Well, first of all, what is a living roof?
A living roof, also known as a green roof, is an alternate roof consisting of vegetation and a growing medium with a waterproof barrier covering either the entire area or part of it. It really is a fresh approach to a new roof!
Attributes of a living roof:
- Eco-friendly
- Energy Efficient
- Barrier from greenery protects the roof membrane
Benefits of a green roof:
- Works as an insulator – in summer keeps heat out resulting in less air conditioning needed; in winter keeps heat in
- Improves air quality and contributes to the water cycle
- Keeps things quiet inside by absorbing sound and canceling noise from the outside
- Adds a unique aesthetic feature
- Serves as another space to make a place unlike any other
Drawbacks of a green roof:
- They are heavier! The higher-than-normal weight load will require more structural support. With this, there will be additional planning and preparation costs.
- More maintenance will be required! Depending on rainfall amounts, the roof will need to be watered. Plants will also need fertilizer for growth and possibly pesticides to keep damaging pests away. Plus, weeds will need to be pulled!
Green roofs are usually put on top of an EPDM rubber roof. You can read more about EPDM rubber roofs from the EPDM Roofing Association.
So, are living roofs a good idea? Sure, the idea is good. And for certain situations, it’s the way to go! For others, such as a busy or cost-conscious homeowner, it may require too much maintenance, consume too much time, and adds too much expense. It’s not just a “get a new roof and leave it be” scenario.
If you decide to go with this unique addition to your home, we can help with laying the base of the EPDM rubber roof. Get in touch with us through our website or by phone at 1-800-517-3214.
About Weather Vane Roofing
We provide roofing, siding, insulation, windows, and gutters. Making your house beautiful and efficient is our main goal. We use the latest in technology and products to provide eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions for your home and business. With locations in Lansing, Owosso, and Brighton/Howell we are Mid-Michigan’s roofing experts. Let us transform your house into a home.
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