7 Ways to Keep Moss from Growing on Concrete

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Are you wondering how to keep moss from growing on concrete? This is not an unusual question, especially for property owners in tropical areas. High humidity levels encourage moss as well as mold and mildew on outdoor surfaces. These growths are not only unwelcoming, but they can also damage concrete and other materials.

How to keep moss from growing on concrete:

1. Sunlight exposure
2. Improve drainage
3. Clean regularly
4. Use baking soda or vinegar
5. Apply bleach
6. Seal the concrete
7. Invest in pressure washing regularly

To find out more about how to use these methods, keep reading! Also, a pressure washing contractor near you can assist in keeping your outdoor spaces stunning. They might also suggest added methods for avoiding moss on your concrete surfaces.

How to Keep Moss From Growing on Concrete – 7 Methods That Work!

To prevent moss growth on concrete, minimize moisture, improve sunlight exposure, and inhibit moss colonization or regrowth.

Check out 7 of the most effective methods that can keep moss from growing on concrete around your property:

Sunlight Exposure

Moss thrives in shady, damp environments. Trim back overhanging trees, shrubs, or anything that casts shadows on the concrete. Increasing sunlight exposure can discourage moss growth. Also, sweep the concrete surfaces regularly, to remove debris that blocks sunlight.

Improve Drainage

Ensure proper drainage around the concrete surfaces. Poor drainage can lead to moisture accumulation, which promotes moss growth on driveways and patios. Grade the area to allow water to flow away from the concrete. Additionally, you might install French drains or sump pumps on overly moist properties.

Regular Cleaning

Periodically scrub the concrete surfaces to remove any existing moss. Use a mixture of water and mild detergent, or a specialized concrete cleaner. A stiff brush can help remove moss and prevent it from taking root. This also removes debris that blocks sunlight and holds moisture against the concrete, as said.

Baking Soda or Vinegar Solution

Mix a solution of water with baking soda or vinegar and apply it to the mossy areas. Let it sit for a while before scrubbing and rinsing. These natural solutions can help kill and prevent moss growth. Ensure you rinse the mixture thoroughly, so you don’t dry the concrete and damage surrounding vegetation.

Bleach Solution

Dilute 1 part bleach to 10 parts water and spray it on the mossy areas. Be careful with bleach, as it can discolor or damage nearby plants and fabrics. Rinse thoroughly after a few minutes. Reapply if needed, especially on thick moss or other troublesome spots.

Sealing the Surface

Apply a concrete sealer to the surface. Sealing reduces concrete pores, creating a barrier against moisture. Less moisture means less risk of moss growth! Regular sealing also protects against damage due to sun exposure, harsh wind and rain, and heavy traffic.

Pressure Washing

Use a pressure washer to remove moss and algae from concrete surfaces. Pressure washing can help dislodge moss and prevent its growth. Invest in professional services to avoid the risk of damage. Too much pressure can etch concrete or dislodge aggregate.

Also, you might have a power washing contractor address other areas prone to moss, mold, or mildew at the same time! Washing exterior house walls and other surfaces protects them against damage. This also ensures a clean, welcoming space.

Should Moss Be Removed From Concrete?

When researching how to keep moss from growing on concrete, you might wonder if it’s worth the trouble! While there is no “one size fits all” answer, there are many good reasons to tackle moss on your property:

• Moss can make surfaces slippery, especially when wet. If the concrete area is a high-traffic walkway or prone to moisture, remove the moss to prevent slip-and-fall accidents.
• Moss can trap moisture against the concrete surface, which may lead to accelerated wear and deterioration over time. If the concrete is part of a structural element, moss removal might be advisable to prevent long-term damage.
• Moss can harbor moisture and allergens, potentially causing respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. Removing moss can improve air quality in the surrounding area.

Lastly, remember that you deserve to enjoy outdoor spaces on your residential or commercial property. Moss often makes those spaces look rundown and neglected. In turn, consider removing the moss if it simply detracts from the appearance of concrete.

What Kills Moss Permanently on Concrete?

Moss regrows on damp surfaces easily. Consequently, it’s difficult to kill it permanently. This is especially true if you don’t address underlying conditions such as poor drainage. However, there are a few methods that work to keep moss away as much as possible:

• There are moss-killing products available at garden centers and home improvement stores. Look for products that contain active ingredients like potassium salts of fatty acids, iron sulfate, or zinc sulfate.
• A diluted bleach solution can kill moss effectively. Mix about 1 part bleach to 10 parts water and spray it on the mossy areas. Be cautious, as bleach can damage nearby plants and fabrics. Rinse thoroughly after a few minutes.
• White vinegar is an acidic solution that can help kill moss. Apply undiluted white vinegar to the mossy areas and let it sit for a while before scrubbing and rinsing. Be aware that vinegar might also affect nearby plants.
• Installing copper strips or wire along the edges of the concrete can inhibit moss growth. Rainwater running over the copper can release ions that deter moss.

It's important to note that while these methods can help control moss growth, moss may eventually return if the conditions that favor its growth persist. Addressing factors like shade, moisture, and lack of sunlight is crucial for long-term prevention.

A Word From Our Power Washing Crew

ProClean Pressure Washing Venice is happy to explain how to keep moss from growing on concrete. Hopefully we’ve offered some good tips! Also, if you’re in the area, call our Venice FL pressure washing contractors for a FREE price quote. We guarantee outstanding services for all the pressure washing you need to have done.