Houston, we have a problem- mold! If you have lived in our area any length of time you know not only mold, but moss and algae can be found almost anywhere including your roof because all these things need to thrive is humidity and moisture which makes our close proximity to the gulf a breeding ground for this unsightly mess that if left untreated can cause serious damages to your roof. Today our Katy roofing company is going to share with you how to remove mold from your shingles and why you might need to consider hiring a roofing contractor to do it for you. Before we dive into the how let’s talk about the why because most homeowners in Katy are unaware of how damaging mold, moss, and mildew can be for your roof, home, and health.
Damages Mold Causes To Your Katy Roofing Materials
Mildew, algae, moss, and mold not only hamper your curb appeal, but they are detrimental to your roof. When moss adhere to the asphalt shingles, they can peel the UV granules that keep the roof protected off your home. As this spreads across the surface, it can allow moisture to seep into the home and if moss gets inside, it can leave a horrible smell and impact the air quality which can cause allergies and if you have an asthmatic family member respiratory issues. Moss can also attach itself to the wood structural elements causing rotting shingles and beams that can be detrimental to the overall structural integrity of your home. Bottom line moss, mold, mildew cannot be permitted to linger on your roof without your roof, home, or health being put in jeopardy. Here is a solution that our Katy roofing company recommends you use.
Step By Step Instructions To Remove Moss and Mold From Your Roof
Supplies
Drop cloth
Gloves and mask
5-gallon bucket
bleach
Garden hose
Pump Sprayer
Most of these are common household items or can be purchased at your local Katy hardware store for under $50.00. The first thing you want to do is using your plastic painters tarp or drop cloth you want to cover any landscaping features that’s right under the roofline including plants, flower beds, and patio furniture. Once everything is secure take a 5-gallon bucket and fill your bucket with warm water then mix in a cup of bleach – use your gloves and a mask as the fumes will be strong. Fill the pump sprayer up (you may have to do this a few times) and spray the solution onto the roof. Make sure to cover every area as mold, mildew, algae, and moss can spread and get into the nook and cranny of your roof. Allow the solution to sit half an hour and then gently rinse it off using a garden hose. We recommend never to use a pressure washer unless you’re a professional as this can void your roofs warranty and composite the granule shingles that protect your roof from ultraviolet rays. You want to rinse and then repeat the process only the second time the solution only needs to sit for 15 minutes before being rinsed off. When rinsing always work with the top of the affected shingle and go towards. Also keep in mind to never force moss off the roof if you see some left as it can tear your shingles instead wait for the next rainy day and let it come off naturally. If you are still struggling with your roof its best to call a Katy roofing company for assistance or if you’re not able to reach the shingles. Also bear in mind that sometimes mold is a warning sign of other roofing issues so it may be better to have it inspected even after removing the mold.
Ways to Prevent Mold From Invading Your Roof
While we can’t control mold spores from flying from one roof to the next there are thing you can do so that your roof is less prone to being the roof in your Katy HOA that allow it to spread. Here is a list of our top 5 ways to prevent it.
Gutter Cleaning: When you remove gunk from your gutters and roof such as leaves and twigs during the fall and spring it will allow for water to be diverted so the moisture moves away from your roof to the ground. Also, consider using materials that will aid in preventing moss and algae such as copper or zinc
Trimming Your Trees: When you cut back the crown of your tree this allow sunlight to reach your roof to drawl up the moisture thus preventing growth
Metal Roofs: If it’s time to replace your roof you may want to consider a metal roof as they can defend your roof from mold and algae. In the unlikely chance mold does start to grow its easier than an asphalt roof to wipe away.
When it comes to mold, moss, algae, and mildew its never wise to tackle this without the help of a Katy roofing company because climbing on a roof can be hazardous and some materials are not wise to walk on because it can damage the roof.
Benefits of Hiring a Katy Roofing Company
Since mold is commonly travels between roof to roof it can be a sign there are other problems that requires a roofing company so hiring someone like Elite Disaster Recovery for a free roof inspection can prevent larger and more costly roof repairs. Making smaller repairs will also reduce the chances of mold growth in the future and if the roof doesn’t need repairing at least you can rest easier having a professional handle the mold so that you have one less headache on your hands. For more information about mold, roof repairs, or to schedule your free roofing inspection contact our Katy roofing company for fast, reliable service in Katy, Houston, Baytown, Cypress, Channelview, Deer Park or anywhere in Harris County.