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You may become so frustrated with the look of moss on your roof that you contemplate whether to clean or replace your roof. Fortunately, you don’t have to go as far as replacing it. After cleaning the moss, you can use a chemical solution to keep it away. For further protection, trim branches that overhang the roof, as fallen seed pods and leaves on the roof allow moisture to collect, encouraging moss growth. Consider adding zinc-coated flashing to the roof, too. As rain washes across the zinc, it leaves zinc particles behind that inhibit moss growth.

You should avoid using a pressure washer on any surface or item that could be damaged by the high-pressure spray, as some materials are too delicate to withstand the force.

Key items and surfaces to avoid include:

• Electrical Components: Never pressure wash electrical systems, as water can cause short-circuits and create a safety hazard. This includes utility meters, breaker boxes, electrical outlets, generators, and HVAC or air conditioner units.

• Delicate and Fragile Materials: Fragile items can crack, shatter, or be stripped by the pressure. Avoid pressure washing windows, glass, light fixtures, shingled roofs (especially asphalt), and stucco.

• Painted, Stained, or Sealed Surfaces: Unless your goal is to strip the finish, do not pressure wash painted surfaces, stained wood (like decks), or anything with a protective seal that could be stripped away. Be especially cautious with older surfaces that may contain lead paint.

• Soft Woods and Certain Decking: Delicate surfaces like softwood, composite decking, and antique or wooden patio furniture can be etched or damaged. If you must wash wood, use a lower-powered pressure washer with a wide-angle nozzle to prevent damage.

• Living Things: Never use a pressure washer on people, pets, or plants. The force can cause serious injury and will destroy landscaping.

Clean the outside of your home at least once a year. If you live in an area with salty sea air, high levels of pollen, or an abundance of leaves in the fall, it's helpful to wash it at least two times a year. Frequent cleanings will allow you to remove debris and pests before they flourish into infestations, or cause mold and mildew.

It is not advisable to use salt on your roof to prevent or remove ice dams. It’s not only mostly ineffective but can also cause serious damage to your roof itself. Salt can rust metal, damage masonry, pit shingles, and cause runoff that’s damaging to plants and animals.