Roof Gardens: Green and Brown Roofs – The Differences and Benefits
Living roofs are soaring in popularity, both in residential and commercial projects, due not only to their aesthetics, but also the many environmental benefits they bring to the building. You will note if you visit horticultural events such as Chelsea or denver roofer Hampton Court Flower Shows that many of the show gardens incorporate green roofs in some way, which is always a good indication of future trends. Here is a brief guide, explaining firstly what green roofs and brown roofs are, before detailing their uses and benefits.
Green Roofs
Green Roofs are basically roofs which incorporate planting, often sedum or wildflower and meadow planting, grasses and mosses. In fact, some can even be planted with trees and shrubs. The Roof Gardens in Kensington is a prime example of this. Installing a green roof creates a vegetated surface which provides colour and interest throughout the year. Often, living roofs are used in rural settings and in areas where the buildings need to blend into the background. Green roofs will either be planted or seeded.
There are of course many considerations before installing a green roof, primarily ensuring your roof is suitable, and ensuring it is completely watertight. It is always recommended to get a professional company carry out the work, as you could do more harm than good if not done properly.
Of course, living roofs/wildflower and meadow roofs create a dramatic visual impact, but they also have many other benefits.
Benefits of Green Roofs
- Photosynthesis – the process of plants absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. This is of particular benefit in urban areas.
- Filter pollutants and dust from the surrounding area, again, a huge benefit in urban areas.
- Green or living roofs act as an insulating layer on your roof. You should therefore expect to spend less on your energy bills, thus reducing your carbon footprint.
- Increase in biodiversity – encourage animals such as bees, butterflies and birds into the area. With the current bee crisis, any opportunity to encourage bees into the area is a huge benefit.
- Living roofs can be fitted with bird boxes to encourage birds, often endangered species, into the area and give them a safe environment to nest.