Roof Mold: How to Clean Your Roof & Prevent Regrowth

by RobertKeith

Learn about the health dangers and property damage that comes from letting mold and algae grow untreated.

Roof mold can be a bad look for any property, but the dangers are more than just aesthetic.

Mold is a complex life form, and therefore needs sustenance to survive. More often than not, they find it by eating the roof itself! Limestone shingles are the most vulnerable of all, as mold tends to find this mineral particularly appetizing.

Macro Mold Colony
Macro Mold Colony
By "moomsabuy", FreeDigitalPhotos.net

The Financial Cost

It goes without saying that unsightly marks over a roof can reduce both curb appeal and property value.  However, the economic impact can go far deeper.

By eating away at your roof, mold can reduce the weather-proofing and insulation of your household, meaning a greater dependence on electricity to keep yourself comfortable.

The Health Cost

These microscopic organisms are now in an ideal position to spread.  Whether via an open window or an air conditioning unit, it can easily make its way into your home, triggering allergies and reducing the overall hygiene of your lifestyle.

Roof Cleaning

How to Clean Roof Mold

While the jury is still out on its effectiveness compared to commercially available roof cleaning solutions, the following remedy is often cited as effective:

  • One quarter bleach
  • Three quarters water
  • ...and a dash of trisodium phosphate

A representative of House Washing Brisbane suggests spraying the roof with a large hand pump spraying device, then letting it sit for 15-20 minutes.  If it doesn't fall away under a brush, repeat the entire process until it does.

If you're concerned about nearby trees or plants, spray them generously with pure, clean water first.  This will drastically reduce the risk of damage from bleach spray.

When you're done, very thoroughly rinse away the solution with a hose to prevent the bleach from damaging the roof shingles.

How to Stop it Growing Back

Your first priority is to deal with nearby branches, vines, or anything else that might prevent direct sunlight and a good air flow.  Remember: these organisms are far more likely to thrive in a damp, dark, closed-in area.

Zinc strips are an excellent way to prevent the regrowth of mildew and mold.  Installed near the top ridge of your roof, water will carry traces of the metal down as it rains, triggering a chemical reaction that will slow - if not outright stop - further growth.

You can also purchase dedicated roof cleaning solution, which you can simply apply annually and leave to do its job.  With the right precautions first time around, you'll find it's a job that can get progressively easier each year.

The Dangers of DIY

Roof cleaning can be very hazardous, so be sure to exercise every caution to ensure you don't slip.
If in doubt, call a professional, or consult them regarding the best safety practices to follow.
Mould Colony
Mould Colony
By "Photokanok", FreeDigitalPhotos.net

...And while you're on a roll, how about cleaning those windows too?

Updated: 01/21/2013, RobertKeith
 
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katiem2 on 11/23/2012

I'm tweeting this, I see this problem on roofs as I drive about the city. Great tips on getting rid of that unattractive mold... does the same process work for mold on siding? :)K

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