While moss may provide a unique look to buildings, it can actually be rather destructive, due to holding moisture against structures. Over time, this may cause water damage. If you have older buildings that need to look clean and tidy, you’ll need to eliminate the moss.
What Is Moss?
Moss is actually a variety of tiny plants called bryophytes. The moss requires moisture in order to grow and reproduce and the tiny plants release spores that fasten onto rocks, walls, and roofs to start new colonies. It can be quite difficult to get rid of, so you will need some serious strategy when dealing with the moss.
How to Eliminate Moss
There are several ways to prevent moss from growing in the first place. Keep in mind that unless treated, the moss will tend to return again and again. But first, you need to remove it.
Power washing: A power washer is another option for blasting moss out of the cracks in brick and stone. A good power washer will make it simple to remove the moss.
Raking: If you’re looking at moss growth on paths and lawns, it’s a good idea to use a leaf rake to loosen and remove the pieces of moss. This will usually result in some bits being left behind, so you may wish to sweep these up for removal.
Soft Bristled Brush: A bristled scrub brush can be very useful in removing moss, particularly in the summer, when it has dried up a little. The brush may be used on more delicate surfaces, like shingles or softer siding. Simply brush at the moss to help dislodge the plants and knock them to the ground.
Prevent Moss from Growing Back
It’s difficult to remove moss and keep it away, since the spores are likely to linger. You can prevent the regrowth with one of the many products on the market. However, some people prefer to spray the area with half water and half bleach or vinegar. This can help the moss dry up and will stop it from reproducing.
To really ensure it won’t come back, you should treat the area with a biocide just before the rains come in during the fall. This will help prevent the additional moisture from encouraging growth.
Need more information on how to prevent moss growth? We have a range of products that you can use. Contact Sportsmark today to learn more.