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Will power washing remove moss?

Yes — power washing can remove moss, but the long-term success depends entirely on using the correct method. Moss is a resilient, root-based organism that embeds itself deep into porous surfaces like asphalt shingles, concrete, pavers, and brick. Simply blasting moss with high pressure will remove the green layer you can see, but it will not kill the root structure, causing it to grow back quickly and potentially even thicker.

This is why professional contractors listed on PowerWashing.com rely on soft washing, not high-pressure washing, to eliminate moss safely and permanently.

Below is the complete breakdown of how moss removal works — and why the wrong approach can cause expensive damage.

⭐ 1. High Pressure Only Removes Surface Moss — Not the Root

Moss attaches itself to surfaces with a root-like anchoring system called rhizoids. When you use high pressure:

  • You remove the visible moss
  • You leave 50–70% of the rhizoids behind
  • The moss returns in weeks
  • You damage the surface underneath

Repeated blasting can erode concrete, pit pavers, and strip granular coating from roof shingles.

High pressure is NOT a safe solution for moss removal.


⭐ 2. Soft Washing Is the Proper Method to Remove Moss

Soft washing uses:

  • Low pressure (100–300 PSI)
  • Biodegradable moss-killing detergents
  • Surfactants to help solutions cling longer
  • Extended dwell times

These cleaning agents penetrate moss and destroy it from the inside out, including the root structure.

This method is safe for:

  • Roofs
  • Pavers
  • Brick
  • Stucco
  • Siding
  • Stone walls
  • Patios and walkways

Professionals then rinse gently, leaving the surface fully sanitized and preventing rapid regrowth.


⭐ 3. Moss on Roofs Requires Special Care

Moss on roofs is extremely common in damp, shaded, or cool climates. It holds moisture like a sponge, causing:

  • Shingle lifting
  • Granule loss
  • Premature roof aging
  • Water intrusion
  • Mold development underneath shingles

Roof manufacturers strictly recommend soft washing, never pressure washing.
Contractors found through PowerWashing.com follow these roofing standards to avoid voiding warranties and causing structural issues.


⭐ 4. Moss Returns Faster When Removed Incorrectly

If moss is pressure washed:

  • Rhizoids stay behind
  • Moss comes back 2–3× faster
  • Moisture retention increases
  • Permanent surface etching may occur

By contrast, soft washing leaves a residual solution that prevents regrowth for 12–24 months, depending on climate.


⭐ 5. Moss Loves Certain Property Conditions

Moss grows aggressively in areas with:

  • Shade from trees
  • High humidity
  • Poor drainage
  • North-facing walls
  • Damp siding
  • Porous concrete
  • Water retention in paver joints
  • Untreated organic buildup

PowerWashing.com contractors evaluate these conditions and recommend appropriate maintenance.


⭐ 6. Should Moss Be Removed Every Year?

Not always.

With proper treatment:

  • Concrete & pavers → Once every 12–18 months
  • Roof shingles → Every 2–3 years
  • Brick & stone → As needed depending on moisture levels

Routine maintenance keeps moss from taking root again.


⭐ 7. DIY Moss Removal Is Risky

Common mistakes include:

  • Using too much pressure
  • Using bleach incorrectly
  • Not protecting plants
  • Over-wetting surfaces
  • Causing permanent etching
  • Voiding roof warranties

Instead, hiring a trained professional from the PowerWashing.com Directory ensures your moss problem is treated safely, effectively, and without causing damage.