Winter will soon be transitioning into spring in South Jersey. Regardless of where you live—Gloucester County, Camden County, or beyond—there is something you may notice growing on your roof. Those green and black spots or streaks on the shingles? That is not typical discoloration. You may have moss or algae growth, and that can lead to long-term damage if left unchecked. Let’s explore why moss and algae thrive during spring and how to prevent them from compromising your roof’s integrity.
Key Takeaways
- Moss and algae thrive in South Jersey’s spring due to warm temperatures, moisture, and shaded conditions, particularly on roofs with limited sunlight.
- Moss can trap moisture against shingles, leading to damage, while algae feed on limestone in asphalt shingles, reducing their lifespan.
- Preventative measures like trimming branches, cleaning gutters, and installing zinc or copper strips can help stop moss and algae growth.
- Proper attic ventilation reduces moisture buildup, further preventing conditions that encourage moss and algae formation.
- If moss or algae are already present, gentle hand cleaning or professional roof maintenance is the safest way to remove them without damaging shingles.
Why Do Moss and Algae Grow in Spring?
South Jersey is the ideal environment for moss and algae growth. We have cool evenings paired with mildly warm days, replete with moisture. In shaded areas, the chance of moss and algae growth on your roof is incredibly high.
Moss tends to thrive in areas with limited sunlight and persistent moisture. For example, if your roof is shaded by trees or covered in damp leaves for a good part of the year, there is an increased chance of moss growth.
Algae, particularly the type known as Gloeocapsa magma, produces black streaks on shingles and thrives in humid, damp conditions. Interestingly, this kind of algae prefers the limestone filler in asphalt shingles, which is why you see it so often alongside moss.
The Risk of Moss and Algae Growth on Roofing in South Jersey
While moss and algae might appear to be cosmetic issues, they can lead to significant problems over time:
- Shingle Damage: Moss holds moisture against shingles, which can cause them to lift, crack, or rot. Algae can deteriorate shingle materials by feeding on limestone, reducing your roof’s lifespan.
- Water Damage: Moss can trap water on your roof, increasing the risk of leaks and water infiltration.
- Reduced Energy Efficiency: Algae’s dark streaks can cause roofs to absorb more heat, raising indoor temperatures and increasing energy costs.
- Curb Appeal: Moss and algae growth can make your roof look aged and unkempt, negatively impacting your home’s curb appeal and value.
How to Prevent Moss and Algae Growth on Roofing
Moss and algae takes time to grow, so the best way to prevent it from growing is to do preventative maintenance throughout the year. Here are some steps you can take to keep your roof clean and free of moss and algae:
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Shaded areas retain moisture, creating ideal conditions for moss and algae growth. Trimming tree branches allows more sunlight to reach your roof, helping it stay dry.
- Clean Gutters Regularly: Clogged gutters can lead to water buildup along the edges of your roof, creating a breeding ground for moss. Ensure your gutters are free from leaves and debris, especially during spring.
- Install Zinc or Copper Strips or Algae-Resistant Shingles: Zinc and copper have natural antifungal properties. Installing strips along the roof’s ridgeline allows rainwater to carry trace amounts of these metals down the roof, inhibiting moss and algae growth. Another option are algae-resistant shingles that have copper or zinc granules instead of strips.
- Check Your Roof Ventilation: Good attic ventilation helps regulate temperature and moisture levels, reducing conditions that promote moss and algae growth.
What to Do If There’s Already Significant Moss or Algae Growth
If moss or algae is already visible on your roof, you want to act quickly. Addressing the problem is essential. You will need to remove moss carefully—and by hand. Using a soft bristle brush and a cleaning solution made with water and mild detergent, you want to gently scrub at the moss. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, like a power washer, as that can damage your roof.
When in doubt, it is best to call in a professional. A roofing professional like RGB Construction knows how to safely remove moss and algae without compromising the shingles or underlayment.
Contact a South Jersey Roofing Contractor Today
Moss and algae may seem like minor nuisances, but they can cause significant damage to your roof over time. Preventative maintenance and professional care are key to keeping your roof in top condition throughout South Jersey’s spring season and beyond.
At RGB Construction, we’re here to help South Jersey homeowners protect their roofs from moss, algae, and other environmental factors. Whether you need a roof cleaning, inspection, or replacement, our experienced team is ready to assist.
Call RGB Construction at 856-264-9093 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Let us help you preserve your roof’s integrity and curb appeal for years to come.
