Green roofs
Green roofs are becoming increasingly popular, especially in urban areas that lack green spaces. It is not only extremely aesthetically pleasing, but also very functional, both for the building itself and its surroundings.
what are the advantages of green roofs?
The aesthetic form of the roof is just one advantage of using green roofs. Of course, their appearance in combination with location is always stunning, regardless of the vegetation on it. Being in such a place certainly gives respite and provides moments of relaxation, which is why green roofs are increasingly common on the roofs of office buildings or commercial places. They are an extraordinary retreat, in which you can spend a few pleasant moments during your work time. We do not need to generate additional space to create a garden in which we can spend time pleasantly. In this way we save money and do not need more land.
However, these are not the only functions of green roofs. The vegetation on them provides excellent thermal insulation in both summer and winter. In summer, the building does not heat up as much as, with traditional roofs. On the other hand, in winter, it does not lose heat as quickly.
Such roofing also provides excellent noise attenuation from the outside, as well as from inside the building.
Thanks to the plants, which provide a kind of protective layer, the roof is no longer so exposed to harmful weather, wind or mechanical action. This significantly increases the life of the roof. Plants also increase the fire resistance of the roofing.
The environment of such a building has a slightly different microclimate. Plants give off moisture, so they lower the temperature especially on hot days. They also filter the air and trap pollutants contained in the environment.
Green roofs also play a huge role in the entire urban drainage system, as much less rainwater enters through their operation. They are often called retention roofs, because they retain rainwater. This is especially important especially when there is very heavy rainfall, and drainage systems in cities are not able to work as quickly.
What kind of plants can be grown on green roofs?
It all depends on the supporting structure of the roof and the possibility of further plant care. High-intensity greening allows planting all possible plants, including trees, on the entire plane of the roof. However, a careful selection of the arrangement of waterproofing layers, as well as those necessary for proper plant care, water collection and drainage of excessive water.
Greening the roof intensive low no longer requires as much investment, for example, there is no longer a need for permanent irrigation systems. However, plants such as perennials, shrubs and lawns still need to be maintained.
The plants that are planted on the roof are the most demanding.
The least demanding is an extensive roof, where plants with the fewest requirements, such as mosses, sedums, fescues, are placed. These plants are able to maintain and grow on their own, so they do not require much care, only 1-2 a year. However, even with the use of such vegetation, the green roof fully performs its functions.
Green roofs are an extraordinary decoration of the building, while providing it with exceptional protection. Therefore, when designing a house or other building, it is worth including it in the project.
