Moss Damage

Roof Moss Prevention and Damage Repair in Seattle

Moss is ubiquitous in Seattle and seemingly as commonplace as the asphalt shingles underneath them. The combination of frequent rain, cool climate, overcast skies and ample shade provided by lush greenery means that moss can grow year-round, making it a frequent sight in Seattle neighborhoods. The truth is that moss can be incredibly harmful to your roof, even if it’s not immediately obvious. If left untreated, moss can lead to costly damages, necessitating repairs or even a full roof replacement.

 

Even if it’s not actively hurting your home, moss can damage your home’s curb appeal. Moss can compromise a roof and shorten its lifespan, even one that’s not all that old, which can make moss a serious concern if you’re thinking of selling. You may discover that buyers want a discount on your asking price based on roof moss removal and repair or roof replacement costs.

 

It’s best to have moss professionally removed and have your roof treated if you begin to notice its growth, or better yet, prevent it from growing at all, if possible.

How to Identify Moss Damage on Your Roof

 

  • Lifting Shingles: Moss can grow under shingles, lifting them up and creating openings for leaks and water damage inside your home.


  • Granule Loss: Asphalt shingles are coated with granules that protect against the elements. Moss can strip these granules away, creating noticeable bald spots that can detract from your home’s curb appeal.


  • Rot and Decay: Moss is a sponge in Seattle's rainy climate. It retains moisture and holds it against your roof, leading to shingle damage and even potentially wood rot, weakening the roof's overall structure.


  • Gutter Blockages: Moss growth can start small but quickly become widespread, infiltrating the fringe of your roof like your gutters and creating blockages that can cause water overflow, resulting in damage to your home's exterior or foundation.


  • Visible Water Stains: If the damage isn’t obvious on your home’s exterior, it may be in your interior. Water stains on your ceilings or walls can be a sign that moss has caused leaks in your roof.

What Will Moss Do to My Roof?

Moss might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can have severe consequences for the longevity and health of your roof. A moss-covered roof is heavier, which can put additional strain on the roof's structure.

 

Over time, this added weight can lead to sagging or even collapse in extreme cases. Even if the worst-case scenario doesn’t happen, moss can significantly shorten your roof’s lifespan, increasing your risk of early replacement, which no homeowner wants.

 

Roof replacement is notoriously expensive, which is why the team at Chet’s Roofing & Construction only recommends it if there’s no other solution to your roofing issue.

 

Moss is especially prevalent in neighborhoods with older trees that cast shade on roofs and on homes with north-facing roofs that receive less sunlight. The best way to lower your risk of moss growth is to trim overhanging tree branches that might be increasing your roof’s moisture exposure. Ensure your roof is properly ventilated and regularly clean your roof of debris.

 

When you do replace your roof, you should make a point of asking your roofer about materials that are naturally resistant to moss growth. Choosing the right roofing material can be especially crucial in preventing moss growth and minimizing potential damage, saving homeowners a lot of stress and grief in the future.

Roofing Materials Most Resistant to Moss

Metal Roofing

Moss roots itself in the cracks and grooves of roofing material. Metal’s smooth surface makes it difficult for moss to grow roots, making it naturally resistant. There are additional coatings which can further reduce the risk of moss growth.


Asphalt Shingles with Algae-Resistant Coating

While asphalt shingles can be highly susceptible to moss growth, using an algae-resistant coating can help bolster your roof’s defense against moss.


Clay and Concrete Tiles

Clay and concrete tiles are dense and less porous than asphalt shingles, making it harder for moss to latch onto the surface.


Synthetic Roofing Materials

PVC roofing has a smooth, non-porous surface similar to metal that makes it difficult for moss to take root. This smooth texture reduces the likelihood of moss growth, as there are fewer crevices for moisture to collect.

 

That said, flat PVC commercial roofs can have attributes that make moss growth more likely, such as the gathering of dirt and debris and the slow drainage of water pooling. Routine maintenance can help keep their risk low.

Hire Local Puget Sound Roofers Who Offer Personalized Repair Solutions That Put Your Needs and Budget First

At Chet’s Roofing & Construction, we provide thorough roof maintenance, repair and replacement services to lower Seattle homeowners' risk of moss growth and provide fast-acting solutions in the event of roof damage so you can have your home back to normal as soon as possible.

 

Reach us at (877) 611-1514 and receive a repair estimate today.