Removing moss from the roof

Moss removal : essential for preserving your roof

Before working on any roof, basic safety rules must be followed. Cleaning the roof and removing moss requires great care, not just with the products used, but also with regard to moving around on the roof.  A special roof ladder should be used and non-slip shoes should be worn, along with a harness with a fall-arrest system. Avoid cleaning the roof and removing moss in wet weather or strong winds. If using toxic products, remember to wear a mask. 

First of all, clean your gutters to remove any residue that could be blocking them and then start removing the moss. You can do this manually. This method is very simple; simply rub the moss and vegetation on the roof with a stiff brush to dislodge it. Always avoid bleach or chlorine as they can cause the roofing materials to fade and are definitely not recommended if you have a terracotta or slate roof. 

Likewise, high-pressure cleaners should be avoided. High-pressure water jets can cause serious damage to these types of roofs because they cause irreversible cracks. 

Once all the moss is removed, rinse the roof using a low-pressure hose to remove the debris.  

As you can see, removing moss from the roof is not complicated if the roof is accessible and not too steep. If this is not the case, don't put yourself at risk. Instead, employ professionals who have the right experience and equipment to reach the roof safely. 

The cost of maintaining a roof

Terreal strongly recommends using a roofing professional for these maintenance and cleaning operations. A roofing professional is a local expert with the skills required to clean a roof safely. They have experience and knowledge of the local environment, allowing them to pinpoint any problems and give you maintenance advice. 

You are not obliged to use a professional unless your roof is difficult to access.  

Any work on the roof involves working at height and therefore represents a risk in terms of safety. Working safely and with the appropriate equipment is essential. In order to avoid any risk of falling, Terreal again recommends using a roofing professional, who will be able to assess the situation and select the appropriate equipment to work safely. 

If you maintain your roof yourself, you should allow an average of one to two days to complete this. The main expense when maintaining a roof is the products to be applied after cleaning. Depending on where you live, you will need either a fungicide, anti-moss or algicide solution. 

The ideal frequency for cleaning your roof

Start by regularly inspecting your roof. If it looks stained or you can see lots of moss, then it needs to be cleaned. It is better to clean your roof regularly for a number of reasons. 

Firstly, cleaning will seem like less of a chore and most importantly, you'll prevent moss and fungi from spreading so quickly. When it spreads, not only does it damage your roof, but it can also result in more extensive work being required, such as partial or total repair. 

The roof can be cleaned twice a year. Spring and autumn are the best times to do this. Very hot days and rainy days should be avoided. 

Once winter is over, it's worth checking for frost damage such as cracks. Inspect the joins and remove any birds' nests. 

In autumn, check for dead leaves and anything such as twigs, moss and fungi that could be up there. 

If you live in a house surrounded by trees, routine maintenance may be required more than twice a year. 

A regularly cleaned roof is a well-maintained, stronger roof that retains all its original properties and lasts for longer.