Why ignoring your roof could cost you thousands
A new roof costs thousands. Problems can begin to arise from just a small patch of moss. Read on to find out why ignoring your roof can be an expensive mistake.
What problems can moss cause?
Most people acknowledge that moss is unsightly, but few people understand the real damage that it can cause. From the early forms of moss to the big lumps often spotted on old roofs, each can pose a threat.
1) Extra weight and moisture can lead to rot – Moss keeps tiles wet for prolonged periods. Its sponge like nature absorbs and stores water. This increases the weight of the roof. It also keeps the roof wetter for longer. Extra moisture can cause structural damage if left unattended over a long period of time. Wood on the frame may start to rot – leading to rotten battens. The extra weight on the roof can also cause fragile tiles to crack exposing the felt to the elements.
2) Cracked tiles and loose pointing - As the moss takes hold in cracks and gaps between the tiles it grows to fill up any vacant space. During the winter when the moss is full of moisture, the frozen temperatures overnight cause the moss to freeze. This causes the moss to expand. Over time this pushes the tiles further and further apart. If left untreated this can cause tiles to crack, to be pushed out of place or pointing in the valley or ridge to become loose.
3) Blocked gutters and downpipes – Birds love pecking the moss on the roof. This either end up on the floor or it’s caught by the guttering. Blocked gutters stop the flow of rainwater, causing leading to them overflowing. The same can happen if the downpipes become blocked. The only way to keep the gutters clear is to remove the moss from the roof.
How does Lincolnshire’s weather help moss grow?
Lincolnshire is renowned for damp and cloudy conditions – making it a breading ground for moss. Moss grows quickly on roofs, on drives and any other hard surface it can cling to! Areas such as Birchwood in Lincoln and Woodhall Spa are particularly prone to moss growth. Extend the life of your roof by acting quickly before the moss takes hold.
Cost of doing nothing vs cost of cleaning
It’s cheap to do nothing... or is it? Your average roof clean sets you back in the region of £1200. It’s not cheap. But how much does a new roof cost? You will certainly be looking at 10x the amount of this on certain properties. One thing that is even cheaper than getting a roof cleaned is maintaining a new one. We o\er packages that keep new roofs looking new. This starts from £180 every 18- 24months. It’s the perfect way to prolong the life your roof. Marley – the rooftile company – recommend a twice-yearly inspection of your roof. We can handle all of this for you; with our maintenance package we can ensure you extend the life of your roof.
Why soft wash?
Softwashing is a popular method for roof cleaning in Lincolnshire. It is the best way to ensure maximum roof moss removal but in a delicate way. By getting to the root of the problem without
hundreds of litres of high-pressure water it is the proper way to extend the life of your roof. All cleans are done carefully by hand with a chemical applied after to kill any biological growth. It’s the industry recommended and safest way to guarantee results.
Want a roof that lasts longer and costs less in the long run? Call us now on 01522 275200 or book a quote online.