Green Roofs: Make Your Home a Natural Habitat

First off, these aren't just shingles painted green, but the term alone can have many definitions. It can be roofing constructed from recycled materials. It can be a surface equipped with environmentally-friendly solar panels. Or, sometimes, it can be referred to as a roof garden (a flat rooftop equipped with potted plants and flower beds). But more commonly a green roof is a completely planted surface on top of any manmade structure, wherein there are no traditional materials (tiles or shingles) at use. Instead, the entire roof deck is made up of soil which is then planted with vegetations.

Structural Technology
Green roofs allow previously wasted square footage to be turned into usable space. But if you're curious about how it all works, the short answer is "layering". The roof deck of your home is covered with a waterproof barrier which also works to impede any root infiltration. Next, a drainage layer is installed, helping to move water away from your home. Then, soil is introduced along with any vegetation you wish. Though this is the basic structure, there are limitless options in terms of design. You can install grass, plants, trees, shrubs, etc. But to get you started, here are a couple basic types to consider:
Extensive: An extensive green roof is the most common because it's the most self-sufficient. It usually lies on flat roofs with roughly 2-4 inches of soil. Typically the plant life is smaller, low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and resembles a lawn.
Intensive: This high-profile style of roofing uses more variety of plant life which tends to need more care. Typically more expensive because larger plants are used, the soil has to be thickened as well in order to create additional support. Depending on the vegetation, the support system of your house, and any extra architectural accents (waterfalls, gazebos, etc.), the soil depth could range anywhere from 6 inches to several feet.

Beauty in Savings
Not only are green roofs unique and visually stunning, they also have many ecological and economic benefits. Here are few to keep in mind:

Environmental Benefits
Stormwater Runoff: Soil and vegetation absorb rainfall and slowly releases it over time. Therefore, it controls flooding, sewer overflow, and overall soil erosion.
Filtration: Plant life naturally filters pollutants from rainwater before it enters into rivers and streams. Plus, it filters the air for quality, creating a healthier living environment.
Temperature Control: Traditional roofing can add to the problem of over-heating, especially in cities where "urban heat islands" are created. Vegetated roofing captures heat, reduces temperatures, and can increase the air's moisture level.
Acoustic Insulation: Soil and vegetation are great for sound proofing. In fact, they're often installed near airports or busy freeways to help absorb the noise.
Habitat: They provide habitats for wildlife, such as birds, insects, and small mammals.

Economic Benefits
Resilient: Since they protect your house from UV rays and extreme temperatures (which is the cause of most roof damage) they can last twice as long as traditional roofs.
Energy Efficient: They provide natural thermal insulation, which can help you save on energy costs. It's like being underground, creating natural shade and absorbing solar heat.
Curb Appeal: They're distinct and eye-catching, which helps add value to your home.
Incentives: The government has become more aware of these benefits, and as a result, they're beginning to create grants and tax breaks to homeowners willing to convert their traditional roofing. Do some research in your community's policy, and if they don't have incentive programs, then write a letter to your local government to encourage it.

Installation and Maintenance
Any pre-existing roof can be converted but make sure you hire a professional who knows how these systems work. And though they can be put on any pitch, the steeper the top of your house the tougher the installation. Vegetated covers can range anywhere from $10-$40, depending on the structure and the plant life. While they can be fire hazards during dry seasons, they are also great at absorbing water during wet weather (saving you money on gutter systems). But just like a lawn, you will now need to water, fertilize, and weed the top of your house as well. Who would have thought?