(2 votes, average: 3.50 out of 5)
Loading ...Last week I wrote about the cooling benefits of grass and touched on the green architectural benefits of having a green roof. I thought it would be interesting to take that a step further and brought in an expert on the subject. Sarah Mills is an environmental consultant in Southern California helping governments, educational institutions, and businesses begin or expand their sustainability initiatives. These are the questions I asked and Sarah’s answers.
Q: What are the advantages of planting turf grass on your roof?
A: There are many economical and environmental advantages to planting a “living” or “green” roof. Green roofs planted with turf grass provide insulation that saves on energy use and heating and cooling bills. Green roofs also reduce storm water runoff, create wildlife habitats and are an important solution to combating the heat island effect in urban areas. Additionally, green roofs typically last longer than conventional roofs and can add value to your property.
Q: What are the maintenance requirements?
A: Your green roof requires the same maintenance as required for traditional lawns: proper irrigation, mowing, and weed control.
Q: Geographically, where does this work best in the U.S.?
A: Theoretically, turf grass roofs can work anywhere. Environmentally, turf grass works well in areas that receive adequate rainfall, such as the Pacific Northwest. Other materials, such as sedum or wildflowers, can be used more effectively in areas with limited natural water supply.
Q: Is this used in residential structures or just commercial and municipal buildings?
A: Green roofs can be used successfully on residential or commercial buildings and work best on buildings and homes with relatively flat roofs. The soil and maintenance requirements of green roofs made from turf grass make them better suited for larger commercial buildings.
Q: Are there any disadvantages or specific things to consider about the structure of the building/house?
A: Though green roofs can weigh less than conventional roofing material, you’ll want to make sure your building can support the weight of the soil and plant material. You should also research building codes in your area to review local regulations regarding installing green roofs.
