Dealing with Moss on Hard Surfaces

Moss on patios, paths and driveways can be slippery and unsightly. Learn how to remove it effectively, what products to use, and help stop it returning.

Hard Surface and Roof Moss Treatment

Identify the issue. Correct identification of the growth or staining is important to ensure that the correct product is used. Hard surface softwash solutions should be used to clean moss, algae and lichen.

Mosses are small, clump or mat forming non-flowering plants. They are formed of simple leaf like structures and are very slow growing.
Algae refers to a large group of different organisms. Typically they are green, slimy and lack any reasonable plant structures such as leaves, stems and roots. Algae thrive in damp, dark conditions.
Lichen can appear in many different shapes and colours. Most commonly they appear as small clumps of tiny leafless branches or flat flakes similar to peeling paint. Lichens are capable of living on virtually any surface.

Lay tarpaulin or fleece over flowerbeds, lawns and surrounding areas. Not only will this protect plants from spray drift but it will also speed up the clearing up process. If treating roofs then gutters should be covered with plastic flashing and downpipes should be blocked. Softwashing solutions are rapidly broken down in the environment and plants will recover quickly however application to non-target areas should be limited.
Scrape or brush large clumps of moss and vegetation from the surface. Although many of our softwashing solutions are capable of controlling larger clumps, they must be thoroughly drenched increasing the product usage. Not all situations will require this step to be carried out.
Dilute your softwash solution as per the guidelines on the product label for the surface area being treated.
Spray the area that you are cleaning with a steady flow ensuring that areas that are more heavily affected by moss/algae are covered thoroughly.
Once sprayed the product will remain on the surface that has been treated helping to keep the area clean for a period of time.

FAQs

Is Moss on Roof Tiles a Problem?

In general, no it is not however it can look unsightly and if it begins to block gutters or drainage points then it can begin to cause damage.

Why Does Moss Grow on Roofs?

If you have a damp, cool surface then this can be the perfect situation for moss to grow. If this area isn’t getting much sunlight then there isn’t much stopping it from growing as these are perfect conditions for moss.

How Long Will It Take For Moss and Algae to Return?

The length of time it takes for regrowth to appear will depend on the conditions. Areas in heavy shade which remain damp for long periods can begin to see some light green staining after a couple of years. In areas that are less perfect for moss and algae, regrowth can take up to 4 or 5 years. Moss is very slow growing so with the thorough clean provided by many of our softwash solutions, it can take moss in excess of 10 years to return. We would advise, however, that roofs are treated every 5 years so that they are kept on top of.

Does Water Quality Reduce the Efficiency of Moss Control Products?

The active ingredient DDAC (Didecyl Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride), which is used in most of our softwashing solutions, is not affected by water quality or hardness. Benzalkonium Chloride however (found in BAC50) when mixed with hard water, or poor quality water, is rapidly locked up ad deactivated which significantly reduces its efficiency.

What Safety Precautions Should be Taken When Applying Softwash Solutions

Our softwash solutions are very safe products if the product label is adhered to. The safety clothing providing in our safety clothing bundle would be sufficient for all application situations. People and animals should be kept away from the area while work is being carried out and until the product has dried. Extra care should be taken if you are treating an area where surface waters are nearby.