Why does moss love growing on the roof?

The UK is notorious for having wet, miserable weather. It can put a lot of pressure on properties, especially their roofs. One thing you can see is moss growing on some of them. It can become a huge problem for some people. Luckily, we can help by offering the best roof cleaning Reading home owners can ask for. Our team are experts and always offer excellent results.

An unwanted growth

Not many people would look at their roof and be happy to see moss growing. It can ruin the colour of the surface and make the whole property look uncared for. More importantly than that though, it can damage the roof tiles, create leaks, block gutters, and even fall to the ground and make drives, patios, and paths look bad.

Why is it growing?

You can look around your street and will probably only see moss growing on a few of the properties. It prefers dark, damp spots. As a result it is most common on the shady side of roofs and in the shadows of chimneys. Once it gets established in these locations, it can grow and spread all across the roof. Rain can also dislodge some so you can see it moving down the surface.

Moss also likes roofing because of the materials themselves. It feeds on the minerals in tiles, shingles, and slate. The rough surfaces also mean it can latch on and then start spreading.

Some properties have a higher risk of moss growth than others. There is a bigger chance of it happening if there are tall trees nearby or an abundance of greenery. This can make it easier for it to get on to the roof. You also have a higher risk if there are lots of birds nearby. They can drop sticks and nesting materials on the roof, starting moss growth.

Properties with copper or zinc flashings tend to have a lower risk of moss. This is because the metals will develop oxides and they will be spread across the surface when it rains. The oxides are natural herbicides so any traces of moss will die.

Arrange roof cleaning in Reading

If you do have moss growing on the roof it is better to deal with it as soon as possible. This can prevent it from spreading across the surface and falling offer the roof into gutters or on to the ground. Tackling it sooner also makes it easier to deal with because it won’t have as long to establish itself.

Berkshire Roof Clean is a team you can rely on to tackle the problem for you. Our services are safe and effective. We clean by hand to make sure we get rid of all traces and don’t damage the roof materials. In addition, we finish with a biocide to protect the surface for longer.

If you would like to book roof cleaning Reading has no team with a better reputation than us. We work hard to satisfy every single customer. Many of them are even pleasantly surprised when they see the original colour of their roofing.

So, contact us today to get a quote or advice about dealing with moss.