does not provide the engineered benefits of a green roof and can lead to significant roofing problems.

Moss on roofs can cause several problems, including:

1. Moisture Damage: Moss retains moisture against the roofing material, which can lead to rot and deterioration of both the roof shingles and the underlying structure.
2. Blocked Gutters: Moss can grow into gutters and downspouts, blocking water flow and causing water to back up, potentially leading to leaks and water damage to the structure and foundation of the house.
3. Reduced Lifespan of Roofing Materials: The constant dampness caused by moss can shorten the lifespan of roofing materials by causing them to break down faster than they normally would.
4. Aesthetic Issues: Moss can detract from the appearance of a home, making it look unkempt and potentially lowering property value, especially if the moss is widespread.
5. Increased Weight: Heavy growth of moss adds weight to the roof, which can be problematic, especially for older structures that may not be able to support the extra weight.
6. Insulation Problems: Moss can impact the insulation properties of a roof, affecting the home’s internal temperature and potentially leading to increased heating and cooling costs.

Removing moss is crucial to prevent these issues and maintain the integrity and appearance of the roof.