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When you own a residential or commercial property, you want to do everything you can to ensure it stands the test of time. Here in the UK, there are a number of things that can damage a building, however, the cold and damp conditions we have to contend with makes moss and algae growth one of the biggest issues for homeowners.
It can creep up quickly and soon become a costly problem- but what exactly is it, how does it grow and, is it really that bad? Below, we share the answers to all of your moss-related questions and fill you in on how to prevent it from attacking your property.
Moss and algae are micro-organisms and are some of the earliest forms of life on the planet. They fascinate biologists all over the world as, unlike most other living things, they've barely evolved in millions of years of existence.
Moss is actually a mass of tiny plants called bryophytes and need moisture to reproduce; you can spot moss as it tends to be a blend of yellow, green or brown and has a cushion-like texture. Algae also requires moisture and grows in thin moist mats, making surfaces extremely slippery.
Moss and algae thrive in damp and shaded areas, so the inclement British weather creates the ideal conditions for growth. Experts believe that the 1965 Clean Air Act played a pivotal role in the increased growth of moss here in the UK; although less pollution in the air benefitted our health, the lack of toxic fumes gave way to airborne spores of algae and moss that spread quickly throughout the country. Climate change also plays a part as the warm, damp air enables growths to survive and multiply without being killed off by frost.
However much you're impressed by the biology of algae and moss, when a growth attacks your home it is not pretty. These microorganisms can grow on any roofing material or surface and the roots can bore into brickwork and solid granite, meaning that walls can fall victim too.
Roots allow water into the surface which enables frost attack and shaling of tiles. Also, when moss and algae grow, natural acids are excreted which then react with the alkaline materials used in construction. This further weakens the tiles and bleaches the colour out, making buildings look tired and unattractive.
Mosses can grow in almost every nook and cranny, causing capillary attraction of rainwater which subsequently leaks through the roof. If mosses are allowed to grow, they can eventually become so large that they dislodge, leaving gaps in the tiles or brickwork and falling out into gutters and blocking them. Whilst large mosses are still on the roof, they add excess weight and sit there deteriorating the surface.
If moss starts to grow on your property, you can remove it using a pressure washer, cleaning it off by hand or using a chemical treatment. However, why run the risk of having to go to all that effort and cost when preventative action can be taken?
Firstly, keep your roof and walls out of the shade as much as possible so damp areas can dry out in the sun. Remove moist materials from your walls and roofs like overhanging trees and bushes, as well as fallen leaves and dirt. Also, make sure you've got good drainage on your roof- poorly drained areas tend to see increased growth of algae and moss.
Finally, for the most effective preventative action, you should look to a roof and wall coating specialist. Roof and wall coating protects your home from all sorts of problems, from moss and algae growth to water damage and corrosion. Rather than scrubbing away at algae on your walls or digging out moss on your roof, with specialist coating you can rest assured that your property is protected.
For premium weathertight roof and exterior wall coating, contact Kingdom Coatings on 0800 228 9436 or info@kingdomcoatings.co.uk.
Excellent all round service. Very professional and meticulous job. Neighbours extremely impressed with the look of our house - (night & day!!) So impressed with everything - great job - Brian & Scott are great workers - thank you.
From the initial contact with Peter the surveyor to Barry and Bob who carried out the work I had complete confidence that the workmanship would be of a high standard. I was not disappointed.
It was a pleasure to have 2 workmen arriving bright & cheery every morning at the specified time. Ryan & Martin were very professional and kept us informed at every stage. Nothing was any bother for them. We would certainly recommend them and your company to family and friends. Passers by have actually commented on the quality of the work.
As far as can be seen at the moment we are extremely pleased with all we have had done. It will take a little time to adjust to it all and see how it wears. We trust that all will be well and the warranty will cover all. Your 2 workmen are a real credit to your company.
Brian and Scott went well over what I expected and were so willing to help me out over anything I asked. If I ever were to get Kingdom Coatings to do additional work, I would ask for them. Thank you.
A very professional company who know exactly what is required to produce a top class job. Their staff are equally professional and work unsupervised to give the client exactly what they are looking for.
The workers explained what was required before starting, making sure we understood the work that was to be carried out. They showed much respect to us as customers. Overall delighted with the work and attitude to those of us who are older and in need of guidance.
A very pleasant experience with NO hassle whatsoever. We are extremely delighted with the finished job and would highly recommend Kingdom Coatings.
Great staff, they just came and got on with the job. No messing about. Very hard working. The lady in the office was great at keeping us informed with what was happening. Overall a good experience. (Walls)
The installers were hard working and polite with a sense of humour. Management and office staff could not be faulted either for going out their way to provide a safe service.
The two men were very polite and have done a great job. You hear so many stories about companies who come to your door trying to sell you things. From Mandy who came to give us a quote to the two lads who did the job, cannot fault them. Very professional.
We have found the service from your company to be of a very high standard and would advise anyone we know to use your company. Both men were extremely polite and helpful. Thank you.
From start to finish we have been very happy with the hard work Brian and Scott have been involved in. Nothing has been a bother to them, and Dave and I have been very impressed that they were always asking if we were happy with the results and indeed we are. (Walls)
I have been well satisfied with the way that the whole job has been tackled and I'm very pleased with the end results.
Professional, pleasant workers. Work was carried out efficiently with no delay during the process. Clean – up of surroundings, driveway, windows etc very good. Overall I'm completely satisfied.
I’m extremely pleased with the work carried out at my house. Greg and Barry are an excellent team. They worked hard the day my roof was cleaned – the weather was baltic but it didn’t phase them. A job well done indeed.
A very hard working team who worked extremely hard and did a great job. They kept me informed at regular intervals during their visits. A thoroughly professional service. Well done!
Very professional, there was no pressure in their approach and their operatives showed their experience and always explained what they were doing and when such an activity was to be carried out.
Extremely pleased. Colour a little lighter than I expected but makes a huge difference to our property. We will recommend Kingdom Coatings to others.
I am extremely satisfied with the way and manner that your personnel showed in carrying out their work. Will only be too happy to recommend your company to anybody that enquires. (Walls)
Our expert services, dedication to bringing you the latest technology and efficient installation means Kingdom Roof and Wall Coatings should be your first choice of provider for wall & roof coatings. Talk to our team about your installation today