Roof Care Systems

Mosses, lichens and algae are some of the earliest forms of life on this planet, preceding mankind by millions of years. They have remained relatively unchanged during this period of time and range from simple single-celled algae to the somewhat more complex mosses. These growths cause several problems. They are living organisms which only require moisture, light and minute quantities of mineral salts to grow, however, they can grow on virtually any roofing material or surface. Their root systems have the ability to bore into solid granite up to 12mm. Therefore, once established on tiles, they allow the passage of water into the substrate which gives rise to frost attack and shaling of tiles. These growths excrete acids, mainly oxalic, which attack the alkalinity of materials used, further weakening the tiles and bleaching the colour out. Mosses will grow up under the laps and cause capillary attraction of rain water resulting in roof leaks. When the mosses become large they are dislodged by heavy downpours of rain, resulting in the additional maintenance problem of blocked gutters.

Heavy moss contamination when soaked by rain will considerably increase the weight load on a roof. Once established these colonies lead to the rapid deterioration and breakdown of roofing materials eventually necessitating costly replacement.