Like any other kind of debris that gets trapped in your gutter system, moss and gutters are not a good combination. In the Lower Mainland where wind and moisture mixed with a bit of dirt and a few stray spores provide the perfect environment, moss growth can make gutters more vulnerable to frequent blockages and clogs.
Moss in gutters not only causes clogs, but it can also weigh gutters down. Moss acts like a sponge, soaking up moisture, sometimes to such an extent that gutters become so heavy sections can sag or even break. While soggy leaves and water-logged debris can add extra weight too, they can be easily cleared away in comparison to moss.
To Remove Moss from Gutters
Moss is a resilient plant with a persistent root system.
- Pull out the moss by hand and dispose of it in a trash bag
- Scrub gently with a soft bristle brush to remove any remaining growth
- Use a homemade solution of vinegar or bleach (1 part to 4 parts water) to prevent moss from returning
- Rinse away affected areas with a garden hose or a power washer on a low setting
Tips to Make the Job Easier
When the moss growth is dense, you may have to use a herbicide to kill it. If commercial chemicals are a cause for concern, use a homemade weed killer instead; should it leach into your groundwater, it will lessen its impact.
You will most likely need to use a ladder. Have an assistant or some way to anchor you or the ladder to allow you to work safely.
Take your time. Removing the moss will be like pulling weeds in your garden – you will want to make sure that you’ve got as much of the root system as possible.
Check to see if moss is growing on your roof as well. If it is, it will also need to be removed – rain will wash spores off the shingles and into the gutter system where the whole cycle can start again.
