Green roofs are an eco-friendly roofing system that are also known as living roofs. They are innovative and introduce nature to more urban settings. Green roofs are made up of layers of soil, vegetation, and other specialized materials that are placed on top of a traditional roofing system. This creates a combination of modern engineering with natural processes. With their environmental, aesthetic, and even economic benefits, green roofs are becoming more and more popular throughout the world.
Components of a Green Roof System
Let’s take a look at the typical layers of a green roof system:
- Waterproofing Membrane: This is the base layer and acts as a protection for the building from water infiltration, allowing the green roof to be cared for properly.
- Root Barrier: This layer prevents roots from penetrating the waterproofing membrane.
- Drainage Layer: This layer promotes proper water flow and prevents too much water from building up and flooding the roots, allowing plants to thrive.
- Filter Fabric: This fabric prevents soil particles from clogging the drainage system.
- Growing Medium: This is a specially formulated soil that is lightweight and supports plant growth.
- Vegetation: Finally, we have the vegetation layer. This involves various plant types, including succulents, grasses, shrubs, and— sometimes— even small trees!
Types of Green Roofs
There are two types of green roof systems. Let’s take a look at them below and what makes them different:
- Extensive Green Roofs:
- Low-maintenance
- Lightweight
- Uses drought-resistant vegetation (such as sedums and mosses)
- Better for buildings with limited structural support
- Intensive Green Roofs:
- Heavier
- Complex
- Resembles traditional gardens (such as grass, shrubs, trees, and even pathways)
- More maintenance
- Requires stronger roof structures
Benefits of Green Roof Systems
Green roofs have many benefits, including:
- Reducing heat absorption of buildings
- Cooling surrounding areas
- Improving air quality through enhanced oxygen production
- Stormwater management, reducing runoff and preventing flooding
- Lowering energy costs
- Extending roof lifespan
- Providing habitats for wildlife
- Visually enhancing urban spaces
- Improving mental well-being
- Increasing property values
Green roofs are still a much newer option and require those who specialize in them. When it comes to choosing a new roof, you always want to make sure you pick the best one for you. Green roofs require a lot of upkeep. If you want a roof with minimal upkeep, call us today for one of our many roofing options.
