As global warming becomes a greater threat to our planet, roofers have a new way to help improve the ecosystem with green roofs. Local Berkshire roofers, Roofing Matters Group are on a mission to help save the planet by offering their new services, installing solar panels and now green roofs.
What are Green Roofs?
A green roof is a layer of vegetation planted over a waterproofing system that is installed on top of a flat or slightly sloped roof.
Green roofs provide benefits such as reducing the urban heat island effect, storm water runoff, carbon footprint as well as improving the air quality and increasing the thermal performance of a building. There are many benefits to have a green roof installed, here are just some of the few.
Lifespan of the green roofs
Not only will a roof need to sufficiently deal with wind and rain but fluctuating temperatures too. As such, it’s common for both homeowners and businesses to consider an alternative option for the roof.
Green roofs offer this opportunity and have proved to double or triple the life expectancy of your rooftop. The barrier of greenery helps protect the waterproof membrane underneath and ensure your rooftop’s life expectancy lasts well for decades.
Air quality
Urban areas are often notable for their lack of vegetation. Which leads to a build-up of carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants. A green roof makes the most of the unused space. Plants absorb pollutants and emit oxygen, improving air quality and helping the environment.
Improving wildlife’s roofs too
Green roofs also help support wildlife and in turn, can create a healthy habitat. Whilst they won’t directly replace ground environments, they’re perfect for attracting birds and other wildlife to create a thriving eco-friendly habitat.
Aesthetics
A green roof is visually appealing, and in the case of a public building, it’s guaranteed to attract attention. The days of grey concrete and acres of glass and steel are long gone. People want aesthetically pleasing architecture and green roofs often play a big part in the overall design.
Conclusion
There are very few disadvantages, but the cost of installation is the main one. A green roof will be more expensive to install than a traditional flat roof. As the underlying structure may have to be strengthened to cope with the extra load.
However, despite the greater initial setback, over time these green roofs more than make up for the outlay. When you consider the range of incredible benefits, there should be no reason to allow cost to influence you in your decision.
If you are looking to renew your flat roof or have any other enquiry, get in contact with Roofing Matters Group. You can get in touch with the team here and they can arrange for Daryl, to provide you a free quotation.
