If you’ve got green patches on your tarmac driveway, you might think it’s just unsightly. But moss growth on tarmac driveways can actually cause real problems. It makes surfaces slippery and can damage your driveway over time.
At BaMaPa Clean, we deal with moss problems on driveways across Greater London every day. We know exactly why this happens and how to fix it safely. Let’s look at what moss growing on your driveway really means.
Why does moss grow on tarmac?
Moss loves tarmac driveways because they hold water well. Unlike smooth surfaces, tarmac has tiny holes and rough spots where moss can settle and start growing. It’s like creating perfect ground cover conditions without meaning to.
Several things make moss problems worse:
Wet weather: Frequent rain and high humidity provide ideal conditions. Areas that experience long wet periods followed by dry spells often see the worst moss problems. Research from transportation agencies shows that moss can establish itself in diverse climate conditions.
Shade: Areas under trees or next to buildings stay wet longer. These spots become perfect for moss to grow, just like a natural moss garden.
Poor drainage: Water that doesn’t drain away quickly creates ideal conditions for moss growing.
Fallen leaves: Leaves and other debris on your driveway feed the moss and help it spread.
How moss damages your tarmac
Moss doesn’t have deep roots, but it still harms your driveway by keeping it constantly damp. Understanding this helps explain why removing moss isn’t just about looks.
Water damage: Moss acts like a sponge, keeping your tarmac wet much longer than normal. This constant dampness breaks down the surface materials faster.
Freeze damage: In winter, water trapped by moss freezes and expands. This forces cracks to get bigger and creates new ones.
Surface breakdown: The constant wetness speeds up wear and weakens the materials that hold your tarmac together.
Problem
How moss causes it
What happens
Cracks
Holds water that freezes
Bigger cracks, more repairs
Rough surface
Constant damp weakens materials
Harder to clean, looks worse
Edge damage
Poor drainage helps moss grow
Weak edges that crumble
Stopping moss before it starts
The best way to deal with moss is to prevent it. This means creating conditions moss doesn’t like – mainly keeping surfaces dry and clean.
Better drainage: Make sure water runs off your driveway quickly instead of sitting in puddles.
Regular cleaning: Keep fallen leaves, dirt, and debris off your driveway. A quick sweep every few weeks makes a big difference.
More sunlight: Trim back plants that create too much shade over your driveway.
Fix problems quickly: Repair cracks and fill dips before they become places for moss to grow.
Professional help: Regular professional cleaning removes moss spores and organic matter that support new growth.
Professional moss removal
When moss has already taken hold, you need professional treatment. DIY methods often only work for a short time because they don’t fix the reasons moss grew in the first place.
At BaMaPa Clean, our asphalt and tarmac cleaning service uses special equipment and pet-safe, child-friendly methods to remove moss completely. We focus on:
Complete removal: We don’t just clean the surface – we get rid of moss from deep in the tarmac.
Finding the cause: We identify what allowed moss to grow and help fix those conditions.
Safe methods: All our products are environmentally friendly and safe for pets and children.
Professional treatment gives you long-term results, not just a quick fix.
The cost of doing nothing
Many people put off dealing with moss because it seems minor. But ignoring moss growth costs more in the long run.
Safety liability: If someone slips and gets hurt on your moss-covered driveway, you could face expensive claims.
Early replacement: Moss damage can shorten your driveway’s life by years, meaning costly replacement much sooner.
Property value: A moss-covered, slippery driveway creates a bad impression and can lower your home’s value.
Higher costs: Once moss gets established, it becomes much harder and more expensive to remove.
Frequently asked questions
Can I remove moss myself?
DIY methods like pressure washing often only work temporarily. Moss typically returns quickly because home treatments don’t fix the underlying problems. Professional treatment addresses both visible moss and the conditions that let it grow.
How fast does moss come back?
Without proper treatment, moss can return in weeks. However, professional treatment that fixes drainage and includes ongoing maintenance can keep driveways moss-free for years.
Is moss harmful to pets and children?
The moss itself isn’t poisonous, but it creates dangerous slippery conditions. Some moss removal products contain harmful chemicals. BaMaPa Clean uses only pet-safe, child-friendly methods.
When’s the best time to treat moss?
Late spring or early summer usually works best. This timing allows thorough treatment before moss enters its main growing season and gives your driveway time to dry before winter.
Protect your investment
Your tarmac driveway is a big investment in your property. Moss growth threatens both safety and how long it lasts, but with proper care, you can keep it in great condition.
At BaMaPa Clean, we help Greater London homeowners protect their driveways with safe, effective methods. Our tarmac cleaning services combine thorough moss removal with practical prevention advice.
Don’t let moss turn your driveway into a safety hazard. Contact BaMaPa Clean today to discuss how we can restore your driveway’s safety and protect your investment. For more information on preventing moss problems, visit this helpful guide.
