Why Build A Green Roof

The popularity of green roofs has increased in the united states due to their many benefits while pretty green roofs serve a much greater purpose than simple beautification.

Why build a green roof. Unlike traditional black tar roofs green roofs reduce energy costs by absorbing heat instead of attracting it and. It d be wise to borrow a copy or two for all of the finer details. The layers of a green roof must like any roof accommodate drainage and protect the building from the elements with a waterproof membrane. Entire detailed books exist on building and maintaining green roofs.

Extends the lifespan of a roof. But they also must create a growing area and potentially provide support irrigation and root protection barriers while staying as light as possible. Green roofs reduce stormwater runoff. European roofs can last between 30 and 50 years.

This article provides only a basic overview to get you started in thinking about the requirements for putting together a green roof. A green roof or living roof is a roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium planted over a waterproofing membrane it may also include additional layers such as a root barrier and drainage and irrigation systems. A green roof that has been properly installed and maintained should extend the lifespan of a roof 2 3 times its normal life. While all green roofs have similar functions each installation is unique so technical performance will vary by region climate building and green roof type and design.

The benefits described below can be achieved by virtually all green roof systems and designs. Two types of green roof exist.