Many roofs collect moss, some more than others. Its removal, of course, may make a big difference between a roof providing first class cover – or not!
Unprecedented numbers of householders, however, have been contacting the National Federation of Roofing Contractors as a result of approaches they’ve received from moss removal pedlars! And, if this was to be done, it’s been suggested by these pedlars that householders should consider having the roof painted to ‘prolong its life.’
Well, according to the NFRC, which has been around for at least 120 years and knows what it’s saying, the practice of moss removal or roof painting, has never been a true discipline. One of the principal reasons being is that moss rarely presents a problem unless it clogs up a home’s drainage system. And painting the roof may cover up a multitude of problems, certainly never improves thermal efficiency and does not extend a roof’s life.
The NFRC says: “Most ‘techniques’ we encountered to remove moss involved ‘violent’ means such as power washing that may cause damage, especially when combined with unnecessary foot traffic which may cause cracked or broken roof tiles.”
NFRC advice to property owners who are concerned about the condition of their roof is to contact a reputable roofing contractor for a proper assessment and, if necessary, to obtain at least three quotes for any works, using conventional roofing methods. To find a local roofing contractor you may go to our website www.nfrc.co.uk.
A further piece of advice for the public especially those who are concerned for elderly relatives who could be subjected to doorstep selling, is to go to the Office of Fair Trading website for free advice and literature on handling doorstep sellers, go to www.oft.gov.uk.
More information: www.nfrc.co.uk
Photo by Fotosearch