Do Green Roofs Need Maintenance?

A green roof doesn't have to be high maintenance if it is properly designed and installed. Depending on the elements used in your green roof, you may need to water and fertilize the plants or remove debris from the roof's surface.

So if you're thinking about installing a green roof, don't worry — it won't have to require a lot of extra work! Here's what you need to know about green roofs and maintenance.

As with any area of your property, it's good to do routine checks and preventive maintenance on your green roof. For roofs that feature vegetation, that may mean checking for signs of plant diseases, pests, or moisture accumulation.

What is a green roof and what are the benefits of having one?

A living or vegetative roof, also known as a green roof, consists of living plants growing on top of a building. Green roofs can be found worldwide, and they offer numerous benefits to both people and the environment.

Advantages of green roofs:

Reduce stormwater runoff
Improve air quality
Increase energy efficiency
Extend the life of the roof
Provide habitat for wildlife
Create a more pleasant living environment

Disadvantages of green roofs:

Require a little more maintenance than traditional roofs
Need a few special considerations when installing
Require qualified professionals to install and maintain a green roof

The 3 main components of a green roof system:

Waterproofing Membrane: This is installed over the existing roof to protect it from water damage.
Drainage System: This component collects and removes excess water from the roof.
Growing Medium: This feature provides the soil and other necessary elements for plants and acts as the root barrier.

Keep in mind, there are two types of green roofs: intensive and extensive.

Intensive green roofs are thicker, with a deeper layer of soil and more plants. They are often found in urban areas and can support more types of plants.

Extensive green roofs are thinner, with a shallower layer of soil and fewer plants. They are more common in rural areas and typically support grasses, sedums, and other low-growing plants.

Do green roofs need maintenance?

Green roofs require more maintenance than traditional roofs. However, the amount of maintenance required varies, depending on the type of green roof. An intensive green roof requires regular watering and occasional fertilization. Extensive green roofs are lower-maintenance.

What special considerations are involved when installing a green roof?

There are a few things to keep in mind when installing a green roof. These considerations typically include:

Make sure the roofing framework (rafters) can support the weight of the green roof system.
Choose the right type of green roof for your climate and location.
Consider green roof maintenance requirements before you proceed with installation and material procurement.
Work with a qualified professional to ensure the green roof is properly installed.

Tips for maintaining a green roof

By following a simple green roof maintenance checklist, you can keep your green roof healthy and looking its best without breaking the bank. Here's what we recommend for most green roofs:

Use drought-tolerant plants to reduce the amount of additional water required.
Install an automated irrigation system to reduce the time spent watering the roof.
Remove debris from the roof regularly to avoid accumulation and drainage problems.
Inspect the roof regularly for signs of damage.
Repair any damage as soon as possible to prevent further problems.

For more tips specific to your desired green roof, make sure to speak in depth with your installer, designer, and material providers. They'll be able to provide you with customized care tips.

How to get started with green roofs

A green roof is a great way to save energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and improve the aesthetic of your home or office. But how do you get started with one?

The first step is to consult with a structural engineer. They will assess your building and determine if it can support the weight of a green roof.

Afterwards, you need to choose the type of vegetative roof you want, and then it'll be time to design, purchase, and lay it all out. You'll want to work with certified and experienced partners for all phases of this step. And doing so will ensure a long-lasting green roof that provides added value to your building.

Green roof FAQs

Are green roofs expensive?

The cost of a green roof depends on the project's size and complexity. Green roofs are often more costly than regular roofs. They need unique materials and installation methods. Green roofs also have a shorter lifespan than traditional roofs, especially if they are poorly planned.

Can you walk on a green roof?

Yes, you can walk on a green roof, but you should take care not to damage the plants. Walking on a green roof can also compact the soil, leading to drainage problems.

Can green roofs withstand extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes or blizzards?

Green roofs are designed to withstand bad weather to an extent. However, high winds or unusually heavy snowfall can cause damage. If you live in an area susceptible to extreme weather, make sure your green roof is properly installed and maintained.

How do I know if a green roof is right for my building?

Choosing a green roof for your building requires some forethought. First, consider your local climate. Green roofs thrive in mild temperatures. A green roof may not be the ideal option if your area experiences intense weather. Second, assess your roof's material. Green roofs perform well on level or moderately sloping roofs. Third, consider the weight of a green roof and whether your home can sustain one. Finally, examine the expense. The initial expense for green roofs is more than standard roofs.