NFRC (The National Federation of Roofing Contractors Ltd), the UK’s oldest roofing trade association, has been receiving an unprecedented number of calls from members of the public, who have been approached about moss removal, which is usually followed up with the tiles being painted in order, so it is claimed, to prolong the life of the roof.

While NFRC is a dedicated roofing trade association that has been around for over 120 years we have never recognised the practice of moss removal or roof painting as a true roofing discipline. The reason being, in most instances, moss on roof tiles is rarely a problem and only needs to be removed if it is blocking gutters, outlets and other drainage points on the roof. Most ‘techniques’ that we have come across to remove moss, are often achieved by ‘violent’ means such as power-washing, which may cause damage to the roof, especially when combined with unnecessary foot traffic often leading to cracked or broken roof tiles.

The removal of the moss is often followed up by painting the roof tiles. There are claims that this can increase the thermal efficiency of roofs as well as extending the life of the roof tiles, but unless the products carry credible UK based, third party accreditation we would urge members of the public to view any claims with extreme caution.

Our advice, therefore, to property owners who are concerned about the condition of their roof is to contact a reputable roofing contractor for a proper assessment and, if necessary, to obtain at least three quotes for any works, using conventional roofing methods. To find a local roofing contractor you may go to our website nfrc.co.uk/membersearch.

A further piece of advice for members of the public especially those who are concerned for elderly relatives who could be subject to doorstep selling, is to go to Citizens Advice for free advice on handling doorstep sellers.