How to Remove Moss from Your Roof in Vancouver, BC: A Homeowner’s Guide

If you live in Vancouver or the Lower Mainland, you’ve likely noticed moss growing on rooftops around your neighbourhood. While it might add a rustic charm, moss on your roof is no small problem—especially in our wet, coastal climate. Left untreated, moss can damage shingles, cause leaks, and even shorten the lifespan of your roof.

In this post, we’ll show you how to safely and effectively remove moss from your roof in Vancouver, and how to prevent it from coming back.

Why Moss is a Big Issue in Vancouver

Vancouver’s mild, damp, rainforest climate creates the perfect environment for moss to thrive. With frequent rain, overcast days, and lots of shady trees, roofs here rarely get the sunlight needed to stay dry. As a result, moss can quickly spread, especially on older roofs or those surrounded by cedars and pine trees.

If you’re seeing green moss patches on your shingles, it’s time to take action.

How to Remove Moss from Your Roof in Vancouver

1. Put Safety First

Before you begin, make sure you’re working safely:

• Use a sturdy ladder and have someone spot you

• Wear slip-resistant footwear

• Avoid working in wet or icy conditions

• For steep or complex roofs, consider hiring a professional

2. Manually Remove the Moss

For light growth, you can use a long-handled, soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the moss off your roof. Always brush downward—from the peak toward the gutter—to avoid lifting shingles.

Avoid using pressure washers! They may seem like a quick fix, but they can cause serious damage to asphalt shingles and force water into places it shouldn’t go, potentially causing leaks.

This is also a great time to ensure your gutters are clear. Read more on how cleaning your gutters can avoid leaks in our blog How to Prepare Your Roof for an Atmospheric River.

3. Apply a Moss Removal Solution

Once most of the moss is removed, treat your roof with a cleaning solution to kill remaining spores:

DIY Options:

• 1:1 solution of household bleach and water (rinse well afterward)

• 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water (plant-friendly but still effective)

Important: Protect your landscaping! Rinse any nearby plants before and after applying bleach-based solutions, as runoff can harm your garden.

4. Rinse and Inspect

After allowing the moss treatment to soak in (usually 15–20 minutes), rinse your roof gently with a garden hose. Inspect for any lifted shingles or damage while you're up there.

If anything looks off or you don’t feel comfortable assessing the damage yourself, it’s best to call in a roofing expert in Vancouver.

How to Prevent Moss from Growing Back

Once the moss is gone, here are a few ways to keep it from coming back:

• Trim Trees and Branches: More sun exposure helps dry out your roof

• Clean Gutters Regularly: Standing water and debris are moss magnets

• Install Zinc or Copper Strips: These release moss-inhibiting metal ions when it rains

• Schedule Roof Maintenance: Annual inspections are key—especially in Vancouver’s damp climate

Should You Hire a Professional in Vancouver?

Moss removal can be dangerous and time-consuming, especially on multi-story homes or steeply pitched roofs. A professional roofing company in Vancouver has the tools, safety gear, and experience to clean your roof without causing damage.

If your roof has experienced any damage as a result of moss or moss removal, contact Greater Vancouver Roofing for a free quote. We’ll help extend the life of your roof and protect your home investment.

Get a Free Roof Moss Inspection in Vancouver

If you’re dealing with moss on your roof, don’t wait for the rain to make it worse. Contact Greater Vancouver Roofing today for a free inspection and quote. We serve homeowners across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland with expert, affordable roof cleaning services.