Over time, a layer of green moss can accumulate on, between, and underneath your roof shingles, regardless of the type of Australian house you own. Although this image of a mossy-roofed cottage may look fairy-tale like, the extensive damage it can cause to your roof is completely the opposite.
Why Should You Remove Moss & Algae From Your Roof
Moss starts as a thin layer of green covering on the roof. But, as it grows, it proceeds to lift and warp the roof shingles, allowing water to seep underneath. This moisture eventually causes wood rot and leaks, leading to more serious problems that would become evident in the interior of your home after a while.
Aside from moss, there is another problem that you should worry about: algae.
Often mistaken as mould or mildew, the black discolouration and streaks visible on many roofs in Australia are algae—organisms that thrive in humid conditions. They usually start as small spots, so by the time you see them in streaks, the algae have likely been present for long periods.
Algae can dry out the granules on asphalt shingles that provide the roofing system with UV, fire, and water resistance. As if they are not damaging enough, algae can also cause lichens to grow—an organism that grows from algae—which can be unsightly, too.
All these factors, plus the health risks moss and algae pose, illustrate why you should remove them from your roof.
How to Remove & Prevent Moss & Algae Growth
Moss and algae spores are airborne. They can be carried by wind or animals and spread throughout your neighbourhood. While it’s the case, keeping your roof clean can help in discouraging moss and algae growth.
Remove any debris like leaves and twigs on the roof. These items attract moisture and provide moss and algae with a conducive environment for growth. Additionally, make sure to trim branches away from the roof. These should allow the sunlight to prevent moss and algae from growing.
Keep the gutters clean and free of any obstructions at all times to promote proper drainage as well and lastly, don’t allow gutters from an upper roof to drain directly on a lower roof. Extend the downspout where necessary.
It’s recommended that you work with a reputable and professional roof repair specialists Sydney to do the job for you. An added benefit to hiring a professional is that they can also give you advice on how to prevent any possible damage from moss and algae accumulation and if there’s any, provide repair services and warranties.
Some other preventative measures they can offer you is the addition of zinc or copper strips or installation of algae-resistant asphalt shingles. However, these are only recommended when it’s time to replace your roof. Otherwise, adding zinc or copper sheet metals to your existing roof using exposed nails can cause leaks over time. They can also break the sealant bond, which may result in wind damage over time.
Algae and moss growth on roofs are an unsightly nuisance—at a minimum. If left unchecked, they can eventually lead to roof damage which is more costly to repair. Taking these moss and algae-removal steps mean you’ll be able to stay off the roof for seasons, if not years, to come.
How much will it cost you to save your roof from moss and algae, you ask?
While there’s no ballpark figure as to how much a professional service will cost you, you can rest assured that it’s a small fraction of having your roofing system replaced. So, whether you have a problem with moss or just want to check the state of your roof, working with a reliable roofing specialist in Sydney will save you a great sum of money when you address it immediately.
Contact your local roofing specialist today!
