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If accumulations of algae or moss are heavy, a part of it should wash off the roof surface immediately with the stream from the garden hose. Using a brush or broom with medium-stiff bristles you can attempt brushing off algae and moss, but don't scrub too hard. You don't want to brush off the mineral granules from the shingles.

If algae, moss or heavy stains persist on your roof surface after rinsing, let the roof dry, and then spray on the bleach solution again. Again wait for 30 minutes and rinse with a hose. Don't worry if some staining remains after this second rinse. Exposure to rain and sunlight should wash it off over time.

Most commonly algae and moss grow on roof surfaces that are shaded and remain humid. Cutting off tree branches that overhang the roof and block sunlight will surely help keeping your roof algae and moss free. Keep the roof surface clean by blowing off leaves and fallen branches during seasonal maintenance.

Long-term stain prevention can be assured by installing zinc or copper strips under the cap shingles, leaving about 6 cm of the surface exposed at roof peaks, along hips, and under the first course of shingles at the base of dormers. Copper and zinc are sacrificial metals that shed tiny fragments of their surface with each rainfall. The metals coat the roof and ban organic growth for many years.

>>> Picture 1 (left): The moss doesn’t grow close to copper metal flashing

>>> Picture 2 (top right): The red lines indicate where to install zinc or copper strips to prevent algae and moss growth.

>>> Picture 3 (top bottom): Ridge with Armourvent Multi and zinc moss repellent tape

Following these maintenance tips can help you enjoy your attractive roof. They can also help extend your roof’s service life, which is important whether you plan to stay in your home or sell it in the future.

More tips on the protection of your roof can be found in our blogs.

Good luck!

A second advantage is using natural light in your rooms and lowering the bills for electricity. Installing a vented skylight solves the problem of insufficient ventilation and lets the air move more freely and naturally, creating a fresher home aroma.  The ideal place to install a skylight is a kitchen, bathroom or bedroom. This ventilation advantage also means saving electricity, as there is no need for you to use a kitchen or a bathroom fan.

Privacy can be another advantage as well. Often houses are located side by side and opening a window opposite to another window is not always convenient. Roof windows can bring natural light to your bathroom or bedroom, without sacrificing your privacy. 

Types of skylights and roof windows

There are three basic types of skylights: fixed skylights, venting skylights, and tubular skylights (light tubes). A fourth variety, roof windows, is a type of venting skylight used where circumstances make it practical. Roof windows are bigger with the same orientation as the surrounding roof. They are typically used on roofs where the roof slope is more vertical.