Green Roof Systems

Vegetation and soil or other growing mediums, planted over a waterproofing membrane, is what constitutes most green roof systems. Potted plants that are maintained on a roof would not be considered a true green roof, although this is an area of debate. Green roofs are also known as “living roofs,” and they serve a number of purposes for a building, such as absorbing rainwater, providing insulation, forming an environment for small animals and birds, and helping to lower urban air temperatures and fight the heat island effect. Here’s an update on the latest trends in green roof systems:

1. Sky Gardens. The roof is the perfect place for growing different flowers and plants. With so much space being taken up by buildings, homeowners with green thumbs aren’t limiting themselves to the sliver of land left over after from home construction. Sky gardens are not only aesthetically pleasing green roof systems, but they also lock in moisture, giving a cooling effect to city areas.

2. Herb and Vegetable Gardens. Organic gardeners in city areas may become keen on living roofs for their potential to yield a growing area that can support edible crops. Fruits and vegetables won’t turn out the same harvest as they would in the ground, since thriving roof plants typically prefer poor soils. Herbs like rosemary, thyme and sage, however, are outstanding green roof candidates.

3. Animal Sanctuaries. Animals, insects and plants usually have no space in urban areas. Even as high up as twenty stories, green roof systems attract birds, butterflies, bees, and other insects. Songbirds and migratory birds also use them for refuge, since they increasingly have to cope with shortages of their natural habitat. Another environmental benefit is that green roofs reduce summer cooling requirements and winter home heating by 26 percent, giving you a more energy efficient home.