How to Install a Zinc Strip to Prevent Moss on Your Roof

A zinc strip can be installed on a roof to prevent moss from growing. The zinc prevents the growth of the moss as the strips become corroded from moisture. The corrosion releases the zinc. The moss is incapable of digesting the moisture containing chemicals in zinc and is then incapable of growing.

Zinc strips not only prevent the growth of moss, but they prevent the growth of mold and mildew as well. The strips are eco-friendly and cause no harmful damage to the environment.

They may, however, cause damage to any plants growing on the ground near any runoff from the roof. Follow the simple steps below to effectively install zinc strips on your roof.

Step 1 - Safety

Put on your protective eyewear, work boots and work gloves before you begin. Be careful moving up and down the ladder. Always be cognizant of the roof edges while you are working. Be sure to have a family member or friend with you while you work.

Step 2 – Preparing the Roof

Use a stiff brush to remove all of the moss possible from the roof of your house. If moss is sticking to the roof, use a bleach solution to remove it. In a bucket, combine 3 cups of water with 1 cup of bleach.

Immerse the brush into the bleach solution, and carefully shake off any excess liquid. Cover the difficult moss area with the bleach solution. Allow the solution to sit for about 10 minutes. Use the brush again to scrub away any moss, or residue.

Step 3 – Installing the Zinc Strips

Lean your ladder against one end of the roof. Beginning at that end of the roof, tuck one of the zinc strips under the shingles that cap the ridge of the roof. Use a hammer and nails to secure the strip to the roof.

Insert the nails into a washer or rubber gasket to prevent any water from leaking into these spots. Continue along the roof until the entire ridge is complete. By installing the strips on the ridge, any water that runs over them will trickle down the roof, carrying the zinc chemicals with it.

These chemicals will create an environment that will prevent moss growth.

Step 4 – Maintaining the Zinc Strips

The zinc metal strips are made from a variety of metals. The strips are then coated with zinc. The zinc coating will eventually wear away over time. Once the zinc coating has worn away, moss will begin to form.

Inspect the strips on a regular basis to ensure that the zinc coating is still intact. You will need to check your roof about once a year. If there is evidence that the coating on the strips is worn, you will need to replace them as soon as possible so as not to have any further moss growth on your rooftop.