A green, or living roof, is a popular trend that is more commonly seen on larger commercial buildings where the roof has a larger footprint. These roofs are a layer of vegetation that grows on your rooftop, but away from the structural components of the roof. A small-scale option might be a good choice for your home in Tacoma, Port Orchard, and Gig Harbor.
There are two different types of green roofs.
Intensive Green Roofs: these roofs are usually accessible and are often used as rooftop gardens. Some even include trees and bushes.
Extensive Green Roofs: these are thinner and lighter in weight and are usually home to native grasses and plants.
Green roofs are a great way to insulate your building or home and help with stormwater management. Here are some of the benefits of a green roof.
1. Better Stormwater. Green roofs help to filter the rainwater that falls onto your roof. This water that would normally just drip off your roof and into the storm drain, is filtered before it makes its way to Puget Sound.
2. Better Insulation, A green roof reduces the temperature of your roof, making it easier to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
3. Better for the Environment. Vegetation on your roof removes pollutants, helps produce oxygen, and keeps the air clean.
4. Better for Birds and Insects. Green roofs provide a food source and protection for birds and insects. With the bee population dwindling, green roofs can offer bees much-needed pollen for them to continue.
What we want you to understand is that these roofs are maintenance-free, especially for the first two years. They require proper maintenance, which can include irrigation and inspection for dead plants or weeds. Once the plants are established, maintenance requirements do become simpler.
Now, we know what you’re wondering. What does this all cost? According to The Environmental Protection Agency the cost of a green roof at $10 to $25 per square foot. That’s not cheap, but the benefits of these roofs will be seen for decades to come.
If you’re considering a green roof, give us a call. We would be happy to talk through your options.