Green roofing is a great way to create a haven for wildlife and reduce your carbon footprint.
Read on to find out how green roofs work and how to make the most out of this environmental investment.
What is a green roof?
Green roofs are roofs that are completely or partially covered with plants and vegetation - a living green space where wild plant-life can flourish.
What are the benefits of green roofing?
Green roofing has several ecological and environmental benefits:
Green roofs promote biodiversity in urban areas - they offer a protective space for wildlife and nature to thrive without interruption
Green roofs can reduce energy wastage - they provide thermal protection and reduce the need to cool or heat living spaces, which is great for energy costs
Green roofs offer protection from flooding - water is processed by the green roof and discharged slowly to the gutters and downpipes over a longer period of time giving the rainwater system a chance to get rid of the water
They also help purify this water by preventing pollutants from passing from the atmosphere into other streams and water channels
What are the different types of green roofs?
There are usually three types of green roofs:
Extensive
Extensive green roofs require minimal maintenance, constructed using a low layer containing grass, moss, sedum or wildflowers. This lightweight solution provides excellent coverage, making it ideal for retrofitting or refurbishment projects.
Intensive
Intensive green roofing is a more complex option - they’re designed to support larger plants such as bushes and small trees which is why they’re often referred to as roof gardens. You’ll be able to effectively and naturally control the effects of heavy rainfall, improve your home’s insulation and even help to lower urban air pollution and temperatures.
Biodiverse
Biodiverse green roofing is designed with wildlife in mind - roofing advisers will help you choose the plants and natural flora that's best for both you and integrates well into your local environment.
How do green roofs work?
Green roofs bring together specific components in a system to successfully sustain a variety of vegetation:
Primary waterproofing layer - this protects your structure from water damage
Root barrier - protects against any roots that might grow through
Green roof drainage membrane - this acts as a drainage layer so that your plants/vegetation don’t get waterlogged
Growing substrate - supports your plants
Vegetation layer - e.g. sedum blanket or wildflowers
If you’re interested in adding a green roof to your property, B & D Roofing and Building are on hand to help. We’re reliable commercial roofing contractors who can offer you expert advice and talk you through the best options for your budget and requirements. Contact us today to speak to a member of our friendly team about your roof installation queries.
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