A green roof is a roof of a building that is partially or completely covered
with vegetation and soil, or a growing medium, planted over a
waterproofing membrane.
Stormwater Retention
- Regulatory requirements for stormwater management can be met with a green roof
- The growing medium and vegetation absorb rainwater where it is returned to the atmosphere
through transpiration and evaporation
- Green roofs can also act as natural filters for any excess rainwater that happens to run off
- Delays the time at which runoff occurs resulting in decreased stress on sewer systems at peak
flow times
Temperature Control
- Reduced cooling and heating costs
- Protects the roof membranes from harmful UV radiation and heat
- Reduces the size of the HVAC unit necessary and makes for a more efficient heating and
cooling system
- Reduces the urban heat island effect
Improve Air Quality
- The soil, plants, layers of roof membranes, barriers and insulation reduce the noise pollution
for the occupants of commercial buildings
- Through the process of photosynthesis, plants convert carbon dioxide, water and
sunlight/energy into oxygen and glucose. This cyclical process supplies animals and humans
with oxygen and food
- A green roof will not only absorb heat, decreasing the tendency towards thermal air
movement, but will also filter the air moving across it
Public Benefits
- Increase local support for new
development
- Aesthetically pleasing to tenants
above buildings with green roofs
- Tenants or employees are provided
with a rooftop oasis
- Access to the outdoors can increase
productivity and morale
- Decreased need for health care
services due to the benefits of
passive experiences with nature and
vegetation
- Increase public perception of your
corporation