Next to mold, mildew, and storm damage, algae and moss are the leading threats to a roof’s long-term durability and value. Like mold and mildew, these organisms reproduce by releasing clouds of spores into the air which can reach the highest areas of a roof, and over time can cause damage serious enough to require emergency roofing repairs or even full replacement. If you want to avoid this issue, keep the following moss and algae prevention tips in mind.

How Can You Keep Moss and Algae Off Your Roof?

1. Trim Your Trees

Moss and algae spores require shelter, moisture, and plenty of organic matter as food to establish themselves on roofing. While tree branches provide plenty of shade and can increase your home’s curb appeal, they can also create the perfect environment for moss and algae growth. Not only will they protect delicate spores but leaves and twigs will provide plenty of nutrients for developing colonies.

For that reason, it’s wise to regularly trim back tree branches away from your roof by several feet. This can also save you the trouble of emergency roofing repairs in the future, as storms and high winds can break branches off and drive them into your roof, causing extensive damage.

2. Clean the Gutters

Even if you regularly trim your trees, leaves, twigs, dirt, and other organic matter can be blown onto your roofing and gather in your gutters. Unless promptly removed, these substances can trap condensation and rainfall, thus providing plenty of the moisture and energy moss and algae need to flourish. As a rule of thumb, plan to clean your gutters at least once in the spring, once in the fall, and as needed to counter more frequent buildups of leaves and twigs.

3. Install Anti-Moss and -Algae Metals

Two metals, zinc and copper, contain sulfates, or mineral salts, which naturally eliminate moss and algae spores and inhibit their growth. You can take advantage of this by installing shingles coated in copper granules. Alternatively, you can mount zinc and copper strips on your roofing which will release sulfates when rained on, thus washing away and killing spores naturally.

If moss and algae have led to leaks and water damage on your roof, turn to Ford & Son Roofing in Ohio for prompt professional roofing repair services. Serving clients throughout the Cincinnati Tri-State area since 1945, these experienced roofing contractors offer everything from routine and emergency repairs to maintenance, roof replacements, and new installations. Call (513) 231-1600 to schedule a consultation or visit them online to learn more about their services.