Generally Green Roofs Are Not Meant To Be Walked On

We are regularly asked the following questions about a green roof.

Generally green roofs are not meant to be walked on.

Intensive green roofs may use plants with foliage from 1 to 15 feet and may require several feet of soil depth. A green roof is meant to increase biodiversity which means it will attract insects sometimes unwanted insects and pests which could bring about diseases. Extensive green roofs have media depths ranging from 5 15 cm whereas intensive green roofs have media depths greater than 15 cm capable of sustaining vegetation with deeper root structures and that is less drought tolerant luckett 2009. However green roofs in many cases are meant to retain water over a longer period of time to slow stormwater runoff and to nourish the plants.

Removing unnecessary finishes may provide sufficient capacity for a green roof of equal weight. At emory knoll farms we specialize in providing plants for extensive green roofs and the remaining questions here in the faq section are focused on the issues of extensive green roofs. If your question is not listed here please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help you.

Questions about green roofs. Green roofs not only help reduce the urban heat island effect by covering conventional dark roofing surfaces with vegetation which absorbs less heat but they also use solar radiation to evaporate water from the growing media and transpire the absorption of water through a plants roots and release of it through its leaves as a vapor moisture. There are two types of green roofs. A roof is designed to protect the building and to shed precipitation.

Depending on climate choice of species depth of soil bed orientation nutrition and irrigation regime green facades may take several seasons before achieving maturity. Green roof costs should be in the neighborhood of 4 5 square foot but installation will always be a premium when compared to white roofs sproul et al 2014 found that 14 square foot green roofs did not have the benefits to make their life cycle costs outpace white roofs though just barely. It is even more important that the roof covering be watertight to prevent leaks into the building. Faqs about green roofs.

By covering a roof with a green roof you re protecting it says andrew franz founder of andrew franz architect. The membrane is not exposed to sun uv rays hailstorms or other deterioration. Aside from rooftop gardens for personal. Green roofs generally benefit the lifespan of the roofing materials underneath as well.

The allowable depth of the green roof is determined by the load capacity that can be allocated to it. Plants growing on green facades are generally rooted in soil beds at the base of the structure in elevated planters at intermediate levels or on rooftops. 4 5 square foot green roofs would tip his lcc in. Keep a detailed maintenance diary.