It’s very easy and common to overlook moss growing on your roof. Some homeowners even think it adds charm and character to a property. But if green patches start to spread across your tiles, it’s time to look closer.
While moss may seem harmless, it can lead to serious issues beneath the surface, like water retention, tile damage, and even structural problems to the roof. Left untreated, moss can cost you far more in repairs than a simple roof cleaning service will.
Why Does Moss Grow on Roofs?
We all know that moss thrives in damp, shaded environments. Especially on north-facing roofs or those where trees block sunlight. Moisture will settle in, its spores take hold, and over time, you’ve got a carpet of green growing across your roof tiles. Moss is particularly common in areas like Edinburgh and West Lothian, where the weather tends to be wetter and cooler.
But while it may appear slow-growing, moss is persistent. It wedges itself between tiles, lifts them ever so slightly, and allows water to seep in beneath. This leads to leaks, rot, and even dampness that can creep into the building.
What Damage Can Moss Cause?
Moss isn’t just unsightly, it’s destructive. Here’s what it can lead to:
- Trapped moisture, which accelerates roof degradation
- Lifted tiles, exposing your underlayment to the elements
- Blocked gutters and downpipes, increasing overflow risks
- Slippery surfaces around your property from moss runoff
- Decreased property value due to poor curb appeal and hidden damage
This is why we always tell homeowners: roof cleaning isn’t just a vanity project. It’s property or home maintenance. Done right, it protects your investment.
What’s the Safest Way to Remove Moss?
Forget pressure washing. It might be quick, but it can strip your tiles, force water into your roof structure, and void any manufacturer warranties. Instead, we use:
✅ Steam Cleaning
A low-pressure, high-temperature approach that gently lifts and kills moss without damaging tiles. It’s safe, effective, and perfect for delicate surfaces like slate or clay tiles.
✅ Biocide Treatment
After the moss is removed, we apply a professional-grade biocide that targets remaining spores and prevents regrowth. This ensures your roof stays clean for much longer and slows down future moss colonisation.
Together, these two steps offer long-term results and help extend the life of your roof.
DIY vs. Professional Roof Cleaning
While there are DIY options available (like scraping or chemical sprays), they’re often risky and ineffective long-term. You also run the risk of damaging your rood, injuring yourself or simply not getting the results you expected.
Climbing onto your roof is dangerous without the proper training and equipment. Also, without steam, regulated chemicals and the techniques needed for removal the moss often returns very quickly.
Hiring a specialist like JM Exterior Cleaning means:
- Safe access and working practices
- Use of approved cleaning agents and biocides
- Guaranteed, lasting results
- Visual inspection and photo evidence of a job well done
Serving Homeowners Across Edinburgh & West Lothian
If you live in Edinburgh, West Lothian, or the surrounding areas, we’re here to help. With over 125 five-star reviews and hundreds of roofs successfully cleaned, we’re trusted by homeowners who want the job done once and done right.
Our approach is simple:
- No pressure (literally and figuratively)
- No hidden costs
- Just honest work that protects your property and brings results you can see