Today, green roofs are becoming increasingly popular in both domestic and commercial properties. Not only do they look great, but they are also an energy efficient and environmentally friendly roof solution. A green roof is a top surface of a building that is covered with vegetation, planted over a waterproofing membrane. Below we take a look at four reasons you should consider a green roof for your property.
Increase the lifespan of a roof
Your roof has to deal with a lot: strong winds, lots of rain, fluctuating temperatures (from hot summers to harsh winters), not to mention ultraviolet light and the occasional drop of snow. In fact, your rooftop is constantly under attack from the elements, so it’s no surprise that they require regular maintenance and sometimes need replacing.
Choosing a green roof for your domestic or commercial property can actually double or even triple the life expectancy of your rooftop. The layer of green vegetation provides an extra layer to protect the waterproof membrane underneath, extending the rooftops life expectancy and ensuring that it will last for many years to come.
Energy efficient
Choosing a green roof for your property can help you save money on those ever-costly energy bills. During the summer, a green roof protects a building from direct solar heat, which will help to keep your property cool. The overall temperature of your roof is reduced during summer due to plants absorbing the sun’s energy.
A green roof also adds extra insulation on your roof, minimising heat loss and helping to keep your home warm when it is cold outside. As air conditioning and heating systems create carbon dioxide, investing in a green roof results in fewer greenhouse gas emissions, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Improve air quality
Air pollution is a big issue in the UK. Did you know that each year, 24,000 people die from air pollution? In large cities and urban areas, air pollution is a major problem. Investing in a green roof will help to improve the overall air quality, helping to reduce nitrous acid, sulfur dioxide and dust particles.
Improve drainage system
Every building needs a sustainable drainage system in order to counter flooding during periods of excessive rainfall. Green roofs offer many benefits when it comes to developing a sustainable drainage system for your building. Water is stored in plants and substrate and then released naturally back into the environment. This helps to reduce the risk of flooding – an ever growing concern due to the increase of urban development.
If you want to reap the benefits of a green roof, look no further than Cooper & Williams. We can create grass roofs, including seeding and turfing, to suit properties of different sizes and nature. First established in 1970, we have been providing homes and businesses in Shrewsbury and Shropshire with quality roofing services for years. For more information about us, visit our website.
