Roof cleaning & moss removal
Roof cleaning is the careful removal of moss, algae and debris that hold water against the covering and block drainage — protecting slate and tile, clearing gutters and valleys, and catching small faults before they leak.
Moss isn't just untidy — it shortens a roof's life
A bit of moss looks rustic; thick growth is a problem. It holds water against the slate or tile, blocks gutters and valleys so they overflow, and in frost it expands and can lift and crack the covering. On older natural slate it speeds up wear. Clearing it properly protects the roof — and gives us a chance to spot trouble early.
Cleaned the right way
We don't blast roofs with a pressure washer — on most coverings, and especially older slate, high-pressure jetting strips the surface and forces water under the slates, causing more harm than the moss ever would. We clean appropriately for the covering, remove the growth carefully, then clear the gutters, valleys and downpipes of the debris. Where it's worthwhile we can apply a treatment to slow regrowth, and we'll tell you honestly if it isn't.
A clean is also a check
Being up on the roof to clear moss is the ideal moment to catch slipped slates, worn pointing or tired lead before they turn into leaks. We'll flag anything we find and can fold small repairs into the same visit. Pair it with gutter cleaning for the full job, or book a free survey.
From the survey to the finished roof, everything was on time, tidy and exactly what we were quoted. You can tell it's a proper family firm that cares about the work.
Get a free survey for your roof
No obligation, no pushy sales — just an honest look and a clear written quote.
Book a free survey 0800 234 3243Common questions
How much does roof cleaning cost?
It depends on the roof's size, pitch, access and how much moss and growth there is, but it's generally an affordable job — and far cheaper than the damage neglected moss can cause. We'll give you a clear price after a quick look or survey.
Is moss actually a problem, or just cosmetic?
Both. A little moss is cosmetic, but thick growth holds water against the slate or tile, blocks gutters and valleys, and in frost can lift and crack the covering as it expands. On older slate it can speed up wear. Clearing it protects the roof, not just its looks.
Do you jet-wash roofs?
We're careful here. High-pressure jet washing can strip the surface off tiles and drive water under slates, doing more harm than good — especially on older roofs. We clean appropriately for the covering: gentle methods, careful removal, and clearing the gutters and valleys of the debris afterwards.
Will you check the roof while you're up there?
Yes — clearing moss is the perfect time to spot slipped slates, failed pointing or tired lead before they become leaks. We'll flag anything we find and, if you'd like, fold any small repairs into the same visit.
Does roof cleaning come with treatment?
We can apply a biocide treatment after cleaning to slow regrowth where it's appropriate for the roof. We'll advise honestly whether it's worth it for your covering rather than selling it as standard.
How often should a roof be cleaned?
It varies — north-facing and tree-shaded roofs grow moss faster. As a rule, have it looked at every few years, and any time you notice thick growth or moss debris collecting in the gutters.
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Need this done properly?
A free, no-obligation survey and a fixed written quote from Edinburgh's award-winning family roofers.