Why Homeowners and Businesses are Going Green
Ready to add some eco-friendly flair and increase the value of your home or business? Look no further than green roofs. This sustainable trend is taking off due to its environmental benefits, cost efficiency, and hassle-free installation.
Let’s explore this popular option in detail so you can decide if it is right for you.
What Are Green Roofs?
Green roofs, also known as living roofs or vegetated roofs, are an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional roofing materials.
They are made from a combination of waterproofing and root-repellent layers that provide insulation for the building below and help keep heat in during cold weather. On top of this is soil covered with vegetation, which can range from grasses to shrubs and even trees depending on the size of the green roof.
Not only do these features provide environmental benefits such as improved air quality and stormwater management, but they also make buildings look more attractive than traditional flat black tar-covered rooftops.
Green roofs can reduce energy costs by providing natural insulation while adding greenery to urban environments where space is often limited.
Additionally, they require less maintenance than traditional roofing systems due to their self-sufficient nature.
Green roofs can often require little or no maintenance beyond occasional weeding, fertilising and pruning of the vegetation. Unlike traditional flat black tar-covered rooftops, green roofs do not need to be regularly cleaned or replaced due to their self-sufficient nature. Since they are designed to retain water and absorb rainwater, green roofs help
With all these advantages it’s no wonder that green roofs have become increasingly popular in recent years.
What Are the Benefits of a Green Roof?
Green roofs offer many benefits that are both environmental and economic. Some of the most notable benefits include:
- Improved insulation – A green roof can help improve the insulation of your home or business, which can lead to decreased energy costs.
- Reduced cooling costs – Green roofs also help to reduce cooling costs, as the vegetation helps to keep the building cooler in the summer months.
- Decreased stormwater runoff – Green roofs help to reduce stormwater runoff by absorbing rainfall and allowing it to slowly filter back into the ground. This can help to reduce flooding and soil erosion.
- Improved air quality – The green roof vegetation helps filter out pollutants and improve air quality.
- Extended roof life – Green roofs can help extend your roof’s life by protecting it from UV rays, wind, and heavy rainfall.
Green roofs offer many advantages compared to traditional roofing systems.
Not only do they provide environmental benefits such as improved air quality and stormwater management, but they also require less maintenance which saves time and money. Additionally, green roofs are aesthetically pleasing additions to urban environments where space is often limited by providing greenery and natural insulation.
The Cost of Installing a Green Roof
The cost of installing a green roof will vary depending on the size and type of roof and the kind of vegetation you choose. However, on average, you can expect to pay between £50 and £200 per square metre for a green roof installation.
The initial cost of installing a green roof may be higher than that of a traditional roof. Still, it’s important to remember that green roofs offer many long-term benefits.
For example, the improved insulation and reduced cooling costs can significantly save your energy bills each year.
Installing a green roof is a big decision, but it can be worth the investment.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Assess your needs – The first step in installing a green roof is to determine what type of vegetation will work best for your property.
- Choose the right contractor – Be sure to choose a qualified and experienced contractor with experience installing green roofs.
- Get multiple quotes – Get multiple quotes from different contractors before making your final decision.
- Consider the long-term benefits – Don’t forget to consider the long-term benefits of a green roof when deciding. The upfront cost may be higher, but the long-term savings can be significant.
Green roofs offer many benefits that can save you money in the long run.
What Are the Different Types of Green Roofs?
There are two main types of green roofs: intensive and extensive.
- Intensive green roofs require more maintenance and typically have a thicker layer of vegetation.
- Conversely, extensive green roofs have a thinner layer of vegetation and require less maintenance.
Green roofs are composed of several layers, each with its own function.
- The first layer is a waterproof membrane which prevents water from entering the building below.
- Above this is a root repellent to prevent roots from penetrating the waterproofing layer.
- Next is an insulation layer, designed to reduce energy costs by keeping the heat in during cold weather and out during hot weather.
- On top of this is a drainage layer which helps retain water and absorb rainwater to keep the vegetation healthy.
- Finally, the soil is spread on the roof and covered with vegetation such as grasses, shrubs or trees depending on the size of the green roof.
What Type of Vegetation Can Be Used on a Green Roof?
The type of vegetation you choose for your green roof will depend on your needs and your area’s climate. Some popular kinds of vegetation include:
- Grasses – Grasses are a popular choice for green roofs, as they require little maintenance and are drought-tolerant.
- Sedums – Sedums are succulents known for their drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions.
- Wildflowers – Wildflowers are a popular choice for their colourful blooms and low maintenance requirements.
- Ferns – Ferns are a popular choice for their lush, green foliage and ability to thrive in shady areas.
- Mosses – Mosses are a popular choice for their ability to retain moisture and resist drought conditions.
No matter what type of vegetation you choose, consult with a qualified contractor to ensure it is suitable for your climate and roof type.
What Is the Process of Installing a Green Roof?
Installing a green roof is relatively straightforward, but working with a qualified contractor is essential to ensure the job is done correctly.
- The first step is to remove the existing roofing material and replace it with a watertight membrane.
- Next, the insulation is installed, and the vegetation is added.
- Finally, the soil is added, and the foliage is watered.
How Long Do Green Roofs Last?
The lifespan of a green roof will depend on the type of roof, the climate, and the type of vegetation used.
However, on average, you can expect a green roof to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years.
Although the initial cost of installing a green roof may be higher than that of a traditional roof, green roofs offer many long-term benefits that can save you money.
For example, the improved insulation and reduced cooling costs can significantly save your energy bills each year.
How Local Councils are Encouraging Homeowners and Businesses to Go Green
According to a report from the UK Green Building Council, green roofs are increasingly popular in the UK due to their many benefits. In 2018 alone, there were over 650 projects completed in the country involving green roofs. This figure is expected to continue rising as more and more people become aware of the energy-saving, insulation, and wildlife habitat benefits associated with installing a green roof. This growth has been mainly driven by local authorities who are investing heavily in green infrastructure initiatives.
Local councils across the UK have been introducing grants and subsidies for homeowners and businesses who want to install green roofs. Additionally, companies providing these services have seen an increase in requests for their services as well as enquiries from interested potential customers wanting information about cost, installation requirements and other details.
Working Examples from Across the UK
Green roofs have been successfully installed in many urban environments in the United Kingdom. For example, The National Trust’s Wicken Fen Nature Reserve has a green roof visitor centre made up of grasses and wildflowers which help to insulate the building and attract wildlife. Additionally, Plymouth City Council has installed 11 green roofs across their city which provide insulation and help to reduce stormwater runoff. Finally, the Eden Project in Cornwall has a living roof made up of shrubs and meadow plants which provides a natural habitat for local wildlife.
We’re not just any roofers. We’re green roofers.
Are you looking for a way to protect your building from the elements, conserve energy and reduce maintenance costs? If so, then green roofs are the perfect solution. With their self-sufficient nature, green roofs help retain water and absorb rainwater which reduces stormwater runoff and improves air quality. Additionally, their natural insulation helps to keep heat in during cold weather and out during hot weather which can reduce energy costs. Furthermore, green roofs are aesthetically pleasing additions to urban environments, providing greenery and natural habitat for local wildlife. With so many benefits, it’s not surprising that green roofs have become increasingly popular in recent years.
If you’re considering installing a green roof, contact our experienced professionals at Aspect Flat Roofing.
We can help you choose the proper vegetation type and ensure that your roof is installed correctly to maximise its benefits. So give us a call today to learn more.