Residential Green Roof Design

A green roof is simply one that fosters the growth of vegetation.

Residential green roof design.

Since then there s been an inspiring generation of eco savvy design forward residential green roofs from cactus garden to rain forest topping everything from chicken coops to full blown homes. Has had the opportunity to work on some amazing residential green roof projects. Most residential green roofs feature crops of hardy low lying plants such as chives sedum delosperma and talinum. These tend to be our favorites because each residential project is unique.

In the most basic sense green roofs are a layered combination of vegetation and membrane over a building that can help insulate and provide water management. Vegetative roofs also known as green roofs are thin layers of living vegetation installed on top of conventional flat or sloping roofs. A deeper or more specialized roof. From the most basic cave like forms and sod roofs of ancient structures to modern rooftop parks spanning thousands of feet green roofs have shaped architecture throughout history.

Green roofs or rooftop solar panels add additional load to a roof and its support system. Residential green roofs such as theirs protect natural waterways from oily street residue by lessening the chances that municipal storm drain systems will overflow. These plants are excellent in providing a natural sponge for water and protecting the roofing material thus adding to its longevity. The existing roof may not be capable of supporting an additional load.

Variables particular to location such as sun and wind exposure seasonal rainfall native vegetation and soil depth determine the most viable plant choice. To ensure structural safety it s necessary to have a structural analysis verify that the roof and its support system are capable of supporting the added load without modification. Planted with hundreds of low growing succulents the little flat roofed extension off their 1925 colonial revival helps slow down and filter rainwater runoff. The average cost for a bare bones green roof including the design permitting and installation will typically run between 18 and 22 per square foot.

Additional resources the intent of this guide is to provide information regarding the state of the art of vegetative roof design and construction. In virginia norfolk botanical garden s green roof uses sedum delosperma and sempervivum.