Green roofs, also known as living roofs, are partially or entirely covered by vegetation such as native grasses and plants. Homeowners, construction professionals, and building managers are installing them on new and existing residential and commercial structures. And even though they are trending now, green roofs have been used in one form or another in many parts of the world for several thousand years. Advances in green roof technologies, even in the past decade, are significant, offering consumers more choices and greater variety. While aesthetics are a big draw, they are many other reasons why you should invest in a green roof.
More Energy Efficient
A green roof is constructed by placing a protective membrane over the roof deck. While the membrane is designed to promote water flow (irrigation), it also protects the roof from water infiltration and moisture build-up. This added layer of insulation helps reduce the amount of energy used to heat and cool a home by regulating temperature fluctuations on the surfaces of a roof. A home that is energy-efficient typically has a greater resale value.
Extended Roof Lifespan
While the initial cost of a living roof might be considerably more, depending on the type and style selected, it can extend the life of the roof up to three times than the lifespan of a conventional roofing system.
Sound Barrier
Installing a green roof acts as a sound barrier, especially if you in a noisy metro Vancouver neighbourhood. A conventional roofing system is made up of hard surfaces that reflect and amplify sounds. On the other hand, living roofs absorb sound, operating as an insulator and reducing noise pollution.
Problems with Gutters
The conventional roof is designed to shed rainwater as quickly as possible, depositing runoff into the gutters. Green roofs absorb water. This can help reduce or even eliminate common gutter system problems such as overflowing gutters, blocked downspouts, and clogged gutter channels.
Fire Resistant
In order for vegetation to survive, the plants, grasses and low-growing shrubs must be watered. The built-in irrigation elements of a green roof allow enough moisture to sustain plant life while inhibiting water infiltration. This results in a roof that catches fire and then burns at a slower rate than conventional roofs.
