Remove Moss and Algae from Roof
Why It Matters
Moss grows under shingle edges, lifting them and creating entry points for water. Left unchecked, it shortens roof life by years.
Quick Guide
- 1
Gather your tools and materials
You'll need: Pump sprayer, Soft-bristle brush. Materials required: Moss killer solution, Zinc or copper strip.
- 2
Perform the remove moss and algae from roof
Apply moss killer or zinc/copper treatment to prevent and remove moss and algae growth on shingles. Safety note: Use proper fall protection.
- 3
Verify and clean up
Check that the work was completed correctly and clean up your workspace. If steep roofs or extensive moss coverage, consider calling a professional.
Tools & Materials
Tools
- Pump sprayer
- Soft-bristle brush
Materials
- Moss killer solution
- Zinc or copper strip
Community Tips
Apply moss killer solution on overcast days or early morning when the roof is damp but not wet, as the solution requires contact time to penetrate moss spores; products like Wet & Forget Roof Cleaner ($25-35) work over 2-3 months without pressure washing, reducing damage to roof shingles compared to aggressive scrubbing methods.
Never use a pressure washer above 1,500 PSI on asphalt shingles, as high-pressure streams strip the protective granule coating and create leak-prone bare spots that accelerate deterioration by 5-10 years.
Installing copper or zinc strips along the roof ridge (16-20 feet of Frost King Copper Roof Strips at $30-45) provides 15-20 years of continuous moss prevention as the metal oxidizes and releases compounds toxic to algae and moss growth, eliminating the need for repeat chemical treatments. ---