Common hazardous ingredients
Ammonium sulfate, copper sulfate, ferric and ferrous sulfates, sodium pentachlorophenate, zinc chloride, zinc sulfate.
Potential hazards
Corrosive. Toxic to humans, pets, other plants, animals and fish.
Use
Use according to label instructions. Use a sprinkler can or tank sprayer, not equipment or techniques that produce an ultra-fine mist that can drift.
Storage
Store in a secure area away from children and pets.
Disposal
Best: Use up or give away. Dispose of empty container in the garbage.
Second best: Take to a hazardous waste facility or collection event.
Maintenance
Problems with roof moss typically arise on north-facing slopes and in the shade. Leaves and needles hold moisture on the roof's surface and nurture the growth of moss. Moss is easiest to remove in the early stages of growth, so the best prevention is regular monitoring and cleaning.
- Clean and remove debris in spring and fall to help keep the roof dry and moss-free.
- Trim and thin overhanging branches that shade the roof and prevent quickdrying after rainfall.
Tip: Switch to metal. Moss can't grow easily on a smooth surface, so if it's time to replace your roof, consider metal. While it is initially more expensive, metal roofing lasts longer and is a comparable value over the roof's lifetime.
Removal
- Sweep or hose off the roof once or twice a year to prevent moss growth.
- Remove moss by scrubbing or scraping it off. Asphalt shingles damage easily so be gentle, and avoid pressure-washing since it is very likely to harm the shingles.
- Consider a biodegradable, soap-based moss killer. (Avoid potassium soaps.) Follow directions carefully.
Moss on other surfaces: Moss can pose a safety hazard by making decks, benches and walkways slippery. Try scraping and scrubbing or using water pressure.
Learn how to prevent lawn moss