What are the disadvantages of green roofs?

Disadvantages of green roofs A greater expense than traditional roofs. Unfortunately for green roofs, they do tend to be slightly more expensive than the traditional option. ... An increase in weight load. ... Require extra maintenance.

greenroofers.co.uk - Advantages and disadvantages of green roofs

Are Keter sheds damp proof?

All Keter sheds are waterproof and weather resistant, making them perfect for everyday storage of garden furniture and equipment. Aug 6, 2020

Last updated Apr 6, 2019

Does grass grow through crushed concrete?

Although the concrete is crushed into a sand-like texture, it's too heavy for use in soil when growing a grass lawn. For that reason, grass will...

Last updated Nov 4, 2019

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

Improve the drainage system

Sustainable drainage is an important component of any building, as a way to counter flooding in the event of excess rainfall. Traditionally, a network of pipes connected to the sewage system has helped control water. However, as a result of increasing urban development, as much as 75% of water is running off into urban areas. Global warming isn’t helping the cause either and the risk of flooding is heightened throughout the UK. To counter this threat, green roofs are a terrific option. Water is stored in plants and substrate, before being released back into the environment naturally.

Increase the lifespan of the roof

A rooftop is continually under attack from the elements and has plenty to cope with throughout the year. Not only will a roof need to sufficiently deal with wind and rain, but ultraviolet light and fluctuating temperatures too. As such, it’s common for both homeowners and businesses to consider an alternative option for the roof. Green roofs offer this opportunity and have proved to double or even triple the life expectancy of your rooftop. The barrier of greenery helps protect the waterproof membrane underneath and ensure your rooftop’s life expectancy lasts well for decades.

Boosting thermal performance

Without doubt, one of a green roof’s most beneficial advantages is thermal performance and it’s staggering just how much of a difference this can make. One of the biggest problems facing a typical roof is poor insulation, leading to substantial heat loss in winter and sweltering conditions over the summer months. This all changes with the aid of a green roof. By implementing a green roof you can ensure to improve energy efficiency and limit the usage of air conditioning too. Plants absorb the sun’s energy and therefore reduce the temperature of the roof in summer, whilst aiding thermal efficiency in the colder winter by locking heat inside.

Helping out the environment

The release of carbon dioxide is one of the key contributing factors to global warming and as such, the government has been charged with meeting stringent EU targets by 2020. Green roofs are ideal for doing exactly this. According to the UKQBC, 44% of total CO2 emissions are released from buildings. In a similar vein to the point above, green roofs reduce the need for air conditioning, whilst also ensuring less heat is required for the winter. Both air con and the generation of heat create CO2.

Supporting wildlife habitats

Green roofs also help support wildlife and in turn, can create a healthy habitat. Whilst they won’t directly replace ground environments, they’re perfect for attracting birds and other wildlife to create a thriving eco-friendly habitat. Each green roof will support varying habitats, dependent largely on the type of vegetation included. According to a survey in Switzerland, the study of 11 green rooftops found there to be an incredible 172 separate species.

Aiding air quality

Air pollution remains an important issue in the UK and staggeringly there are some 24,000 who die from this every year. As you would expect, air pollution is a greater problem in urban areas, especially the larger cities such as London and Birmingham. A green roof helps to improve the overall air quality. According to a study, green roofs help reduce up to:

Why are walls so thick in old houses?

Older homes (built in the 1920s and '30s) have thicker walls than today's homes because of different construction methods. While some homes from...

Last updated Jul 23, 2018

What is the difference between a vapor barrier and a moisture barrier?

Moisture barriers function to help in preventing water from entering inside of the wall cavity. On the other hand, vapor barriers basically prevent...

Last updated May 15, 2021