Your roof is one of the most critical parts of your home, protecting it from the elements year-round. However, living in a damp or humid environment like Kerikeri means your roof is at risk of moss and lichen growth. While these organic invaders may seem harmless initially, they can cause significant damage over time, leading to costly repairs or even a complete roof replacement for your Kerikeri home.
What Are Moss and Lichen?
Moss is a green, soft, and spongey type plant that thrives in moist, shaded areas. It often appears as a thick mat on roof surfaces, particularly on older or shaded roofs. Moss spreads through spores carried by the wind, which can quickly take hold in damp conditions.
On the other hand, Lichen is a combination of fungi and algae. It forms more crusty or leafy patches, that can be in a variety of colours, from pale green to orange or even black.
Unlike moss, lichen attaches itself more firmly to roofing materials, making it harder to remove. Lichen can be particularly damaging as it secretes acids that slowly break down roofing materials over time.
How Moss and Lichen Damage Your Roof
Traps Moisture
Moss absorbs and retains water like a sponge. When it grows on your roof, it holds moisture against the roofing material, preventing proper drying. Any lengthy period of dampness can lead to rot in timber structures which in turn leads to deterioration of your roofing materials.
Additionally, trapped moisture encourages mould growth, which can spread into your home's interior, affecting air quality.
Lifts Roofing Materials
As moss grows, it will spread underneath shingles or roofing sheets, gradually lifting them. This creates gaps where water can actually seep in, leading to those nasty leaks, water damage, and worse yet, even structural issues over time.
Over time, moss expansion can compromise the integrity of metal, tile, or asphalt roofing, weakening their attachment to the roof deck.
Causes Roof Decay
Both moss and lichen accelerate roof deterioration by breaking down the protective layers of your roofing materials. Asphalt shingles, for example, contain granules that protect against UV rays and water damage.
Moss and lichen growth can strip these granules away, leaving the underlying roofing material much more vulnerable to damage and shortening the lifespan of the roof.
Reduces Roof Lifespan
Roofs covered in moss and lichen can experience much faster wear and tear. The continuous exposure to moisture and organic growth weakens the roofing materials, which in turn reduce their lifespan and therefore increasing the need for frequent repairs.
If left untreated, this could mean a roof replacement would need to be done years earlier than you expected.
Blocks Drainage Systems
Moss and lichen can also clog gutters and downpipes, preventing proper water drainage. This then leads to overflowing gutters, which can cause water damage to your home's walls, foundations, and landscaping.
If water backs up under the roofing materials, it can lead to leaks inside the home, resulting in nasty mould growth, wood rot, and interior ceiling damage.
Increases Roof Weight Load
Another issue with a thick layer of moss on your roof is it can add extra unnecessary weight, particularly during rainy seasons when it absorbs water. This extra weight can put extra stress on the roof structure, potentially leading to sagging or damage to supporting beams and trusses.
Over time, this added burden may compromise the roof's structural integrity, meaning you will be looking at needing a roof replacement.
Encourages Pest Infestations
Damp, moss-covered roofs create a welcoming environment for insects, birds, and rodents. Small animals can then nest in these mossy areas, potentially causing further damage by burrowing into the roof structure.
Birds and rodents can also add additional debris onto the roof, worsening the drainage issues and increasing the risk of potential roof leaks.
How to Prevent Moss and Lichen Growth
Regular Roof Cleaning
By scheduling regular roof maintenance and professional cleaning, you can take proactive steps to prevent moss and lichen from taking hold. Removing debris, such as leaves and branches, also minimises the damp conditions that encourage growth.
A professional roof wash can safely remove the moss and lichen without damaging the roofing material, giving you peace of mind and control over your roof's health.
Improve Sunlight Exposure
Trimming any overhanging trees and branches will allow more sunlight to reach your roof, which is a simple yet effective way to prevent any moss and lichen growth.
Also increased sunlight exposure helps keep the roof dry and less inviting for these organic invaders. By understanding and implementing this strategy, you can feel empowered and knowledgeable about maintaining your roof's health.
Apply Anti-Moss Treatments
There are specialised roof treatments available that can prevent moss and lichen from regrowing, providing you with a sense of confidence and security. Zinc and copper strips installed along the roof ridge can help deter moss and lichen growth by releasing natural biocides when it rains.
Additionally, applying a moss and lichen-resistant coating after a thorough cleaning can prolong the life of your roof, giving you peace of mind about its longevity.
Inspect Your Roof Regularly
Having a professional roofing expert inspect your roof at least once a year ensures early detection of moss, lichen, or any other potential damage before it becomes a significant issue. Regular inspections can also identify other problems, such as cracked tiles, loose metal sheets, or clogged gutters.
When to Consider Roof Replacement in Kerikeri
If moss and lichen have already caused significant damage to your roof, such as causing leaks, structural weakening, or any major material deterioration, then it may be time for a roof replacement for your Kerikeri home.
At Flood Roofing, we specialise in high-quality roof replacements, making sure that your home remains safe, secure, and looking great for years to come. Signs that a roof replacement may be necessary include:
Persistent leaks that cannot be easily repaired
Significant lifting or cracking of the roofing materials
Structural damage from water infiltration
Extensive moss and lichen growth despite repeated cleaning
A roof that has exceeded its expected lifespan (typically 20-30 years, depending on the material)
Contact Flood Roofing for Expert Advice
Don't wait until moss and lichen causes nasty, costly damage to your home. If you're considering a full roof replacement or repair, Flood Roofing is here to help. Contact us today for expert roofing solutions that keep your home protected from the elements.
For professional roof replacement and spouting services in Kerikeri, trust the experts at Flood Roofing. Call us today at 0800 4 FLOOD or get a free quote through our website!
