How to Get Rid of Roof Fungus

Algae on a roof.

Roof fungus, including moss, lichen and algae, grows on roofs throughout the United States. Roofs in areas with high rainfall and humidity are particularly susceptible. In addition to looking unsightly, roof fungus can trap water on the roof, which can lead to leaks and structural deterioration of your roof. Fortunately, you can get rid of fungus and keep it from reappearing on your roof.

Things You'll Need

• Standard bristle scrub brush
• Pole
• Ladder
• Power washer
• Copper strips

Instructions

1. Attach a standard bristle scrub brush to a pole. Many scrub brushes are designed to attach to poles and can be found at most home improvement stores.

2. Climb up onto a ladder to access the roof. Scrub the mossy areas on the roof with the scrub brush. This will scour off the moss' shallow root system. When scrubbing, position yourself on the ridge of the roof and push the scrub brush downward. Pulling the brush up toward the roof line could break the bond between shingle layers.

3. Spray the roof with a power washer. The power washer will remove lichen and algae, which do not have root systems. When spraying, position yourself securely on the roof at the ridge line. Be careful when walking on wet areas.

4. Place strips of copper, available at roofing supply stores, near the top of the roof to prevent fungus from growing there in the future. Slide one end of a copper strip under a row of shingles, leaving at least 4 inches exposed. Once it rains, the rain will wash copper molecules down onto the roof, creating a poisonous environment for fungus.

Tips & Warnings

• Fungus, particularly algae, can be very slippery when wet. When working on the roof, wear shoes with good traction, keep a low center of gravity and avoid stepping on wet fungus as much as possible.

References

• Cornell Cooperative Extension Oneida County: Removing Moss and Algae From Roofs
• University of Minnesota Extension: Moss On Roofs