What to Consider When Planning to Install a Green Roof

In various times, places, and cultures, the “green” roof was the norm. People lived in earthen homes that were sometimes dug out of hillsides or creek banks, and the native grasses and wildflowers grew naturally on top. Other homes had sod or thatched grass roofs. Modern people are discovering the merits of this kind of roofing. If you are planning to install a green roof, here are some things to consider and keep in mind.

1. Types of Green Roofs

Before you begin, you need to determine what kind of green roof you want. Here are some of the various types.

* Extensive – Despite the name, extensive green roofs require less maintenance than the other two types. They are nearly self-sufficient, and require maybe an annual weeding or fertilizing. They are not as heavy as other green roofs, since they require less soil. If an extensive green roof is going to be covered with moss, a thin layer of growing medium such as rockwool is all that is necessary.

* Semi-Intensive – These green roofs require more intensive maintenance – hence the name. Semi-intensive roofs require regular watering, sometimes in the form of irrigation, and regular weeding and fertilizing. They offer more variety than extensive green roofs. Shrubs, perennials, and herbs can be grown on a semi-intensive roof.

* Intensive – This high-maintenance green roofing option offers the most variety of design and flora. Garden paths, rock formations, fountains, and other elaborate additions can be a part of an intensive green roof. Large, flat-topped buildings can even have playgrounds and park-like settings as part of their green roof.

Remember, high-maintenance is not necessarily bad. If you are the kind of person who likes to spend time in a garden – and maybe you don’t have the land to have a regular garden – then an intensive green roof could be a good investment for you.

2. A Weighty Issue

Soil and sod are heavy. Before you get too far into your green roofing project, have a professional determine the strength and weight-bearing capability of your walls. This is especially important if you are installing the green roof over your existing roof.

3. Choose Your Plants

Think about what kinds of plants you want on your green roof. If you want to provide a sanctuary for wildlife such as bees, hummingbirds and butterflies, then plant flowering species. If you are concerned about the surrounding eco-systems and habitats, consider native plantings for your green roof.

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