Timber shingles/shakes – moss and lichen
Listed under: timber and wood-based, timber, Roof, cladding, roof cladding, timber shingles and shakes
Cause
Insufficient cleaning
Repair
- clean roof regularly with a solution of 1 part household bleach to 4 parts water to restrict moss growth; brush on with a stiff broom or wire brush. Do not use where the water is collected for drinking.
- nail a 150 mm wide copper strip along the roof ridge; alternatively install copper ridge flashing – the copper oxide solution produced by the rain is toxic and will restrict moss growth. Check that copper is compatible with adjacent building materials such as guttering and downpipes.
- Do not waterblast as this can force water up between the tiles.
Cause
Roof remains damp due to overhanging branches
Repair
- remove overhanging branches
- clean roof regularly with a solution of 1 part household bleach to 4 parts water to restrict moss growth; brush on with a stiff broom or wire brush. Do not use where the water is collected for drinking.
- nail a 150 mm wide copper strip along the roof ridge; alternatively install copper ridge flashing – the copper oxide solution produced by the rain is toxic and will restrict moss growth. Check that copper is compatible with adjacent building materials such as guttering and downpipes.
- do not waterblast as this can force water up between the tiles.