How to Stop Moss Growing on Roof Without Causing Damage

Moss often takes hold in the damp, shaded corners of your roof where water sits too long and debris builds up. If left unchecked, moss can lift shingles, trap moisture, and eventually lead to costly leaks or wood rot. 

Homeowners who want to learn how to stop moss growing on roof surfaces should know that moss acts like a sponge and keeps the roof damp longer than normal. Some homeowners try DIY fixes like vinegar or household cleaners, but improper use can cause damage to roofing materials.

According to a 2024 report from Oregon State University, roofs covered in moss “act like a sponge,” holding moisture longer and allowing fungi and decay to accelerate.

With a few proactive steps and a regular maintenance routine, however, you can stop moss before it becomes a serious problem and keep your roof moss-free, dry, and healthy for years to come.

Why Moss Grows on Roofs

Moss grows where roofs stay damp, shaded, and covered with debris. In Morris County and surrounding NJ towns, tall trees and nearby water sources make this extremely common.

New Jersey’s freeze-thaw cycles also push moisture under shingles in cold months, letting moss, mold, and lichen develop faster.

Over time, moss can:

• Break down asphalt shingles

• Cause gaps under the edges

• Lead to roof decking rot

• Turn small leaks into major water damage

According to This Old House (2025), the U.S. roofing contractors industry is projected to reach $76.4 billion in revenue this year. Research also shows that deferred care, such as failing to remove moss, mold, or lichen, is linked to significantly higher repair costs for homeowners.

Preventing moss before it grows is always the better and cheaper option.

How to Know If Moss Has Already Damaged Your Roof

Watch for these signs before leaks get worse:

• Shingles lifting or curling on shaded roof sides

• Soft or spongy areas when walked on

• Water stains on ceilings or attic walls

• Granules are collecting heavily in gutters

• Musty smell in upper rooms or attic

• Animals or insects nesting under shingles

If you have two or more of these, moss has already caused damage. Call a professional quickly.

How to Stop Moss Growing on Roof Surfaces: Simple Prevention Tips

Preventing moss mostly comes down to controlling moisture, sunlight, and roof cleanliness. Below are the most effective steps you can take.

Keep Your Roof Clean

Leaves, twigs, pollen, and branches trap moisture and encourage moss to spread. A clean roof gives moss nowhere to attach. 

Some homeowners consider using pressure washing, but strong pressure can strip shingle granules and weaken your roofing system. It’s safer to use a leaf blower or hire a roofer experienced in exterior cleaning.

You can:

• Remove debris using a soft broom or leaf blower from the ground or ladder

• Have a professional clean the roof if it’s steep or unsafe

• Schedule roof cleaning at least once or twice a year

Cleaning after fall and heavy storms is especially important because that’s when debris piles up quickly.

Cut Back Overhanging Tree Branches

Sunlight naturally dries and warms your roof. Moss hates sunlight. If trees block the sun or drop leaves onto the roof, moss will return no matter how many times you clean it.

That’s why trimming back tree branches makes such a big difference. When more sunlight and air can reach your roofing, it dries faster after rain. This reduces the damp, shady areas where moss grows and helps keep your roof healthier for a longer time.

Even just a few hours of sun per day can help stop moss from coming back. As a bonus, this also reduces wildlife activity on your roof and helps gutters stay cleaner.

Clean and Maintain Your Gutters

Your gutters help water move away from your home. When clogged, water backs up and creates wet roof edges where moss quickly forms. Keep gutters clean to ensure proper drainage and prevent early moss growth.

Regular gutter cleaning:

• Keeps water flowing off the roof quickly

• Prevents water from pooling or overflowing

• Protects fascia boards and attic areas from moisture

Gutters should be cleaned twice a year (spring and fall), more often if you have surrounding trees.

Add Zinc or Copper Strips

Zinc and copper are natural moss fighters. When rainwater passes over these strips, it washes down the roof and creates a surface that moss can’t attach to.

Some homeowners use zinc sulfate pellets as well, but strip installation is typically longer-lasting. The metal also helps slow the return of lichen and algae buildup.

This method can keep your roof moss-free for many years and is especially helpful if your home sits in a wooded or humid area.

Mistakes That Make Moss Worse

Avoid these common homeowner mistakes:

• Spraying too much bleach or vinegar (can damage shingles)

• Using pressure washing on asphalt roofs

• Ignoring early moss patches

• Scraping moss by hand to loosen shingles

• Walking on mossy surfaces to slippery and dangerous

A small mistake can shorten roof life by years.

Safe Ways to Remove Moss Already on Your Roof

If moss has already taken hold, don’t try to scrape or power-wash it off yourself,  as that can cause more harm than good. High pressure washing can strip away protective granules, damage shingles, and void roofing warranties.

The safest, most effective option is to hire a professional for soft-wash roof cleaning services who can remove moss using soft-wash treatments that target moss, algae, and mold at the root. They rinse the surface and make sure no debris or spores are left behind to regrow.

Burrini’s Power Washing recently treated a home in Randolph, NJ, where moss had taken over the shaded side of the roof. The homeowner thought the damage was minor, but a closer look showed lifted shingles and moisture already starting to sneak underneath. 

A soft-wash treatment successfully removes moss down to the root. The homeowner avoided what would have become an early and expensive roof replacement, simply by acting before leaks started.

A skilled roofer will also check for hidden moisture issues, gutter drainage problems, and areas where moss is likely to return. This gives homeowners peace of mind long after the cleaning is complete.

Keep Up with Roof Maintenance

Stopping moss requires consistent care. Inspect your roof twice a year, clean debris after storms, keep gutters open for proper drainage, and refresh metal strips every few years for continued protection. Staying proactive keeps your roof strong, dry, and resistant to moss in the long term.

Pay extra attention to shady parts of the roof since they stay damp longer. You can also refresh zinc or copper strips over time to keep them working. Staying proactive keeps your roof dry, strong, and protected from future moss problems.

Keep Your Roof Protected

Do not wait until moss turns into a costly repair. With simple habits and regular care, you can keep your roof clean, strong, and looking good for years.

If you already see moss growing or want to prevent it before it spreads, Burrini’s Power Washing can help. They provide safe soft-wash roof cleaning, gutter cleaning, and treatments that stop moss from coming back without the harsh force of pressure washing.

Contact Burrini’s Power Washing today for a roof inspection and a free quote. Taking care of the problem early can save you from stress and expensive damage later on.

Need help stopping moss from spreading on your roof? Burrini’s Power Washing is experienced in safe roof moss removal and prevention for New Jersey homes. Reach out anytime to get a free quote and keep your roof looking clean and healthy.