Sweet Lime to Control Roof Moss

Moss Description

• Moss is composed of a mass of small plants known as bryophytes. Moss grows on tree bark, soil, rocks and virtually any moist and shaded surface. In humid climates moss accumulates on roofs and on the north side of buildings. Moss accumulations are typically green, yellow-green or yellowish-brown in color and present in small tufts or mats. Thin out tree branches that shade the roof to allow sunlight to reach the roof surface.

Preventing Moss Growth On Roofs

• To prevent moss from growing on the roof of your home, keep the roof as clean as possible. Remove leaves, pine needles and other debris at least once a year. Accumulated debris retains moisture and promotes moss development. In the spring or summer, sprinkle powdered laundry or dishwasher detergent on roof moss. Wait three to four days. Use a stiff broom and a leaf blower to remove moss growth. Do not use a pressure washer as it can damage roof shingles. Clean moss out of rain gutters as well as off the surface of the roof. If your home has a roof that is steeper than five inches of rise per horizontal foot, then rent professional safety equipment or engage the services of a professional roof cleaning company to handle the job.

Sweet Lime

• Sweet lime does not kill moss. It works by changing the pH level of the soil media that supports moss growth. Sprinkle sweet lime on moss growth when the moss is damp after a rain. Lime begins reacting immediately if moisture is present, however it may take a few months for the full benefit to occur. To control new moss growth, apply sweet lime in the spring and again in the fall as part of a regular maintenance program. Although an application of sweet lime can be applied to moss growing anywhere, it is most effective when applied to lawn moss. Sweet lime will have little impact on roof moss that grows in a very tiny amount of soil media.

Roof Replacement

• If you live in a moss prone area and are planning to install a new roof on your home, select a metal roof to prevent moss from developing. Moss cannot grow on a smooth surface. Although metal roofs are somewhat more expensive than composition roofing materials, these kinds of roofs do not need to be replaced as often.