Moss might look picturesque in the damp forests of Oregon, but when it takes over your roof, it’s a different story. Moss can cause significant damage if left untreated, leading to costly repairs down the road. At Sloan’s Home Solutions, we understand the importance of regular moss treatment to protect your home and ensure its longevity. In this post, we’ll discuss the different methods to treat moss, focusing on safe and eco-friendly options like zinc and sodium bicarbonate, and why regular treatment is essential in our region.
Why Moss Treatment Is Crucial in Oregon
Oregon’s climate, with its wet winters and mild summers, creates the perfect environment for moss to thrive. Moss loves moisture and shade, and if not treated, it can grow thick and spread across your roof, causing shingles to lift, curl, and eventually leak. That’s why, in Oregon, it’s recommended to apply moss treatment every year to prevent these issues.
Safe and Effective Moss Treatment Options
When it comes to treating moss, not all methods are created equal. Some treatments can be harmful to your plants, pets, and the environment. Here are the top safe and effective options we recommend:
Zinc
Zinc is one of the most popular and effective treatments for moss. When applied correctly, zinc sulfate can prevent moss from growing for up to a year. It’s safe for your roof and, when used as directed, poses minimal risk to surrounding plants and animals. Zinc strips can also be installed along the roof’s ridge, slowly releasing zinc to inhibit moss growth over time.
Sodium Bicarbonate
Sodium bicarbonate is a household item that many people don’t realize can be used as an effective moss treatment. It’s a natural, non-toxic option that’s safe for plants and pets. By sprinkling sodium bicarbonate over mossy areas, you can kill the moss without harming your roof or the environment. Plus, it’s an affordable and accessible solution for homeowners.
Liquid Moss Treatment for Steep Roofs
For those with roofs that are too steep for the application of zinc or sodium bicarbonate, we recommend using a liquid moss treatment. August is the ideal time for this application, as it’s crucial to apply it when we are not experiencing rain. This method ensures that even the most challenging roofs are protected from moss growth.
Beware of Hazardous Moss Treatments
The internet is full of advice on how to kill moss, but not all of it is reliable or safe. Here are some common recommendations that we advise against:
1. Bleach
Bleach is often suggested as a quick way to kill moss, but it’s one of the worst methods you can use. Bleach is highly corrosive and can damage your shingles, shorten the lifespan of your roof, and harm the surrounding environment. Additionally, bleach can be dangerous to pets, plants, and wildlife if it runs off your roof during rain.
2. Vinegar
Vinegar is another common recommendation, but while it might seem like a natural alternative, it’s not very effective against moss. Vinegar can kill moss on contact, but it doesn’t prevent it from returning. Moreover, the acidity of vinegar can damage your roof’s shingles over time, leading to more significant issues.
3. Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is sometimes suggested as a way to remove moss, but this method can do more harm than good. The high-pressure water can strip away the protective granules on your shingles, leading to premature wear and tear. It also doesn’t address the root cause of the moss growth, meaning the problem will likely return quickly.
Similarly, soft washing, while less aggressive than pressure washing, also poses risks. The chemicals used in soft washing can be harsh and potentially damaging to your roof if not applied correctly. These chemicals might not only harm your shingles but can also run off into your garden, affecting plants and soil health. Soft washing, like pressure washing, may provide a temporary solution but often does not prevent the moss from coming back.
4. Salt
Some people recommend using salt to kill moss, but this is a bad idea for several reasons. Salt can damage your roof and gutters, and when it washes off in the rain, it can harm plants and contaminate soil. This method is not only ineffective but also environmentally harmful.
While zinc, sodium bicarbonate, and liquid treatments in dry conditions are safe, other moss treatments can be hazardous. Chemical-based moss killers often contain harsh ingredients that can harm plants, pets, and local wildlife. These treatments might provide quick results, but the risks often outweigh the benefits, especially in a place like Oregon, where our natural environment is one of our greatest assets.
Sloan’s Home Solutions: Your Partner in Moss Control
At Sloan’s Home Solutions, we include moss treatment as part of every gutter cleaning service(as long as your roof has a walkable pitch). We believe in using methods that are safe, effective, and environmentally friendly. Our team is experienced in treating moss on all types of roofs, ensuring your home remains protected year-round.
Schedule Your Gutter Cleaning and Moss Treatment Today
Don’t wait until moss has taken over your roof. Regular treatment is key to maintaining the integrity of your roof and avoiding costly repairs. Visit our website today www.sloanshomesolutions.com to schedule your moss treatment and gutter cleaning service, or give us a call to speak with one of our friendly representatives. Let Sloan’s Home Solutions take care of the moss, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is in good hands.
By choosing Sloan’s Home Solutions, you’re opting for a safe, effective, and environmentally conscious approach to moss treatment. Remember, in Oregon, moss treatment isn’t just a one-time task; it’s a yearly necessity. We’re here to help you keep your home safe and beautiful, season after season.