Green Roof Factors

Soil structure for green roof media.

Green roof factors.

The variability of green roof designs and climates in the united states makes it impractical to list every possible plant candidate for extensive green roofs. When designing a green roof there are several factors to take into consideration. A green roof also known as a rooftop garden or a living roof is a vegetative layer grown on a rooftop. As a general rule potentially suitable species can be found by looking at the microclimate media depth solar levels water availability etc of the green roof in question and.

Do you have to mow a green roof. If your project is required to meet the seattle green factor you must reach a minimum score established by the zoning of your property. You can choose from a menu of landscape credits for various features including green roofs rain gardens vegetated walls and trees and shrubs. Equally important in plant selection is the purpose of the green roof and the reason for installing it whether it is storm water management energy conservation heat island reduction aesthetics or a combination of these factors.

Soil depth and whether the roof will have initial or continued irrigation will also need to be factored in. Efficient irrigation is not expected to decrease stormwater benefits of green roofs since lusher vegetation and moister soils provide greater evapotranspiration. You do not need to mow a green roof and most are fairly low maintenance. Green roofs or living roofs have become popular over the years.

Green roofs often outlast conventional roofs by many years. Understanding the desired biodiversity and habitat is a major factor in selecting a green roof system. Intensive green roofs almost always need a permanent irrigation system depending on factors such as project goals and plant palette. Biodiversity is also closely tied to everything from water management to insulation.

02 02 2015 take control of these factors to curtail environmental impacts and reduce energy and lifecycle costs on all roofs extra protection for walkways on the roof right is a significant factor in service life and lifecycle cost. Insulation boards below should be staggered so edge seams are covered. This is because they provide ecological benefits aesthetic value and creative urban architecture. Container gardens on roofs where plants are maintained in pots are not generally considered to be true green roofs although.

A green roof or living roof is a roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium planted over a waterproofing membrane it may also include additional layers such as a root barrier and drainage and irrigation systems. What is a green roof made of. The popularity of green roofs has increased in the united states due to their many benefits while pretty green roofs serve a much greater purpose than simple beautification. 6 factors to assess green roofs.

A general understanding of the bioregion species requirements and planting can help inform clients which system makes the most sense. How long do green roofs last.