The green roof

The installation of a green roof is a good way to green cities in order to improve the quality of life of the inhabitants. This type of structure would also reduce expenses related to air conditioning in the summer. What is it really and what are its benefits?

What is a green roof?

As its name suggests, a green roof is simply a roof covered with green plants. It is generally appreciated for its aesthetic side, especially if the plants are well maintained, as well as for the many advantages it brings to several aspects of life. In addition, it is ideally installed on a flat or very slightly inclined roof, that is to say no more than 30°. It is always recommended to seek the advice of an architect before opting for this type of covering.

What precautions should you take if you opt for a green roof?

The plant substrates that will be planted weigh down the roof. Therefore, it is essential that the structure and the frame are particularly solid to avoid the risk of collapse in the long term.

Also, it is necessary to install a waterproof and resistant protective layer between the plants and the frame in order to preserve the latter against mold and to prevent it from rotting. In general, current builders use plastic sheeting or heat-sealed waterproof elements.

What are the advantages of the green roof?

As we have seen above, the green roof brings many advantages in many areas. Let's do a check in.

Green roof and health

Plants planted on the roof absorb carbon dioxide, retain any pollutants such as lead or even airborne matter such as dust and produce oxygen. In other words, they improve the quality of the air we breathe and thus reduce the risk of disease, including respiratory ailments.

Green roof and comfort

A well-made green roof is an excellent thermal and sound insulator. On the one hand, this type of roof contributes to the reduction of the temperature of the ambient air in the house. Indeed, a membrane covered with plants is maintained at a temperature of approximately 20°C even if it is exposed to the Sun.

At the same time, the green roof reduces the expenses related to air conditioning in summer. On the other hand, it absorbs sound waves and thus reduces the impact of noise from the outside environment, especially in town.

Green roof and preservation of the structure

The thermal shock generated by the contact between the cold rain and the hot roof can lead to more or less significant damage to the latter as well as its weakening. According to studies, the presence of plants reduces temperature variations by more than 30% and therefore extends the life of the roof.

Green roof and water flows

Finally, a green roof retains a large part of the rainwater, which reduces the risk of basement flooding during wet periods. Indeed, after the absorption of the water by the plants and the evaporation, only a small quantity will be drained towards the sewers and the basements.