Moss and algae growth isn’t uncommon on roofs, and it often manifests as green or black streaks that slope down the roof. While these may look merely cosmetic, moss and algae growth can have a much bigger impact on your roof than you know. Here’s a closer look at how moss and algae affect roof performance.
Algae Can Increase Heat Retention and Lead to Moss Growth
Algae is the less damaging of the two, but that doesn’t mean that it causes no damage at all. Algae growth can cause heat absorption and retention in affected areas. This then causes the surface of the roof to heat up and reduces energy efficiency. You might see increased cooling costs in the summer as a result. More than that, unchecked algae growth will lead to moss growth, causing the notable problems mentioned below.
Moss Captures Moisture and Rots the Underlying Material
There are several threats posed by moss growth on roofs. If you have moss on your roof, the moss will capture moisture. This moisture is then sealed in the moss and introduced to the roofing material below. This will start to affect shingles and underlayment at first, eating through these materials. Once the moisture has managed to make its way into your roof, you’ll then be dealing with serious problems, such as wood rot. The longer the moss is allowed to remain undisturbed, the more damage it will do.
Moss Roots Can Begin to Lift Shingles and Impact the Roof’s Structure
As with any organic material, moss will begin to lay down roots on your roof. These roots can begin to make their way under the seams of surrounding shingles. As the moss spreads, more and more shingles will begin to lift up. Then, moisture and other elements can eat away at the underlayment and begin to affect your attic and other structural elements of your home. This is why moss removal is so crucial early on.
Both Algae and Moss Break Down Roofs Over Time
Both algae and moss will break down your roof over time. If your moss or algae isn’t cleaned, you’ll find that your roof is less effective at keeping things out and insulating your home. This will cause interior damage, higher cooling costs, and a wealth of other problems.
Both algae and moss cause more than a cosmetic disturbance. Moss and algae can eat away at underlying materials, trap moisture in the roof, lift surrounding shingles, and more. Taking care of them as soon as you notice their presence will save you money and hassle in the long run. Contact us at Clean425 in Seattle, WA, today for trustworthy roof moss removal services.
