What does moss clearance from a roof involve, and how do you hire it out?
Short answer. Moss clearance means removing established moss from a roof, ideally by treating it first and then gently brushing or scraping it off downhill, never by high-pressure washing. If you hire it out, ask exactly how they clean, whether they protect plants and gutters, and get before and after photos so you can spot any damage the clearance exposes.
What a good clearance includes
- A look at the roof's condition before starting, with photos.
- A moss treatment labeled for your roof type, applied in suitable weather.
- Gentle removal of dead moss in the downhill direction with soft brushes or plastic scrapers.
- Protection for landscaping, ponds, and painted surfaces from runoff.
- Clearing gutters and downspouts of the debris that comes off.
- Optional prevention, such as zinc or copper strips near the ridge.
Questions to ask before hiring
- Do you pressure wash? If the answer is yes, keep looking. High pressure strips granules and can void the shingle warranty.
- What product do you use? Ask for the product name and check that its label approves asphalt shingles.
- Are you insured? Roof work carries real fall risk; ask for proof of liability coverage.
- Will you walk on the roof? Walking on mossy shingles can crack brittle tabs; experienced crews minimize it.
- Do you provide photos? Before and after photos protect both of you.
After the clearance
Thick moss can hide cracked or lifted shingles, granule loss, and softened deck edges. Look over the photos, or have a roofer inspect, before assuming the roof is fine. Then deal with the shade and debris that grew the moss, or you will be paying for clearance again in a couple of years. See moss and lichen on roofs and trees and your roof.