How to Clean Moss Off Your Roof

March 28, 2025

If you've noticed green patches or fuzzy growth spreading across your shingles, you're likely dealing with moss. While it might seem harmless at first, moss can cause real damage to your roof over time—especially in Connecticut’s moist, shaded environments. At Bartlett Contracting, LLC, we know how important it is to maintain your roof's health, and moss removal is a key part of that upkeep.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to safely clean moss off your roof and help prevent it from coming back.

Why Moss Is a Problem

Moss retains moisture like a sponge. When it grows on your roof, it traps water against the shingles, which can lead to:

Shingle deterioration

Roof leaks

Wood rot underneath the shingles

Reduced roof lifespan

The longer moss sits on your roof, the more damage it can cause—especially during freeze-thaw cycles where trapped moisture expands and contracts.

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Moss

1. Safety First
Before doing anything, make sure you have proper safety equipment. Use a stable ladder, wear slip-resistant shoes, and never attempt roof cleaning on a wet or windy day.

2. Gently Remove Moss by Hand or Brush
Use a soft-bristled brush or broom to gently scrape moss off the surface. Work from the top down to avoid lifting shingles. Never use a pressure washer—it can strip away granules and damage your roofing material.

3. Apply a Moss-Cleaning Solution
You can purchase a commercial moss killer or make your own using equal parts water and white vinegar or bleach (be cautious with bleach around plants and pets). Spray the solution on the affected areas and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

4. Rinse Thoroughly
Using a garden hose with gentle water pressure, rinse the area thoroughly to remove dead moss and cleaning residue.

5. Clean Your Gutters
While you’re up there, make sure your gutters are clear. Blocked gutters can worsen moss problems by creating standing water near your roofline.

Preventing Moss from Coming Back

Once your roof is clean, take a few proactive steps to keep moss away:

Trim overhanging tree branches to reduce shade and improve airflow.

Keep gutters clean and ensure proper drainage.

Install zinc or copper strips near the roof ridge—rainwater carries trace amounts of metal down the roof, which helps inhibit moss growth.

Let the Pros Handle It

While DIY moss removal is possible, it’s not for everyone. Working on your roof can be dangerous, and using the wrong tools or chemicals can lead to costly damage. That’s where Bartlett Contracting, LLC comes in. Our experienced team can safely and effectively remove moss while inspecting your roof for any signs of wear or damage.

Protect Your Roof Today

Don’t let moss quietly ruin your roof. If you're dealing with moss buildup or want to prevent it altogether, give Bartlett Contracting, LLC a call. We’ve been helping Connecticut homeowners maintain and protect their homes for over 20 years.