FAQs

Click on the questions below for answers to our most common inquiries.

• What is Z-STOP?
• How does it work?
• Is Z-STOP toxic?
• How is Z-STOP installed?
• Aren't there chemicals that do the same thing?
• What kind of roofs will Z-STOP work on?
• Won't the shiny strip of Z-STOP be very noticeable on the roof?
• Why remove moss or fungus at all?
• Which is the problem... moss or fungus?
• How is Z-STOP packaged?
• What are Z-STOP Nails?
• How should stores merchandise Z-STOP?
• Other questions?

What is Z-STOP?

Z-STOP is a solution designed to inhibit the growth of moss, fungus, algae, and mildew on roofs. It comes in a roll measuring 2 1/2 inches wide by 50 feet long and is fastened to the top of the roof on both sides of the ridge cap.

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How does it work?

Z-STOP operates by forming a surface coating of fungistats when exposed to the atmosphere and rain. These fungistats are then washed down onto the roof surface by rainwater. It is this process that inhibits the growth of fungus, algae, and moss.

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Is Z-STOP toxic?

Z-STOP is only toxic to fungus-type organisms such as fungus, moss, algae, and mildew. It is non-toxic to humans, animals, plants, and fish, and it has no adverse effects on them. Z-STOP has received full approval from the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).

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How is Z-STOP installed?

1. Prepare the Roof Surface: Prior to installing Z-STOP, remove any existing moss, fungus, algae, or mildew using either chemical treatments designed for this purpose or by pressure washing. When using chemicals, spray them onto the roof and then brush or scrub to remove the build-up. It is important to note that most chemicals used for this purpose are toxic to plants, so adjacent plants should be covered. Additionally, rinse off any chemicals from metal surfaces on the roof, such as gutters, flashing, and downspouts, as many chemicals are corrosive to metal.
2. Apply Z-STOP: Once the moss or fungus build-up has been removed, unroll the Z-STOP along and just below both sides of the ridge cap. Nail it in place approximately every two feet using Z-STOP Nails. Ensure that the upper edge of the Z-STOP is positioned against the ridge cap without being tucked under its edge, as Z-STOP needs to be left exposed to effectively inhibit growth. For hip roofs, it is essential to install Z-STOP on both sides of all ridge caps, not just at the peak, as rain carries the Z-STOP ingredients to the fungus and runs down the roof from wherever Z-STOP is applied. Z-STOP can be easily cut with snips or scissors if needed.
3. Fasten Z-STOP: To attach Z-STOP to concrete, metal, or flat tile roof shingles, drill a tap hole in the tile and secure the Z-STOP with a pan head self-tapping sheet metal screw, ensuring a neoprene washer is placed under the screw head. The washers provided with Z-STOP nails can also be used for this purpose.

Please exercise caution when working on roofs and use ladders designed for this purpose. Follow instructions for chemicals and pressure washers carefully. If unsure of your skills, consider hiring a professional roofer to clean your roof and install Z-STOP.

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Aren't there chemicals that do the same thing?

No, there are not chemicals that provide the same long-term, residual effect as Z-STOP. Although there are several chemicals acting as fungicides, primarily used for removing existing build-up before Z-STOP installation, none offer sustained protection. Moreover, chemical treatments often exhibit additional toxic effects, especially on adjacent planted areas, and can lead to corrosion of existing metal flashing, gutters, and downspouts.

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What kind of roofs will Z-STOP work on?

Z-STOP is compatible with a variety of roofing materials, including wood, composition, concrete, metal, and flat tile roof shingles. However, it is not suitable for Spanish Tile roofing products due to their shape, which does not allow continuous flow of rainwater from the ridge cap all the way down the roof.

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Won't the shiny strip of Z-STOP be very noticeable on the roof?

No, the shiny appearance of Z-STOP is temporary. It quickly weathers to a dull, neutral gray, making it less noticeable on the roof.

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Why remove moss or fungus at all?

Removing moss or fungus from a roof is essential for several reasons:

1. Prevent Damage: Moss can cause considerable damage to a roof by breaking down the fibers in the shingles, leading to their separation and allowing leaks to occur. Neglected moss growth can result in premature roof replacement due to the extent of the damage caused.
2. Enhance Appearance: While fungus, algae, and mildew may not cause as much structural damage as moss, they can detract from the appearance of a roof. As one of the largest visible surfaces of a house, a roof covered with fungus, algae, or mildew can negatively impact the overall aesthetic appeal of the home.
3. Energy Efficiency: Fungus reduces the roof's ability to reflect light and heat, resulting in higher air conditioning bills. By removing fungus growth, homeowners can improve the energy efficiency of their homes and reduce cooling costs.

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Which is the problem... moss or algae?

Both moss and algae can be problematic for roofs, and their prevalence varies depending on the area. In some regions, there may be algae growth, while in others, moss may be more common. The good news is that Z-STOP is effective against all types of growth, including moss, fungus, algae, and mildew, regardless of the specific type present on the roof.

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How is Z-STOP packaged?

Each roll is attractively labeled. Each carton contains six rolls of Z-STOP. With an average application of three rolls per roof, one carton is sufficient to treat two roofs. Additionally, there are 45 cartons (270 rolls) per pallet.

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What are Z-STOP Nails?

Z-STOP Nails are specifically designed for use with Z-STOP. They are short, galvanized roofing nails with neoprene washers and annular rings, providing secure fastening and weather resistance when installing Z-STOP on the roof.

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How should stores merchandise Z-STOP?

Stores should merchandise Z-STOP prominently in areas related to roofing supplies, such as flashing and gutters, or in the garden and nursery section. Some stores opt to display it in both locations for increased visibility. The recommended display method is stacking Z-STOP pyramid fashion to attract attention and make it easily accessible to customers.

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Other questions?

If you have any other questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help!

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