Cleaning the roof is the last thought to cross anyone's mind. However, the roof, being one of the most neglected and difficult to reach areas, is a safe haven for the likes of mildew, moss, mould and other types of fungus.
Most roofing materials are vulnerable to the onset of fungus and moss. Even roof tiles made up of cement can harbour moss. The moss by itself causes no harm to the roof. The roof tiles are however affected by the moisture which is trapped between the roof and the moss. And over time this causes the roof to deteriorate.
Removing the moss from the roof tiles
You need to add one cup of €˜oxygen bleach' to a bucket of cool water. Access the roof using a ladder. Using a hose, wet the roof tiles that are covered by surface dirt, leaves and moss. Use a broom to scrub the tiles with the bleach solution. Keep scrubbing until you get rid of all the moss and dirt. Allow the bleach solution to remain on the tiles for about ten minutes. Then wash off the solution using a hose.
Preventing moss from growing on roof tiles
Cut any tree branches that hang over your roof. These provide the perfect conditions for moss to grow on your roof. Clean the roof regularly by clearing the accumulated waste as these are the food sources for fungus and moss. Installing Zinc strips on the roof top can hinder the growth of moss. Whenever it rains, zinc from the strip drips down the roof. Thus, one can maintain their roof and keep the moss away.
