How to Identify, Remove & Prevent Lichen, Algae & Moss Problems on Your East Hampton, NY Roof

Roof tiles are designed to withstand wind, rain, hail and snow. But roofing tiles, especially when under shade and exposed to moisture regularly, will develop lichens and moss. Both of these organisms can cause the tile to erode and decay shortening the lifespan of your roof. It is important to learn how to identify lichen and moss as they develop to know when to have your roof power washed to remove the moss and lichen before they cause irrepairable damages.

What Causes Lichen to Grow on My Roof?

Lichen is a living symbiotic organism that is actually two organisms: one part algae, and one part fungus. They co-inside together where they feed and protect each other. Lichen will often develop on natural stones and on concrete roofing tile. However, they are also known to develop on asphalt shingles as well. It depends on the species of lichens that develops. Lichens will appear as a blue-green cluster or spots that spread across the roof. Other species of lichens will appear as a greenish brown or yellow color which are usually found on the edge of the tiles. Lichens develop in high, moist, shady areas. Some species can thrive in dry, sunny conditions. However, most lichens require shade and moisture and when exposed to sunlight they will naturally die or stop from spreading past their shade confines. If lichen remains under the shade, they will thrive in those areas and damage the roofing tile they rest on. To prevent future damage of your roof, have the lichen removed and the roof cleaned. Lichen are typically treated with chemical agents and with the aid of a powerwasher.

Is Moss on My Roof Bad?

Moss is another organism that requires a lot of moisture and shade cover in order to develop. It is actually common to have both moss and lichens coexisting on the same roof. There are a number of moss species that develop on the surface of lichens. Unfortunately, moss requires a much different cleaning method than lichens. In most cases, the moss needs to be scraped off first to expose the tile surface. The surface of the tile is then treated to prevent future growth of lichens or moss. Moss is easily identified due to their fuzzy grass like texture. Moss coloring can vary from a greenish color to brown. Like lichen, moss that is exposed to sunlight will die off or prevent the moss from spreading. However, moss is a little bit more durable than lichens and it will require months of sunlight and dryness to kill off moss. This is why it is important to remove moss as they being to develop.

Soft Wash Roof Cleaning in Amagansett, Bridgehampton, East Hampton, Hampton Bays, Montauk, North Haven, North Sea, Noyack, Quogue, Shelter Island, Sag Harbor, Sagaponack, Shinnecock Hills, Southampton, Springs, Wainscott, Watermill, Westhampton, Westhampton Beach, New York

It is recommended that you your keep roof top in the sunlight. However, it is very common to plant large shade trees to help keep the home cooler in the summer time. While shade trees can greatly reduce your power bill, your roof is now at risk for moss or lichen. This is where Woodedge Powerwashing can help. We can help powerwash your home’s roof to maintain and prevent moss or lichen development and extend the life of your home’s roof. Both moss and lichen can develop anywhere around your home from patios to walkways and even affect your landscaping. If you need help keeping your home clear of lichen or moss growth, Woodedge Powerwashing can help. Contact us today.