How to Get Rid of Moss on Asphalt

Moss can attach itself to just about any surface, including asphalt roof shingles. While its lush green appearance might lend the home a rustic, woodsy appeal, the moss can do serious damage to the asphalt roofing. Roots wrap around the shingles, lifting them away from each other and allowing water to penetrate the previously sealed surface. The moss also traps moisture, keeping the asphalt beneath it wet, which causes it to degrade quickly. Moss should be removed from asphalt roofs as soon as it appears.

Leaf blower
Wire brush
Zinc sulfate

Instructions

- 1
  Remove dirt, leaves, loose branches and debris from the roof using a leaf blower. Be sure to blow in the direction of the lay of the shingles to avoid any accidental damage or lifting the shingles.
- 2
  Brush clumps of moss off the roof. Use a wire brush, but take care to brush only the moss and not the asphalt shingles. Accidentally removing the granules that cover the shingles will shorten the lifespan of the roof.
- 3
  Sprinkle zinc sulfate in lines across the roof, making each line about 6 inches wide. Place the lines about 18 inches apart.
- 4
  Cover desirable plants that are growing along the roof line to protect them from runoff of zinc sulfate.
- 5
  Wait about three weeks for the zinc sulfate to kill all of the moss.
- 6
  Brush the remaining moss off of the roof with a wire brush, taking care not to damage the asphalt tiles.

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