How to Save Energy With Green Roofs

A green roof is a building roof covered in vegetation. Beneath the vegetation is a waterproofing membrane or layer that prevents water and soil from entering the interior of the building. These gardens are designed to make more efficient use of natural energy conservation techniques. By incorporating a green roof into building design, the building becomes part of a localized ecosystem.

Instructions

How to Save Energy with Green Roofs

1. Determine the type of green roof you can use for your building. An intensive green roof has a soil depth of 12 inches or more. The interior of the building must include structural support for an intensive green roof.

   An extensive green roof requires 2 to 4 inches of soil. These are more commonly used, and they can be applied to existing roofs. Consult an architect and green roof specialist before installation.

2. Use the highest grade waterproofing membrane available. This is the first layer of protection between the green roof vegetation and the roofing material. The membrane acts as the supporting layer of insulation between the roofing material and the vegetation. This layer also reduces heating and cooling leaks from the interior of your building.

3. Use a drainage system to ensure the soil remains in place and to direct excess rainwater to storage tanks. The excess rainwater can be used to water your landscape or even flush your toilet.

4. Use an appropriate growing medium, or soil, for the vegetation. The growing medium should support indigenous plant life. The growing medium provides a stable platform for plant life. It also acts as an absorbing layer of insulation for sunlight, thus reducing the cost of cooling your building.

5. Use grass, flowers, herbs and vegetables separately or in combinations depending on your climate. The presence of the greenery provides insulation for your home, protects your roofing material from direct exposure to heat and cold, reduces urban island heat effect and encourages local ecosystem animal life, both microscopic and aviary.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult an architect and green roof specialist before installing a green roof.