At first glance, roof moss seems charming, making you think you’ve wandered off into the coveted fairy tale world. But, you are not in a fantasy, and roof moss benefits stop at its picturesque aesthetics.
If left unchecked, it causes irreparable damage to your roof and threatens the structural integrity of your home. And since this is a threat all of us rather not deal with, you need to remain proactive with roof moss treatment.
If you are already removing moss with scarifying methods such as a rake, you are on the right path. However, roof moss will still grow back without permanent solutions such as roof moss killers.
This review takes you through the ten best roof moss killers and lets you in on everything you may need to know before purchasing this product.
10 Best Roof Moss Killer Reviews
1. Wet and Forget 10587 1 Gallon Moss, Mold, and Mildew Stain Remover
It’s not easy to get a product that brings together all the desirable characteristics of a moss killer. But, the Wet and Forget 10587 moss killer combines all these, earning its editor’s pick crown.
It’s a non-acidic, non-caustic, and non-bleach option, making it relatively safe. You won’t have to worry about that burning feeling if it splashes on the skin while spraying. And your roof is safe from discoloring and corroding.
Like its name, you only need to get your roof and forget. It’s a one-step process moss killer where you notice that the moss is gone after a short while. Most of us dislike the scrubbing and rinsing that may follow moss killer application.
With this product, scrubbing and rinsing will be past tense, saving plenty of time and energy. You will also enjoy that this product has fantastic coverage of about 750-2250 sq. ft.
The only downside of this product is that it’s expensive. However, unless you are on quite a tight budget, I believe that quality considerations should always exceed price considerations.
Pros
- Easy and safe to use
- Non-acidic, non-caustic option
- You don’t need to scrub or rinse after application
- Safe for both outdoor and indoor surfaces
- Fantastic coverage
Cons
- Expensive
2. Wet & Forget Roof and Siding Cleaner
The ready-to-use Wet & Forget Roof and Siding Cleaner is our second-best pick. You don’t need to mix it with water as it is readily mixed. It’s also bleach-free and non-acidic, allowing you to apply it on the roof without fear of corroding any surfaces.
And if you are worried about getting onto the roof to apply this moss killer, don’t fret. The product comes with an extreme reach hose end that can reach up to 30 ft. So you can take your ladders back to the storage rooms.
Like its other Wet and Forget family members, you only need to apply it on your roof and forget. Your moss will eventually die, leaving you with a clean roof. But, I like to warn my readers. If you expect moss to disappear overnight after applying this product, then don’t buy it.
My favorite part? It has an unlimited shelf life and the capability of keeping moss off your roof for about a year. So, you don’t have to worry about any remainders of the product as you can easily use them the next time roof moss creeps onto your roof. The not so favorite aspect is that its price is a bit on the higher side. But, remember, quality over price!
Pros
- Ready to use with an extreme reach hose end
- Bleach free and non-acidic
- Unlimited shelf life
- It keeps roof moss off for a year
- Great coverage of up to 2000 sq. ft
Cons
- Moss may take a longer time before it disappears
- The price is more on the higher side
3. 303 Rubber Roof Cleaner
If you have roof moss and need a budget-friendly, potent yet environmentally friendly product, then the 303 Rubber Roof Cleaner was manufactured with you in mind.
The product is biodegradable, meaning its residue won’t pollute the environment after cleaning your roof. Its Eco-friendly nature also makes it safe to use near solar panels, as it won’t harm them.
This product is also non-abrasive, meaning you don’t have to worry about ending up with a scratched roof. Its long shelf life of up to two years allows you to use this product for different seasons without fear of expiration dates.
You may dislike that this product is not ready to use, requiring you first to dilute it. Another downside is that the effective working of this product requires you to scrub the roof. You will also need to rinse off the roof after application. And we all know how time-consuming it can get.
Pros
- Eco-friendly product
- Long shelf life
- Non-abrasive
- Cleans and dissolves dirt
Cons
- You will need to scrub and rinse the roof
- Not ready to use
4. 30 SECONDS Outdoor Cleaner
How about a product that would kill your moss within the shortest time? Not 30 seconds per se, but your roof moss would be gone by the end of the day. With the 30 seconds outdoor cleaner, you get this and so much more.
If you love a time-saving product, then this is it. It uses the spray and walks away criteria. Your roof moss will all be dead within a fairly short time. And you don’t have to think about scrubbing or scrapping off the moss after it’s dead. With this product, all the traces of the dead moss vanish on their own.
But don’t forget that you will need to rinse off the product. Most users have complained that you may need to use a lot of water to rinse. Frustrating, right? But it’s all worth the hustle when you have a gleaming roof within no time after roof moss killer application.
The cherry on top of the cake? This product is quite budget-friendly. Its evidence that not all highly effective products have to be expensive.
Pros
- Enjoy immediate results
- Spray and walk away
- No need for scrubbing or scraping
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- You will need to rinse off the product from the roof
5. Lilly Miller Moss Out Lawn Granules
We all love a ‘lazy’ liquid roof moss killer approach. But faced with a potent, budget-friendly granular killer like the Lilly Miller Moss Out, you wouldn’t resist.
With 32 percent ferrous sulfate monohydrate and 68 percent calcium carbonate, this product will instantly kill your moss. You will also enjoy a large area coverage of up to 5000 sq. ft. The price is also quite friendly, making this granular product the epitome of great value.
However, its granular nature may be painful, especially when spreading the granules. I recommend using a seed spreader to spread the granules evenly on your roof moss.
The product may also burn when it contacts your skin. Unfortunately, there are no warnings on the product packaging. So to be on the safe side, ensure you have a good eye and skin protection.
Pros
- Quick results
- Large area coverage of up to 5000 sq. ft.
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- It may be slightly difficult to spread the granules
- It may burn when it comes into contact with skin
6. Scotts MossEx 3-in-1 Ready-Spray
Do you fancy versatile, ready-to-use liquid moss killers? If yes, you need to get the Scotts MossEx 3 in 1 Ready Spray. This product can work well on various surfaces within your property, such as the lawn, patio, and, most importantly, your roof.
Thanks to its patented formula, you will also be quite impressed as it kills moss, algae, and lichens within hours. Better still, you don’t have to worry about diluting the solution as it is ready to use.
You will only need to attach an outdoor garden hose, turn on the water, and be ready for application. If the solution drips down your walls, you don’t have to worry about stains as this product doesn’t stain.
Most users have complained that the sprayer doesn’t work well on the downside. But, hey, you can always be flexible and use the garden hose to steer your roof clear of moss.
Pros
- Ready to use
- Fast moss killer
- Versatile 3 in 1 product
- It doesn’t leave stains
Cons
- The sprayer doesn’t work well
7. Scotts MossEx Easy-To-Use Shaker Jug
When you test and review many products in the market, you quickly learn that a high price tag does not always equal good quality. And the Scotts MossEx is a testament to this.
It has a low price tag yet remains potent. You will also not need to dilute the granules. The wetness on your roof moss will allow the granules to spread and kill the moss within no time.
The product also comes with a convenient shaker jug that easily spreads the granules over your roof. You may dislike that its granular nature only makes it appropriate for spot-treating moss.
So, if your roof has larger patches, it may be challenging to use and achieve complete effectiveness.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Fast, effective results
- Convenient shaker jug
- Doesn’t require dilution
Cons
- Better suited for spot treatment
8. SmartSeal Moss Clear
I received a complaint that we neglect commercial use buyers a while back. So, If you are looking for the best commercial roof moss killer, then our top pick is the SmartSeal Moss Clear. A little of the product goes a long way, saving you costs if you are a commercial user.
It is also quite effective as you can expect to see your roofs glowing and moss-free within 24 hours after application. It’s also entirely biodegradable calming your worries about bleaching surfaces and polluting the environment.
And because I know how we all dislike scrubbing and high-pressure washing, I was sure to select a product that would not need these. You only have to spray the diluted mixture on the moss and wait for it to work.
However, you may find it challenging that the product will only work 100 percent if you keep the area dry. If it rains, then your efforts may go down the drain.
Pros
- A little product goes a long way
- Quick and effective results
- Eco friendly
- No need for scrubbing and high-pressure washing
Cons
- You have to keep the area dry until all moss dies
9. Lilly Miller Moss Out For Roofs And Structures
If you are a fan of granular roof moss killers, then Lilly Miller Moss Out For Roofs And Structures, 6lb, is your perfect find. It’s easy to use and spread product-which is not common among granular products.
You only need to sprinkle and hand spread on a moss-infested area and wait for the product to work its magic. The greatest thing is that it can work with either wet or dry applications.
After application, allow the moss to disappear completely between 1-3 weeks. This may seem like a long time to wait, but a product that works slowly but surely is better than one that doesn’t. With this product, you will also enjoy a broad coverage of up to 6000 sq. ft.
Pros
- Easy to spread and prevents moss regrowth
- Effective with either wet or dry application
- Large coverage of up to 6000 sq. ft.
Cons
- Moss may take longer to disappear- between 1-3 weeks
10. Wet & Forget No Scrub Outdoor Cleaner
‘Wet and forget-again?’ That thought has probably crossed your mind. But, you can’t easily overlook a product from a reputable brand. This part of the Wet & Forget family is one of the safest options you’ll find in the market. It’s safe to use on any outdoor or indoor surface.
You’ll also be pleased with its bleach-free, biodegradable characteristics preventing the product from bleaching and keeping it in top condition. Its unlimited shelf life will allow you to safely store the product for your next use.
It’s also quite convenient with its ready-to-use formula, saving you a lot of time that you could have used on diluting the product. Still, you’ll love that there is no need for scrubbing and rinsing with this product for time-saving. The only thing that you may dislike is that the product may leave some stains on the roof.
Pros
- Safe and Eco-friendly
- Bleach free
- Unlimited shelf life
- Ready to use
- No need for scrubbing and rinsing
Cons
- Leaves some stains on the roof
What is Moss?
As always on this site, we never want to leave anyone behind. So we start with the basics-what is moss? Scientifically, moss is a non-vascular plant in the Bryophyta group of Kingdom Plantae.
A simpler definition is that moss is a tiny flowerless and rootless plant. The plant does not grow tall and does well in damp places as it lacks roots, xylem, and phloem, which enable other plants to grow tall and away from water and damp locations.
Instead of growing tall, moss grows low and spreads on flat surfaces. Roof moss will start as a thin green layer on and between shingles. It lifts the shingles as it spreads and grows, allowing water to seep underneath the roof. This may cause wood rot and leaks compromising the integrity of your structure.
What Causes Moss on the Roof?
Often, most homeowners whose roof moss is out of control blame themselves for its growth. And I like to let homeowners know that roof moss is not entirely their fault.
Moisture, shade, and organic debris cause moss on the roof. The more moisture and organic debris, the higher the chances of having roof moss.
Well-shaded roofs are also a major cause of moss the roof. The shade prevents moisture evaporation providing an appropriate environment for roof moss growth.
Notably, moss is likely to grow in areas of your roof which do not receive direct sunlight. You will find that your roof’s north-facing areas have more moss than the other areas, as they are often damp due to sunlight deprivation.
How does Moss Affect your Roof?
‘What’s wrong with a little moss on my roof? It’s giving my home that visually pleasing look.’ If your line of thought falls in these categories, it’s about time you learned how moss affects your roof. As I mentioned earlier, moss left unchecked damages and threatened the structural integrity of your roof. How?
Moss strips your shingles off their protective oils, leaving them susceptible to corrosion and damage. If your roof has moss, it will likely warp and crack in the sun. As a result, you may find that its lifespan is shortened by half. Moss will also ruin your shingles by damaging their outer protective layer.
Its absorbent nature causes it to suck up moisture like a sponge. This provides the optimal environment for its growth and spread on your roof, eventually damaging the outer protective layer.
Moss will also lift and loosen your roof shingles as it grows in the cracks between them. Soon after, the moisture buildup from the absorbent moss will cause wood rot.
If you fail to discover this problem early on, your roof may start leaking, and you will have to conduct extensive and expensive repairs to get your home back in shape.
And because it doesn’t hurt to step away from the roof, you need to know that roof moss can attract pests. The moisture buildup provides a habitable environment for mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and fireflies.
Why do I Need a Roof Moss Killer?
With all the adverse consequences of roof moss, you are better off with a roof moss killer. But, I know it’s not easy to invest in something you probably haven’t invested in before. So, why do you need a roof moss killer?
Have you ever had to deal with a leaky roof? If you have, then you know how infuriating it can get. And since you may not want to experience this again, you should get a roof moss killer. It will keep your roof moss free for some time, protecting the shingles and the entire roof from damage that may cause leakage.
A moss-covered roof looks like it’s straight from a fairy tale-its aesthetically pleasing. So, I imagine that you may want your roof to look beautiful and new after removing the moss. Using a roof moss killer not only removes and kills the moss but also leaves your roof with its original shine and visual appeal.
You may also want to get a roof moss killer to avoid the massive costs and resources associated with a roof replacement. If left unchecked, moss can cause irreparable damage to your roof. But a roof moss killer will help you to de-moss your roof early on before your roof reaches the point of no return.
Lastly, a roof moss killer will protect you and your loved ones from moss-related allergic reactions. Moss releases toxic compounds into the air, which may cause allergies.
How to Choose the Best Roof Moss Killer
Now that you understand the basics and are sure you need to get a roof moss killer, how do you choose the best product? You will need to consider these factors to select the best roof moss killer.
Type of Moss Killer
Before buying a roof moss killer, you should know the type you want to purchase, its application methods, benefits, and limitations. Generally, roof moss killers come in two types-powdered or liquid-based.
Powdered moss killers are applied through sprinkling on the roof. Once it rains, the powder mixes with the rainwater and runs down towards the eaves. The moss should be dead after about a week.
On the other hand, liquid moss killers come in a container that you can attach to a garden hose. The liquid then blends in as you spray the water onto the roof.
I find powder moss killers quite troublesome and recommend using liquid-based products.
- First, you run the risk of the powder blowing off before the rain with powdered products. In such cases, your efforts and resources will go to waste.
- Secondly, you will have to be extra careful when dispensing the granules on your roof to ensure even distribution with these products.
Without even distributing the powder, you risk leaving some of the most alive, again rendering your moss-killing efforts useless. This challenge will be absent with a liquid moss killer as you can use the hose to spray the product evenly on the roof.
There is also a higher probability of leaving white streaks on your roof shingles if you use powdered products. Finally, if you are into your roof looking as good as new, then this is a no go zone.
The Purpose of the Product
I had had so many instances when people went ahead and bought the readily available moss killer without considering its purpose. Before purchasing, you need to look at the product’s label to determine if it’s meant for roofs, lawns, or patios.
Moss killers made specifically for other places such as the lawns and patios may not be effective for your roof. So, it’s always good to confirm where the specific product is most appropriate.
The Chemical Content
You will also need to consider the chemical content of the roof moss killer you intend to purchase. I recommend getting a roof moss killer with a neutral pH.
You can get this information from the product packaging. If purchasing online, check the product description. Contact the manufacturer if the information is missing (which would be rare).
Why check the chemical content? Some roof moss killers may have high chemical content that can corrode your roof shingles. And you don’t want to end up with corroded roof shingles and repair/replacement costs, all in the name of killing roof moss.
High chemical content in the product may also kill some of the living matter in your home, which may be against your wishes. So, to be safe, ensure that you thoroughly check the chemical content of the product before purchase.
Brand and Budget
We are often drawn to products manufactured by reputable brands. That way, we are at least sure of purchasing a quality product. This attitude should also apply when getting a roof moss killer.
But, don’t break the bank to get a product from a reputable company. You will need to consider your budget and purchase a product within that budget.
Remember, higher prices don’t always equal a reputable product. However, you can get a budget-friendly yet quality roof moss killer such as the Scotts MossEx Easy-To-Use Shaker Jug, 4.59 lb.
Other Ways to Remove Moss from the Roof
I would hope that up to this point, I have convinced every reader to use roof moss killers. But variety is the spice of life, and we cannot all agree on one method of removing and killing moss.
So, if you are still hesitant about roof moss killers, you may be wondering, are there other ways to remove moss from the roof? The good news is there are other ways, and plenty of them, for that matter.
Have a look
Manual Moss Removal
How would you feel about hand-cleaning to remove roof moss? I don’t know about you, but I believe a little manual labor never hurt anyone.
You can manually get rid of roof moss using rakes, brushes, or garden hoses. You will need to have a ladder to access the roof. If you are afraid of heights, ensure that you get help.
When manually removing moss, you need to ensure that you do not damage the roof shingles. Too much or hard scrapping using your rake or brush can cause damage.
You must know that this method does not eliminate moss spores and clusters. So, your roof will soon have another layer of mold growing. I always recommend that those using this method constantly check up on their roofs to get rid of the moss.
Use Homemade Moss Removal Recipes
If you are looking for a cheap but chemical-based alternative, then the homemade moss removal recipes are your best bet. One of the simplest recipes is mixing two gallons of water with approximately 8 ounces of dawn ultra-soap.
Proceed to put this mixture in your garden sprayer and spray on the roof moss-infested area. Allow about 20 minutes for the mixture to kill the moss, then rinse off your roof with clean water.
The second simplest is using vinegar and water in a garden sprayer. After spraying the roof, wait for about half an hour, confirm that all moss is dead, rinse off the roof, and then remove the dead moss.
A more complex homemade recipe involves powdered oxygen bleach and water. Mix a pound of powdered oxygen bleach with two gallons of water, pour it into your garden hose, and spray the roof.
Wait for about 20-30 minutes for the product to work, then rinse the roof and rid it of the dead moss. You can also use chlorine bleach and water.
Mix two cups of diluted chlorine bleach with two gallons of water and put the mixture in your garden hose. Spray on roof moss-infested area, allow twenty minutes, and rinse with plain water. When using this mixture, it’s important to have gloves on to protect your hands.
Note: Use diluted chlorine bleach as concentrated bleach may corrode shingles.
How to Prevent Moss from Growing on Roofs in the Future
The ultimate goal is to rid your roof of the nuisance that is moss permanently. After all, no one wants to stay on and off the ladder for seasons on end, getting rid of moss. So, how do you prevent moss from growing on roofs in the future?
We need to deal with the root cause of moss-moisture. Sunshine is the most natural way of dealing with moisture and consequently preventing moss from growing on roofs in the future.
If your roof moisture comes from the shade, trim the branches overhanging your roof to let the sunshine in and ruin the perfect growth atmosphere for moss.
You also need to deal with the debris. Ensure that you keep your gutters free from debris such as leaves, branches, and seedpods, as they can collect moisture and encourage moss buildup.
I also want to let you in on an open secret about a long-term solution. You can use zinc/copper strips or zinc-coated metal flashing strips. Copper and zinc are toxic to moss and algae. If you are on a tight budget, consider using zinc as it is less cheap.
However, if you don’t mind, get copper strips as copper is the more toxic of the two strips. Attach strips below the roof peak or ridge caps using nails or screws.
During rainy seasons, water will flow over these strips, leaking out moss retardant zinc/copper particles. These particles attach to your roof shingles and tiles and stop new moss from forming.
If the worst comes to the worst, you can look into hiring a professional roof cleaning service to remove algae. Professional cleaners will usually have specialized equipment to kill moss down to the root environmentally friendly.
Moss Killer for Roofs FAQs
Should you Remove Moss from the Roof?
Yes. You should remove moss from the roof. Moss, even the smallest patch is capable of causing irreparable damage to your roof. It slowly creeps underneath the shingles, lifting them, which can lead to wood rot and eventually roof leaks. Moss from the roof can also cause allergic reactions as it releases toxic compounds in the air.
What is the Most Effective Roof Moss Killer?
The most effective roof moss killer reviewed is the Wet and Forget 10587 1 Gallon Moss, Mold, and Mildew Stain Remover. It’s easy and safe to use and kills moss within 24 hours after application.
What is the Best Way to Get Rid of Moss on a Roof?
You can use the best roof moss killers to get rid of moss on a roof. But, the best and more long-lasting way to get rid of moss on a roof is using zinc or copper strips. Copper and zinc are toxic to moss and algae. When their particles leak onto roof shingles, the environment becomes inhabitable for moss, which helps remove roof moss.
When should I Put Moss Killer on my Roof?
The best time to put moss killer on your roof is when it is actively growing. Since moisture is the main ingredient for moss growth, it is likely to actively grow when the rain falls, during moderate winters, or in early spring.
Will Bleach Damaged Shingles?
Concentrated bleach may damage shingles by causing corrosion. However, if you use diluted bleach, your roof shingles are safe. Ensure that you apply the 50-50 bleach mixture strategy when using bleach on your roof to avoid damage or discoloration.
What is the Best Moss Killer for Roofs
You’ve seen so many roof moss killers to choose from. You now have an idea of the best roof moss killer to get depending on your preferred type, the coverage area, safety, ease of use, your budget, and above all potency of the product.
After considering all these factors, the Wet and Forget 10587 1 Gallon Moss, Mold and Mildew Stain Remover gets the editor’s pick crown. This product is safe and easy to use, covers a large area, is manufactured by a reputable brand, and works fast and effectively to kill roof moss.
You may find it a bit expensive, but you can get a budget-friendly option such as the Scotts MossEx Easy-To-Use Shaker Jug, 4.59 lb. If you are still confused, rely on our top picks for every category, and you’ll get the best product.