Home Garden

How to Kill Moss on a House

Moss can damage your roof over time, therefore it is important that you kill it. The moss affects the aesthetics of your home and decreases curb appeal. The rapid progression of this plant may eventually cause the shingles to loosen or raise, thus allowing rain or other weather conditions to damage it, advises Washington State University Extension. Shady areas or decaying leaves, pine needles or other debris causes the moss to grow on this part of your home exterior.

Things You'll Need

  • Garden sprayer
  • Soap-based moss-removing agent
  • Tall ladder
  • Pressure washer
  • Zinc strips (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill the garden sprayer with a soap-based, moss-removing product. These are available at home supply, hardware and gardening centers. Use the solution according to the label directions on the product you buy.

    • 2

      Spray the solution onto the moss by using a tall ladder to allow the spray to reach the moss covered areas.

    • 3

      Wait for the moss to die. This may take a few days or longer. Once it is dead you can remove the debris left behind.

    • 4

      Point a pressure washer down the shingles. Do not direct it up onto the roof from the ground level or a ladder. This forceful spray action pushes water underneath the shingles, thus damaging them or causing leaks.