Did you know that moss grows on every continent? Rain or shine, humid climates or even dry deserts, this type of plant belonging to the Bryophyta family can thrive in just about any environment, including your roof. Many homeowners will be able to see signs of moss growing on their roof at one point or another, as this is a common issue that many different roofing types are susceptible to experiencing.
KVN Construction is a trusted roofing company in Portland that has been helping business and homeowners alike maintain healthy and high-functioning roofing systems since we first opened our doors back in 2001. We're here to tell you what it means when you notice moss growing on your roof, and why it's important to schedule a roof inspection sooner rather than later.
Types of Moss in the Portland Area
There are many species of moss, but not all can grow in the Mediterranean climate of the Pacific Northwest. For those living in Portland, the three most common types of moss you may find on top of your home are:
- Roly Poly Moss: Known for its bright green and oftentimes glowing appearance, this type of moss is known for growing underneath shingles and dislodging them over time.
- Spindly Moss: Spindly moss will attach itself to your shingles and slowly begin disintegrating them. This type of moss usually spreads from overhanging trees, like maple or birch trees.
- Furry Moss: This fuzzy type of moss often can be seen with leaves growing out of it, and can only grow on rotted wood. If you notice this variety on your roof, you may also be dealing with rot!
Can Moss Damage My Roof Over Time?
If you get on top of removing moss straight away, there's a good chance your roof will still be intact. However, moss can significantly damage a roofing system if left unattended, which is why it's important to call a professional roofing contractor when you notice it beginning to sprout up. Over time, moss growth can reduce the lifespan of a roof through damage like:
- Moisture Retention: Moss retains water, which means that your roof could be susceptible to moisture damage if left unattended.
- Shingle Damage: Moss can lift or dislodge shingles, allowing moisture from rain or the damp climate to seep underneath.
- Increased Weight: When wet, moss becomes very heavy, which can put an excessive strain on your roof.
- Pest Attraction: Many pests are attracted to moss and may make your roof their new home if moss is growing abundantly.
What To Do About a Mossy Roof
When you notice moss growing on your roof, it's important to schedule a roof inspection with a trusted contractor. After assessing the moss and any resulting damage, a roofer will be able to inform you on the best course of action for your roof specifically.
Moss can usually be washed away, but because certain chemicals or high water pressure may leave your roofing materials damaged, the right combination must be used. We suggest going with something like a leaf blower to gently remove the moss, and a moss-specific cleaner to avoid further compromising your roof. Many contractors offer professional roofing cleaning services as another option.
KVN Construction has installed 2 million+ square feet of roofing during our time in business, giving us the expertise to offer the top-quality roofing services we've become known for today. We specialize in asphalt shingles, which we exclusively source from the leading brand Malarkey, so our customers always receive long-lasting and high-quality roof replacements when they work with us. Get in touch with KVN Construction today to learn more, and we'll give you a free estimate on any of our roofing services.
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