Brushing moss off the roof is okay only if done very carefully and at the right time, otherwise it can cause significant damage to asphalt shingles. Never brush or scrape moss off while it is alive and firmly attached, as its root-like structures called rhizoids are embedded under shingle edges and forcibly removing it will lift shingles, break sealant bonds, and strip large amounts of protective granules, accelerating roof aging. The correct method is to first kill the moss using a shingle-safe moss killer containing zinc sulfate, potassium salts of fatty acids, or products like Moss B Ware or Spray and Forget. Apply the killer on a cool overcast day and allow it to work for several weeks until moss turns brown, dries out, and dies. Once dead and dry, moss becomes brittle and detached. Then you can gently brush it off using a soft-bristle broom or brush, sweeping from ridge downward, never upward, which would lift shingles. Use light pressure and avoid aggressive scrubbing. Never use a wire brush, stiff brush, or pressure washer. If moss is thick, it may come off in mats with gentle sweeping. After removal, install zinc or copper strips near the ridge to prevent regrowth and trim overhanging branches to increase sunlight. For extensive moss coverage, consider hiring a professional roof cleaner experienced in shingle-safe methods.
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