4 Reasons Why Green Roofing Systems Will Benefit the Building

ZGreen roofs are those that use plants instead of conventional coverings like shakes, shingles, or tiles. Sometimes referred to as ecoroofs, green roofs are composed of a deck, a watertight membrane, soil-filtering fabric, a soil layer, and drought-resistant plants. These roofs have been popular in Europe for decades, and they’re becoming more common in the United States. Here, we’ll outline the basics and the benefits of green roofs.

What Are Green Roofs?

Green roofs are grouped into two categories: intensive and extensive.

· Intensive green roofs look much like roof gardens, with a wide variety of plant species that grow directly in a soil layer that may be anywhere from eight inches to 15 feet deep depending on the project’s requirements. An intensive green roof provides lush greenery and additional outdoor living spaces for homeowners.  

· Extensive green roofs are lower profile roofs that are designed for limited occupant access. These roofs have a soil layer that’s just a few inches deep, which makes them lighter and less expensive than other green roofing options. Plant varieties are limited, primarily to reduce the need for maintenance. In most cases, low-growing, ground covering plants are used on extensive green roofs.

No matter which type of green roof a building owner chooses, its load capacity must be carefully engineered. Every project is different, and customers can count on the Primo Roofing team to provide the individualized service they deserve.

Lower Cooling and Heating Costs

Green roofs serve as insulators, allowing buildings to hold heat in during the winter and keep it out in summer. A German study showed that green roofing may help homes retain upwards of 50% of the heat that would normally be lost, while a Canadian survey found that it reduces air conditioning demand by about 75% on hot days. Get in touch with our team to learn how a green roof can help you save every month.

Longer Lasting Materials

The plants and soil mixture found on a green roof protect the decking and watertight membrane from temperature fluctuations and the sun’s UV rays. This helps these roofs last longer—up to 300% longer—than those made from traditional materials.

Less Noise Pollution

The soil and plant layers found on a green roof deflect and absorb noise, creating a quieter and more tranquil environment. That’s a big reason why many city dwellers are outfitting their homes with green roofs.

Biodiversity

Where conventional roofs look plain and utilitarian, green roofs are lush and green. They don’t just provide additional living space; in most cases, they also offer shelter and food to native insects and animals.

Bonus Benefit #1: Less Runoff

Green roofs absorb water during storms, and the soil and plant roots then filter away most of the pollutants in that water. A green roof makes runoff cleaner and delays its flow into municipal sewer systems, reducing the risk of flooding and backups.

Bonus Benefit #2: Oxygenated Air

With more plants around, building owners get cleaner air. The plants on a green roof absorb carbon dioxide, using it during photosynthesis and emitting oxygen as a byproduct. The plants on just one green roof will emit more oxygen than the average family uses in an entire year.

Learn More About Green Roofing Today

Green roofs offer numerous benefits, including reduced energy spending, greater biodiversity, and more oxygenated air. Learn about these and other green roofing advantages when you schedule a consultation with one of our roof experts.

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