There are two types of green roofs; the vegetated green roof, which is usually installed over a PVC flat roofing membrane such as IB roof. The requirement for the PVC flat roof is that it can sustain pooling water that will not cause roof leaks. It also has to be able to withstand multiple cycles of freezing and re-freezing of the water on the surface of the roofing membrane. The PVC flat roofing membrane by IB roofs, is perfectly suitable for that purpose, because its hot air welded seams are stronger than the membrane itself, and will never leak due to the standing water or ice.

The vegetated roof is quite expensive to install, because it requires planting of the plants and gardens over the surface of the roof, which means that there has to be enough soil for the vegetation to grow. The water arrogation system and the water collection system may also be a part of the functioning and construction of the green vegetative roof.

Green Roof Garden on top of a commercial building

Needless to say, that getting all the systems installed on the roof can be quite pricey. There is a cheaper alternative of using vegetative green containers already containing soil and plants. When using these, you would still have to figure out a functional and effective way to water the plants in case there is not enough rainfall.

Green roof containers comprising a green roof

The biggest benefit of green roofs, is that they provide fresh air, and help mitigate urban heat island effect. They also provide great value in terms of insulation, and energy savings on cooling and heating costs.

The second type of green roof, is the roof that is energy efficient, and environmentally friendly. Thus, a metal roof that is made out of recycled metal, lasts a long time, and provides energy savings would also be considered green. The IB flat roof membrane that is long lasting, cool, environmentally safe and energy efficient is also considered a green flat roofing system.

One of the main advantages is simply the fact that insulation will be significantly improved. Some research that has recently been carried out as indicated that cooling requirements were reduced to just over 25% in the summertime when these types of roofs are installed. In addition, heat losses during the winter months are also reduced by over 25%, leading to dramatic energy savings on both counts.

Alongside the reduction in your energy usage, and therefore monthly expenses, greening your roof will also boost its lifespan by up to 3 times. These types of roofs will shield high temperatures, which can significantly reduce damage that is done due to expanding components when the heat begins to rise.

These roofs have also been shown to retain 75% of the water that falls on them. This will reduce the amount of run-off into the sewer systems, leading to significant water saving in the area in which you live. The water that is contained within your roof will not run-off, but will instead be released back into the atmosphere. This, in turn, will lead to a cleaner and more healthy local environment.

Of course, a green roof can also be very useful if you have a lack of space in your garden. Space is very expensive and if you cannot afford to purchase a home that has plenty of greenery, having a green roof is certainly great option for you. Not only will this give you the opportunity to grow certain crops on the roof, but you can also create a lively habitat for local plants and wildlife.

Of course, the visual and aesthetic appeal of your home will be significantly increased with the addition of a green roof. While it might not necessarily be to everyone’s tastes, most people love the addition of greenery in any home. Not only will this make your home appear more beautiful and colorful, but it may also add value to the home if you were to sell it to the right person.

All in all, you will certainly be doing your part to help save the environment by greening your roof as well. As mentioned, a green roof is far more suitable for the environment and it will be an excellent step for anyone to take if they want to be doing their part.

Aside from this, the money that you save will also be a personal financial benefit to you as well. Not only will you save money through the additional energy that you will save within the home through improved insulation, but you may also be able to make money when you come to sell the home as well.