Moss on residential rooftops

Discussion in 'HortForum' started by mrjones321, Sep 27, 2007.

  1. mrjones321

    mrjones321 Member

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    I am looking to buy or make an eco friendly product that would kill/inhibit future growth of moss+algae on residential rooftops. Mainly ashphault and concrete tile rooftops. I have purchased Zinc Sulfate and used it. I havent seen the results of the moss being killed right away. So I am looking for a mixture that I can make or maybe a ready made product that works right away. Any suggestions.?

    I am in the home maintenance industry thus the need for this product ongoing.

    thanks in advance. Tom
     
  2. mrjones321

    mrjones321 Member

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    I spoke with a company out of the US and I was told to put bleach on the rooftop which isnt exactly environmentally friendly. I also know that bleach is slippery and would put us at risk of slipping on the rooftop when applying. Any info or anyone who could direct me somewhere is very much appreciated. Thank you
     
  3. chimera

    chimera Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    Have heard "Sunlight " dish soap along a roof peak works, Shell Busey, really slippery. Usually the peaked roofs have a zinc strip placed near the peak. Heard of a 10-20% bleach solution sprayed on being effective. Maybe you're more concerned with a flat roof.
     
  4. mrjones321

    mrjones321 Member

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    I appreciate your reply. I have heard about the zinc strips. Tonight I have spent probably 3 hours so far searching the net and have found a few companies in the states however I dont think their product can be shipped across the border. I am sending out emails.

    My concern with the moss/algae is more for tile rooftops as they get super slippery with algae when wet. Our business requires us cleaning gutters and now is the time of year. I am hoping we can either formulate a product or we can purchase a product that will kill the algae/moss. I have been on tile rooftops that have so much moss that the gutters get overfilled with moss not debris ie leaves. Thus the hope of finding a solution. Ideally eco friendly. I am stumped as to where to start though when it comes to researching though say thru UBC with the science department. If anyone knows of anyone that would be a great contact there I would be eternally greatfull. Thank you
     
  5. chimera

    chimera Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    Have seen 25' x 3" zinc strips at the hardware stores, a copper wire can be used also i think. Fastened under the ridge cap, not sure how this would be done with tile. Maybe a tile supplier would know. Zinc strips get soft and worn from the rain, then can be loosened with the winds. Probably good for 10-15 years though. Working on a wet roof sounds pretty risky.
     
    Last edited: Sep 27, 2007
  6. mrjones321

    mrjones321 Member

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    I really appreciate your help chimera. I have worked with the zinc strips but it only tends to work a few feet down from the strips so it doesnt cover the entire rooftop. What I am thinking is there must be a spray that can be sprayed yearly that will control the moss/algae from growing. I dont believe in our climate there is a product that will last for long periods of time given our rain. With that being said there must be something that will last say for a year though. I would love to chat with a biologist that knows how to combine certain metals(zinc/copper, safe herbicides together)

    Again I appreciate all your help
     
  7. chimera

    chimera Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    You're welcome, not experienced with tile, maybe a sealer. Bussey claimed the dish detergent worked, but haven't tried it.
     
    Last edited: Sep 27, 2007
  8. mrjones321

    mrjones321 Member

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    I have read that bleach on rooftops work. I am reposting this so my topic is still close to the top of the list so people may answer. Thank you
     

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