Green roof, grass roof

Green roofs, like the grass roof pictured above, are becoming an increasingly important requirement for builders, planners and homeowners. Recent costings indicate that over the entire lifetime of a roof, green roofs cost the same or less than conventional roofing and so perhaps we need to stop thinking of them as an expensive, hippy, alternative and start taking them seriously.

Even if green roofs, sedum roofs and grass roofs are only cost neutral with conventional roofing methods - the other benefits they provide are make them far and away the best option overall.

High water retention
water is released from the roof more slowly helping to prevent damage by flash flooding and high rainfall

Improves biodiversity
provides a habitat for animals and plants. Especially important in urban areas with little green space.

Improves environment
• Absorbs greenhouse gases.
• Absorbs air pollution and dust.
• Cools and humidifies the surrounding air.

Recycled materials
• Many of the materials used in green roof construction are manufactured from recycled building materials, plastics and rubber which helps to reduce landfill disposal.

Insulation
• Extra insulation helps to retain heat and therefore reduces heating bills
• Insulating effect also reduces noise levels - which is especially important in urban areas

Interestingly green roofs are not a new idea. In fact, like many of the best 'new ideas' they have been standard construction practice in some countries for hundreds (maybe thousands!) of years. In the cold climates of Iceland and Scandinavia sod roofs helped to retain a building 's heat, while in warm countries such as Tanzania, they keep buildings cool.

Until the mid-20th century green roofs were viewed mainly as a vernacular building practice. However in the 1960 's, rising concerns about environment and the lack of green space in urban areas renewed interest in green roofs as a "green solution". The renaissance began in Germany and Switzerland where new technical research began into plant suitability, membranes etc.

Today, green roofs are a serious proposition for homeowners, planners and builders. If you want to find out more, click on the links below:

UK LINKS

The Green Roof Centre

Living Roofs

US LINKS

GreenRoofs.com