Humidity & Moss: Roofing Solutions for Homes Near the Passaic River

If you live along River Drive or in the neighborhoods near Dahnert’s Lake, you know the perks: nice views and a cool breeze off the water. But there is a downside to living this close to the Passaic River: Humidity.

While you might feel the humidity in the air, your roof feels it even more. That constant moisture, combined with the shade from Garfield’s mature street trees, creates a perfect breeding ground for moss, algae, and lichen.

As a top-rated roofing services in Garfield, NJ, we often see roofs in these riverside neighborhoods that look 10 years older than they actually are. Here is what is growing on your roof and how to stop it.

Is it Dirt or Is it Alive?

First, look at the north-facing side of your roof (or the side most shaded by trees). Do you see black streaks or green clumps?

• Black Streaks (Gloeocapsa Magma): This isn’t dirt; it’s a hardy algae that feeds on the limestone filler in your asphalt shingles. It travels by wind and thrives in the humid air rising off the Passaic River.
• Green Moss: This is the thick, fuzzy growth. It acts like a sponge, soaking up rain and humidity.

Why Moss is Dangerous for Garfield Homes

You might think it adds a “rustic” look to your home, but moss is a roof killer.

1. Frost Damage: Because moss holds water, when our Garfield temperatures drop below freezing in winter, that wet moss freezes. This expands and cracks the shingle granules underneath.
2. Lifted Shingles: Moss grows under the edges of your shingles, physically lifting them up. This breaks the waterproof seal and allows wind-driven rain to rot the wood deck.
3. Rot: A roof covered in moss never truly dries out. This constant dampness can rot the roof sheathing over time.

3 Solutions for Riverside Homes

If you are fighting the “River Drive Green fuzz,” here is how we handle it:

1. Zinc or Copper Strips

This is a smart, preventative fix. We can install a strip of zinc or copper near the peak of your roof. When it rains, trace amounts of metal wash down the roof surface. This creates an environment where algae and moss cannot grow. It’s like a force field for your shingles.

2. Trim the Canopy

Moss hates sunlight. If you have large oak or maple trees overhanging your roof, they are blocking the sun and dropping organic food for the moss. Trimming branches back (even just a few feet) to allow sunlight to hit the roof can naturally kill off the growth.

3. Algae-Resistant Shingles (The Permanent Fix)

If your roof is already aging and covered in growth, cleaning might cause more damage than it’s worth. When we perform a roof replacement in 07026, we often recommend GAF StainGuard Plus™ shingles. These come with timed-release algae-fighting technology built right into the granule.

The “Do Not” Rule: Pressure Washing

Never let anyone pressure wash your asphalt roof. High-pressure water will strip the protective granules off your shingles instantly, ruining the roof’s lifespan. If you need cleaning, it must be a “soft wash” chemical treatment.

Get a “River-Ready” Roof Inspection

Don’t let the humidity eat your investment. Whether you need zinc strips installed or are ready to upgrade to algae-resistant shingles, trust the local pros.

See the damage for yourself? Contact our roof repair specialists in 07026 for a free assessment. We will give you an honest answer on whether your roof can be cleaned or needs a fresh start.

Grayson Roofing & Chimney Your neighbors at 436 MacArthur Ave, Garfield Call (201) 310-7147