Taking Care of the Moss Around Your Pacific Northwest Home

The Pacific Northwest is known for the rain and the resulting rich green foliage that makes the Seattle area known as Emerald City. Unfortunately, all the lush green moss isn’t always a great thing when it comes to your home’s roof. Moss will grow and collect on your home and cause damage if left untreated. Part of your spring chores will include removing the moss from your roof and around your home. You will find the tools you need to take care of the job at Greenwood Hardware.

If moss is left unchecked and allowed to grow and flourish on an asphalt roof, it can eat away the protective granular coating. It can also grow between the shingles, causing them to get loose and possibly blow away in a windstorm. You can pay to have the roof cleaned or buy a bottle of moss killer and take care of the job yourself. Technically, you would want to apply the moss killer in the fall to avoid the moss growth over winter, but you can also use it in the spring. Use a broom to sweep away the dried, brown moss.

Your gutters are also going to be prone to moss buildup. A clogged gutter will make a mess. Investing in a gutter scoop and cleaning out the gutter in the spring will keep your gutters in good shape and the water in the downspout where it belongs.

Moss loves to grow in shady areas and those pretty bushes you have planted around the house can provide the perfect environment for moss to grow on the outside walls of your home. Use a pruning saw and clippers to trim away leaves and branches from the house. A nice three-foot gap allows plenty of room for sunlight and wind to keep the area dry and hopefully prevent moss growth. If moss does grow, use a moss remover and a hose to wash it away.

If you are ready to start your spring chores, head into Greenwood Hardware today and pick up what you need to clean up around your house. Come see us in person, or contact us online today!