Moss & Lichen on Your Wood Roof? Here’s How Florida Homeowners Should Handle It

Florida’s warm, damp climate is perfect for growing things—including moss and lichen on your roof. While these growths may look harmless or even charming at first, they’re a serious problem for wood shake and shingle roofs.

If left untreated, moss and lichen can trap moisture, rot your wood, and shorten your roof’s lifespan by years.

Here’s what Florida homeowners need to know about cleaning moss and lichen off wood roofing—and how to keep them from coming back.

Why Moss and Lichen Are a Problem on Wood Roofs

Both moss and lichen thrive in shady, humid areas, especially on north-facing roof slopes, beneath overhanging trees, or in areas with poor drainage.

Here’s why they’re bad news:

• They hold moisture against your wood shingles, speeding up rot

• They grow into the wood grain, lifting shingles and creating gaps

• They reduce ventilation, trapping humidity in the roofing system

• They stain and discolor your roof, affecting curb appeal

• They invite mold, mildew, and insect activity

In Florida, where moisture is always in the air, moss and lichen spread quickly and can turn into a roof replacement issue if ignored.

How to Safely Clean Moss and Lichen from a Wood Roof

Avoid pressure washers and harsh chemicals. Here’s a safe and effective process:

1. Inspect the Roof First

• Check for soft spots, cracked shingles, or previous water damage

• Identify which areas have the worst moss or lichen buildup

2. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush

• Gently loosen and remove surface moss or lichen

• Always brush down the slope to avoid lifting or cracking shingles

3. Apply a Roof-Safe Cleaning Solution

Use a non-toxic, biodegradable cleaner made for cedar or wood roofs. These solutions are formulated to:

• Kill moss, lichen, and algae

• Break down growth without damaging the wood

• Be safe for nearby plants, pets, and gutters

Apply with a garden sprayer or soft wash system—never a pressure washer.

4. Rinse with Low-Pressure Water

After letting the cleaner sit (follow manufacturer directions), gently rinse off residue with a low-pressure hose.

How to Prevent Moss and Lichen from Returning

After cleaning, take these steps to reduce regrowth:

• Trim overhanging trees to increase sunlight exposure and reduce moisture

• Clear roof debris like leaves and branches that hold water

• Install copper or zinc strips near ridge lines; when it rains, trace metals release ions that prevent moss and lichen

• Seal your wood shingles every few years with a breathable treatment that resists mold and moisture

• Maintain proper roof ventilation to reduce trapped humidity beneath the deck

FAQ

Will pressure washing remove moss faster?
Yes, but it can also shatter or strip wood shingles and void your warranty. It’s not recommended for wood roofs.

Can I use bleach or vinegar to kill moss?
Bleach is too harsh for wood roofing and can damage shingles and landscaping. Stick to roof-safe, wood-specific cleaners.

Is moss removal covered by insurance?
Not usually. Moss and lichen removal are considered maintenance—not damage—by most Florida insurers.

When to Call a Pro

If moss or lichen has been growing for more than a season, it may have already caused hidden damage. Signs you need expert help include:

• Curled or cracked shingles

• Sagging areas or leaks

• Mold or mildew in your attic

• Widespread or thick moss mats

Call Roof Nuts FL for Safe Wood Roof Cleaning

At Roof Nuts FL, we specialize in preserving and protecting wood shake and shingle roofs across Florida’s humid regions. Whether you're in Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, or beyond, we’ll remove moss and lichen safely—without damaging your roof.

📞 Call us at 904-694-3426 to schedule a roof cleaning inspection today.