A building's roof that is partially or entirely covered with vegetation, either in soil or another suitable growth medium, is referred to as a green roof. It does not apply to rooftops with container gardens or green roofs like those made of green tiles. Instead, it refers to roof-mounted technology that enhances habitat or reduces energy usage, i.e., technologies with an ecological purpose.
Almost any flat or pitched roof, as well as mezzanine surfaces, are suitable for the installation of green roofs; however, it is crucial to have a professional verify that the slab can support the weight of the layers, substrate (soil), and vegetation.
How does a green roof work?
On the roofs and roof pans of buildings, a green roof serves as a little ecosystem. They perform technically to avoid damage to the building that supports them, in addition to the ecological advantages we shall explain later. In a green roof's construction, there are primarily six layers that make it up (counting from top to bottom):
- Topsoil, which consists of surface-planted plants, grasses, and flowers.
- Growth material for plants (often a nutrient-rich blend of nursery soil and other organic substances).
- Layer or cloth used for filtration (keeps soil and roots in place while allowing water to pass through for drainage).
- Sands or other materials with big grains that permit water to pass through but not other solids are used as the rainwater drainage and capture layer, which stores or channels the water for later use.
- Root fence
- Waterproof membrane (which prevents water and moisture from entering the roof's structural components).
Advantages
Environmental advantages
- Lessen the impact of urban heat islands.
- Lessen floods since they hold onto a lot of the storm's rainwater.
- Make use of any empty spots in your home where you can unwind, read the newspaper, drink coffee, or do all three at once.
Health Advantages
- One person needs 1 m2 of grass to produce the oxygen they need year-round.
- A square meter of grass collects 130 grams of dust annually.
- People who work in environments with plants perform better and feel less uncomfortable.