Moss is a beautiful and intriguing plant that grows naturally on trees and rocks. While it is typically found in nature, it can also grow on your shingle roof. And in this case, it would be a nuisance due to the damages it would cause. That's why it's important to keep an eye out for it and update your residential roof contractor accordingly. Below are three risks of ignoring moss growth and why you should hire a roofing contractor to clear it. 

1. Cause Granule Loss

As moss grows, it spreads its tiny roots through your shingles' top protective layer. This leads to granule loss which makes your roof vulnerable to UV damage. And failure to clear it would result in extensive damage to your shingles' asphalt layer. Eventually, rainwater would soak through the shingles and reach your sheathing.

To keep your roof's top protective layer intact, you should engage your roof contractor concerning your roof's condition and let them take precautions before it's too late. Clearing the moss before it sets root in your shingles can prevent this problem from spiraling out of control.

2. Hold Moisture Against Your Roof

Since moss is a wet vegetative cover, allowing it to grow on your roof holds water against your roof's surface, and this can cause shingles to rot. This would cause devastating roof damage because the shingles would begin to buckle and warp, compromising the seamless overlap that protects your sheathing from rainwater.

The excess moisture can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which would damage your shingles even further. The resulting premature roof degradation would force you to push roof replacement forward. Thankfully, you can prevent such severe damage by asking your roof contractor to clear the moss off your roofing system.

3. Damage Your Gutter System

Since moss grows so aggressively, it can quickly fill up your gutters and block the downspout, leading to rainwater overflowing onto your foundation. What's more, the weight of moss can structurally damage your gutter system, forcing you to invest in a complete overhaul. That's why, as soon as you notice the smallest patch of moss on your roof, you should call your roof contractor immediately and let them clear the vegetative cover off your rooftop.

If you have moss growing on your residential roof, you should take action to remove it before it causes severe damage. Your residential roof contractor will know how to clear the vegetative cover without damaging your shingles. 

Contact a local roofing contractor to learn more.