Moss might look soft and green on your roof, but it can cause a lot of problems if it’s not taken care of. Even though it may seem harmless, moss can damage your roof over time and lead to leaks, rot, and even expensive repairs. Dealing with moss by yourself can prove to be a costly project if it is not done the right way. Calling your local service provider such as Cover All Exteriors to ensure that everything is completed professionally can save you a lot of time and money. It’s important to understand why moss is bad for your roof so you can keep your home safe and in good shape.
A main reason moss is harmful is because it holds water. Moss acts like a sponge, soaking up rain and moisture from the air. When moss grows on your roof, it keeps the surface wet for a long time. That constant moisture can cause the roof materials like shingles and wood underneath to break down. Over time, this can lead to rot, mold, and water damage. A dry roof can last a long time, but a wet roof wears out much faster. Moss also gets in between the shingles and pushes them apart. As moss grows and produces roots, it can lift the edges of the shingles, creating small gaps where water can slip through. Shingles are meant to keep your roof sealed and dry. When they get moved or broken, they can’t do their job properly. This makes it easy for water to get under the shingles and into the layers below. In cold weather, things get even worse. Water in the moss can freeze and expand, cracking the shingles and making the damage worse. After spending thousands of dollars upgrading your roof, the last thing you want to happen is for the shingles to get damaged by a preventable issue.
When moss is left to grow for too long, it can shorten the lifespan of your roof. A roof that is well taken care of can last 20+ years, depending on the materials. But with moss growing on it, the roof might only last half that time. Fixing or replacing a roof is expensive, so letting moss grow freely can cost you a lot in the long run. Having your roof inspected by a professional can save you thousands in repairs if you are able to be proactive. A moss covered roof will also damage the curb appeal of your property.
Moss damage doesn’t stop at the roof. Once water starts to leak through, it can enter your home. You might not notice it right away, but after a while it can leave stains on the ceiling or walls. It can also cause mold to grow inside, which can be harmful to your health especially for those with possible breathing issues or allergies. All of this adds up to big repair bills and possibly dangerous living conditions. Another problem with moss is the weight it adds to your roof. Moss soaks up water and gets heavy. If there’s a thick layer of moss, especially with leaves and sticks trapped in it, that extra weight can put a lot of stress on your roof. It can even cause parts of the roof to sag or weaken over time. Moss can also block gutters and drains, stopping rainwater from flowing off the roof like it should. That can lead to water building up and causing even more damage.
Although moss may seem small and harmless, it can cause big problems for your roof and your home. It holds moisture, breaks your shingles, adds weight, and can lead to leaks and mold inside the house. Taking care of moss early by cleaning it off and keeping it from growing back can save you money and help your roof last much longer. Luckily for those that are not well versed in roof maintenance and upkeep, Cover All Exteriors is here to help. If you need assistance with a roofing or siding problem, give us a call today and schedule a free estimate.