Duncan Roof Lichen Removal Specialists

Yes — more so than moss or algae. Lichen rhizines (root-like structures) physically penetrate and break down shingle granules and cedar wood fibre. Established lichen causes structural shingle damage that cannot be repaired. Early treatment is essential.

No. Scraping lichen tears rhizines and leaves fragments behind — each fragment regrows into a new colony within 1–2 seasons. The only effective removal method is professional biocide treatment that dissolves the entire thallus and rhizine system.

Lichen treatment is a multi-phase process. Initial biocide application takes 3–5 hours. The lichen dies over 60–120 days and sheds naturally. For severe infestations, a follow-up application at 90 days ensures complete elimination.

Moss is green and fluffy, easily compressed. Lichen is flat, crusty, and tightly bonded to the surface — orange (Xanthoria), grey (Physcia), or pale green (Parmelia). Lichen cannot be peeled or scraped off without damaging the shingle beneath.

Yes. Roof Labs Canada operates year-round on Vancouver Island. Biocide treatments are effective at temperatures above 5°C — common even in January in Victoria, Nanaimo, and most Island communities. Winter treatment is often advantageous as damp conditions help product penetrate.