How to Clean Moss on Spanish Roof Tiles

Spanish tile is prone to moss growth

Clay tile roofing dates back to 10,000 B.C. Ancient Babylonians, Chinese, Romans and Egyptians all used it. The Spanish took a special interest in the use and production of clay roofing tiles. Aesthetically pleasing and durable at the same time, Spanish roof tiles require little maintenance once installed. However, their organic nature does leave them prone to moss growth, which requires cleaning to prevent moisture damage to the tile roof system.

Things You'll Need

• Sturdy ladder
• Shoes with good treads
• Work gloves
• Dust mask
• Wire brush
• Stiff broom

Instructions

1. Begin the cleaning process after a few warm, dry days. Moss has less clinging power under these conditions, and will be easier to remove. In most cases, it will simply pull right off.

2. Consider safety prior to cleaning the moss from the Spanish roof tiles. A sturdy ladder and pair of shoes with a good treads are important to prevent falls. Wear work gloves to keep your hands moss free, and a dust mask to keep the moss dust out of your lungs.

3. Set the ladder against the house on level ground. Ask a helper to hold the ladder. Climb up the ladder to the area of moss growth on the Spanish roof tiles.

4. Brush the moss from the roof tiles using a wire brush. Work from the bottom of the roof up, so that you have good footing as you work your way up. You will notice much of the moss flaking away as you brush.

5. Remove the loosened moss from the Spanish tile using a stiff broom. Simply sweep the moss off the roof and onto the ground. Continue the process until you have removed all of the moss.

Tips & Warnings

• If you must walk on the Spanish tile roof, refrain from walking on the top edges of the tile. Instead, walk so that each foot lands within the bottom 3 inches of tile.

• Do not walk on the roof unless absolutely necessary. Moss can be slippery. Work from the ladder instead.

References

• MCA: History of Clay Tile
• Portland Moss Removal: Portland Oregon Roof Moss Removal from concrete tile roof

Resources

• Fix-A-Roof: Walking on a Tile Roof