Why North West roofs grow moss
Moss likes damp, shade and a rough surface. Concrete tiles, north-facing slopes and overhanging trees give it all three, and our wet climate does the rest.
How moss gets into the gutter
Birds pull it up looking for insects, frost loosens it and heavy rain washes it down. Clumps roll into the gutter, soak up water and settle over the outlet.
Why moss is worse than leaves
Leaves dry out and blow about. Moss holds water like a sponge, so it is heavy, it stays wet all year and it quickly turns to silt that plants root in.
What you can do
- Have the gutters cleared once the worst of the moss has come down, usually late winter
- Cut back overhanging branches to let light and air onto the roof
- Have heavy moss removed from the roof by hand rather than pressure washed, which can damage tiles
- Ask for gutters to be checked more often if the roof is heavily covered
Will gutter guards stop it?
Guards keep leaves out but fine moss and silt still get through or sit on top. They reduce cleaning but do not replace it.
Need a hand?
We clean and repair gutters, fascias and soffits across Manchester and the North West. Ask for a free fixed quote or see our gutter cleaning services and the areas we cover.
