Green Roofs

Ok, let this be your notice – this is longer than most blog posts.  I think it is an interesting topic and I have people at Inman Green ask me all the time,  “What is a Live Roof? Inman Green has a roof that is partially covered with vegetation (Live Roof®).

You can see the vegetation along the side walls.

“Green roofs help reduce the Urban Heat Island Effect, a condition in which city and suburban developments absorb and trap heat. Anyone who has walked across a scalding parking lot on a hot, summer day has felt one effect of an Urban Heat Island.” (from Howstuffworks.com)

What are the benefits of a Live Roof® or green roof?

• Green roofs protect the roof from the sun, wind, heat and cold and can extend the life of the roof.
• Reduce air conditioning costs.
• Provide sound insulation.
• Provide aesthetic appeal and many environmental benefits.
• Reduce the effects of Global Warming.
• Keep pollutants out of our lakes.
• Helps replace plants that may have been present prior to building construction.

Another question that onsite visitors give me is, “Can I install this on the roof of an older home?”.  I always direct them to LiveRoof.com. The answer to that question is… it depends on the load capacity of your existing roof.  A qualified engineer can help a homeowner make that decision.

You may also be wondering what type of plants are used on a green roof? The answer to that question depends on the zone that you live in.  It is desirable to have plants that are low maintenance, disease and insect resistant and drought tolerant.  Succulents work very well for green/live roof systems.

In case you’re thinking … how would I water this roof? Watch this video.

What about other maintenance issues like weeding?  And drainage? Watch this video to learn more.

“Green roofs have been around for millennia. But as the planet heats up and green space dwindles, they are gaining in popularity in the U.S. and abroad.” (Alternet.org)

Disclaimer:  This information is from sources believed reliable.