During the spring period, there is an increase in rainfall, which has the repercussion of promoting the growth of moss. The sight is pleasant when it comes to old barns, tree stumps, riverbanks, and old fences but the case is different regarding roofing systems. This is because it causes a drastic reduction in the performance of the roof, which would affect its durability. In this article, we would be shedding light on some costly repercussion of having moss growth on resident and commercial roofs.
Your Lot is Important
Environmental condition is an essential factor to consider when it comes to house construction. Areas experiencing little sunlight tends to be very cold and wet (especially in raining season) given a conducive environment for the growth of moss, mold, scum, and algae. However, preventing this is possible through practices such as cleaning, minor repair, and routine inspections. It is important to note that this is necessary for buildings constructed on shaded lot.
Curb Appeal
The importance of curb appeal to real estate agents and the effect it has on individuals cannot be overemphasized. It influences your relationship with the neighborhood’s homeowners’ association (HOA) and the city as a whole. The accumulation of moss on roofs over time causes the growth of large gray, greenish patches which does not only reduce the attractiveness of the building as a whole but also the curb value. Without proper maintenance, you stand the chance of facing this ugly situation in the nearest future.
Durability
Spending on repair and replacement of the roof can be a serious pain especially if you find yourself doing it on a regular basis. Analysis has proven the growth of algae, scum, mold, mildew, ambiguous muck, and moss to be one of the primary agents contributing to the reduction in lifespan of a roof. A significant example can be seen in the asphalt roof, which reduces in lifespan with about 30% when attacked by moss. Initially, the roof is meant to last for 20 to 30 year, but under the constant attack of moss, its lifespan drastically reduces if no action is taken in time to stop it.
Water Leaks
Moss is known for its ability to absorb moisture up to 20 times as much as its original weight. This proves it can hold a large quantity of water while on your roof. This will lead to soaked ceiling, wet attic insulation, damaged shingles, underlayment etc. Moss is capable of producing minuscule fibers known as “rhizomes” which has a high penetrating power of getting deep into roof substrates. This has the repercussion of opening up essential granules fashioned primarily to prevent cracking, warping, and drying out of shingles.
Insurance Policy by Homeowners
There is always a feeling of confidence that comes with the insurance of properties. The bitter truth about moss damage is that your insurance policy may not cover the damages associated with it. Insurance companies make it an important routine to consistently check on houses under their insurance policy to ensure they remain in a perfect condition. They give attention not just to walls but also to roof conditions. They usually place a demand on house owners to do some cleaning when they notice the roof appears to be messed up but do not hesitate to withdraw the policy when they notice nothing was done about it. Allowing the growth of moss on the roof would not only give room for physical damages if you do not do something about the moss in time but also cause loss of insurance policy when you need it the most.
Way Out
There are several ways to get out of the mess caused by a growing moss on your roof. However, the best advisable method is to get a professional roofing company that could be trusted to look into it and removes every moss out using professional tools.
