The green roof
Installing a green roof is a good way to green cities in order to improve the quality of life of residents. This type of structure would also reduce expenses related to air conditioning in summer. What is it really and what are its benefits?
What is a green roof?
As its name suggests, a green roof is simply a roof covered with green plants. It is generally appreciated for its aesthetic side, especially if the plants are well maintained, as well as for the many benefits it brings to several aspects of life. Furthermore, it is ideally installed on a flat or very slightly inclined roof, that is to say no more than 30°. It is always recommended to seek the advice of an architect before opting for this type of covering.
What precautions should you take if you opt for a green roof?
The plant substrates that will be planted weigh down the roof. Therefore, it is essential that the structure and the frame are particularly solid to avoid the risk of collapse in the long term.
Also, it is necessary to install a waterproof and resistant protective layer between the plants and the frame in order to protect the latter against mold and prevent it from rotting. In general, current manufacturers use plastic sheeting or heat-welded waterproof elements.
What are the advantages of a green roof?
As we saw above, the green roof brings many advantages in many areas. Let's do a check in.
Green roof and health
Plants planted on the roof absorb carbon dioxide, retain possible pollutants such as lead or even airborne matter such as dust and produce oxygen. In other words, they improve the quality of the air we breathe and thus reduce the risk of diseases, particularly respiratory conditions.
Green roof and comfort
A well-made green roof represents an excellent thermal and sound insulator. On the one hand, this type of roof helps reduce the ambient air temperature in the house. In fact, a membrane covered with plants is maintained at a temperature of around 20°C even if it is exposed to the Sun.
At the same time, the green roof reduces expenses related to air conditioning in summer. On the other hand, it absorbs sound waves and thus reduces the impact of noise coming from the external environment, especially in the city.
Green roof and preservation of the structure
The thermal shock caused by contact between cold rain and the hot roof can cause more or less significant damage to the latter as well as its weakening. According to studies, the presence of plants reduces temperature variations by more than 30% and therefore extends the lifespan of the roof.
Green roof and water flow
Finally, a green roof retains a large part of rainwater, which reduces the risk of flooding basements during wet periods. Indeed, after water absorption by plants and evaporation, only a small amount will be drained into sewers and basements.