Mold Growth on Roof

Tips from Real-Estate-Agents.com

by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of ServiceMagic.com

Q: We have a roof that is 30-years-old and appears to be in pretty good shape-no leaks. We are hoping we can wait a year to have it redone when we will be better prepared financially, but my husband has noticed that there is a green mold growing under the edge of the roof at the back of the house. We are worried this may mean the wood underneath is rotting. Is this something to be concerned about or can he do something to get rid of the visible mold?

A: Dryrot can be a major concern for a homeowner with a 30-year-old roof. To most homeowners, a leak only occurs when the sheetrock turns brown inside. However, most roofing professionals will tell you roofs can leak for two to four years, causing dryrot, fungus, and insulation damage long before the homeowner notices evidence inside on the ceiling.

The edges of the roof are particularly vulnerable to water damage. If all you have is a green moss growing at the end of the shakes, you probably don't have a problem. However, it would be prudent to have a licensed roofer come give you an evaluation of the situation to make sure waiting to reroof won't cause more damage--and expense--next year.

This information is brought to you by Jim Boyce of Boyce's Roofing & Gutters in Rocklin, CA.

To locate a roofing contractor to come evaluate that for you, please visit ServiceMagic.com, type "Repair Roofing" into the search box and submit a service request so we can match you with the ideal service professionals in your area.

Best Regards,

Kathy Maynard

-- Tips courtesy of Service Magic