There are more than 1 million square feet of green roofs in Washing D.C. alone, according to a study by the Green Roofs for Healthy Cities association. What was started in Europe has spread across the world, a fight for a healthier climate, starting with our homes and businesses.
Green roofs come with a multitude of benefits. Though they are more complicated to construct than regular roofing, it is possible to incorporate one onto your home. If you want to save money and help our planet, read on to learn what a green rooftop can do for you.
How to Set up a Green Rooftop
When considering a green rooftop, the first thing is to talk to a professional roofer to see what they think is possible for your particular roof. They can help you create your green rooftop while complying with all necessary roof specifications and details.
A green rooftop requires the best drainage. Generally, they will be on a flat or slightly sloped roof. The vegetation of your choice will be placed over a waterproofing system. This waterproofing system acts as an extension of your existing roof. It will involve a drainage and filter system, a growing medium, and your plants.
Depending on the climate, you must choose an intensive and extensive system. An intensive system can grow a wide range of plants, whereas an extension can only accommodate drought-specific plants.
Green Rooftop Benefits
A rooftop green space has a variety of benefits. Green roofs work to lessen water runoff and prevent sewer overflows. The vegetation absorbs and filters the water that would otherwise go down gutters and into the sewers.
This allows these green spaces to create more oxygen, remove air particles, improve stormwater management, create shade to provide insulation for your home, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase the life of your roof. The economic and environmental benefits outweigh the hassles of switching to green roofs.
Energy-Efficient Roofing
If your building is not eligible for a green roof now, there are still things you can do to save money and help the planet. Consider switching your current roofing to energy-efficient roofing. Asphalt roofing is not as energy efficient as metal roofing, as it does not provide the same amount of insulation.
Cool roof coatings are also ways to cool down your roofing. These are white pigments that reflect sunlight. They are very thick coatings that help prevent the surface of your roof from experiencing UV light and chemical damage. This could be a great alternative if you cannot switch your roofing to a green or energy-efficient roof. It will still save you money and keep the planet cool.
Green Rooftops in the Future
Green roofs are becoming more widely available each year. Some places are even requiring that new buildings be built with a green rooftops. If you are looking for a great way to save yourself tons of money and keep the planet healthy, green rooftops are the way to go. Contact us today, and we can help you on your green rooftop journey.