Your rooftop significantly influences the value of your home. Despite your best attempts to keep it in pristine condition, you may not have been successful in preventing algae or mold from growing on the shingles. You can maintain your roof’s integrity, appearance, and value by knowing how to eliminate and prevent moss on roofs.
What You’ll Need for DIY Cleaning
For homeowners doing it themselves:
- Garden hose with spray nozzle
- Pump sprayer
- Safety gear (goggles, rubber gloves, slip-resistant shoes, safety rope)
- Ladder
- Old clothes (chemicals may stain)
Why professionals use soft washing instead: Professional roof cleaning companies use specialized low-pressure “soft wash” systems that safely remove growth without damaging shingles – combining the right pressure with professional-grade solutions for longer-lasting results.
Method 1: DIY 50/50 Bleach Solution (Cheapest Option)
Mix: Equal parts household bleach and water
Steps:
- Protect plants first – Spray foundation plants with water (bleach runoff kills vegetation)
- Apply from top down – Use pump sprayer, starting at roof peak
- Let it work – Wait 15-20 minutes as solution loosens growth
- Rinse thoroughly – Use garden hose from top to bottom
- Rinse plants again – Flush away any bleach residue
Cost: $5-10 | Time: 2-3 hours
Method 2: Commercial Roof Cleaners (Eco-Friendly)
Better for the environment and your landscaping. Look for products containing oxygen bleach or TSP (trisodium phosphate).
Pro tip: Only apply on overcast days. Sunlight evaporates the cleaner before it works, wasting your time and money.
Cost: $20-40 | Time: 2-3 hours
Ready to Get a Spotless, Moss-Free Roof Without the Hassle?
Schedule Your Free Roof Inspection
Every day moss stays on your roof costs you money in potential repairs and reduces your home’s value. Let our soft wash experts safely restore your roof before the damage spreads.
Prevention: Install Zinc or Copper Strips (Lasts 10+ Years)
The smartest long-term solution costs under $50 and takes 30 minutes.
How it works: Rain releases metal molecules that wash down your roof, killing algae and moss before they grow.
Installation:
- Buy 2-4 inch zinc or copper strips from any hardware store
- Slide under shingles near roof peak (leave 1-2 inches exposed)
- Secure with roofing nails or screws with rubber washers
Maintenance: Brush and clean strips annually to prevent buildup on the metal itself.
Why This Matters
Algae and moss don’t just look bad, they:
- Retain moisture, causing shingle rot
- Lift shingle edges, allowing leaks
- Reduce roof lifespan by 10-15 years
- Lower home value by $5,000-15,000
Preventing Mold and Algae Growth on Your Roof
You can prevent mold and algae buildup on your roof with a few simple steps. One of the most effective methods is installing zinc or copper flashing near the roof peak. When rainwater runs over the exposed metal, it releases ions that naturally inhibit algae and mold growth before they can take hold.
Installation is straightforward and requires minimal tools. Two- to four-inch metal strips can be secured beneath the top row of shingles using roofing nails or screws with rubber washers, leaving an inch or two exposed. Flashing can also be slipped under loosened shingle tabs for a cleaner look.
While flashing may occasionally collect moss, regular brushing and cleaning with a commercial solution or a 50/50 bleach-and-water mix will keep it effective. Since algae and mold can quickly damage your roof’s appearance and lifespan, preventive flashing combined with proper cleaning helps protect your investment long term.
When to Call a Professional
If your roof is steep (over 6/12 pitch), over 20 years old, or the growth covers more than 30% of the surface, hire a professional roof cleaning service. Safety and proper technique matter more than saving a few hundred dollars.
