Saturday, 14 June 2014

Advantages Of Sustainable Green Roofing

By Ina Hunt


Roofing with vegetation and growing of plants over a waterproofing membrane is the latest trend in building. This is also known as sustainable green roofing since various activities can be done that do not compromise the future generations in meeting their own needs. Barriers are built in layers which include drainage and irrigation systems. Some of the roofing includes growing plant in pots.

The green roofs are serving various purposes such as providing insulation, increasing benevolence, absorbing rainwater, aesthetic purposes that low urban heat island. The temperature is regulated. There are various types of roofing some are thicker while others are thinner. Thick roofs support various types of plants that require extensive care and maintenance.

The maintenance and care vary with the size of this roof and also various roof can support different varieties of vegetation. This is a type of green technology that allow use of solar collectors, photo-voltaic panels and cool roof. There is a lot of benefits derived from this technology and mostly environmental benefits. This was first practiced in California where it has brought a lot of benefits.

Various plants are able to survive in this space since good installation is done. Soil acts as a good insulator while plants reduce heat losses. Plants are able to prevent high frequency effects while soil is able to lower frequencies. Agricultural spaces are available in the roof thereby improving flat roof appearance.

The roofing reduce heat through the addition of thermal resistance value. Also offer services such as cooling effect due to the evaporation reducing the urban heat and high temperatures during the summer seasons. Since it act as a garden, it reduces storm water.Water is stored and taken up by plants this is a natural filter in case of runoff.

Chicago is one of the cities that was among the earliest cities that roofed green and this has led to improved urban heating. The urban heat island is controlled by the green coverage that absorbs heat. Animals, insects and plants add to the biodiversity of roof setting up a natural urban set up. Pollutants are reduced through absorption by plants while the birds get a place to nest.

The roofing is of great benefit since the lifespan of the roof is extended. The roofs provide waterproof membranes that prevent ultra-violet rays from penetrating and causing any form of physical damage. Heat retention is of great benefit since during summer seasons the roof absorbs heat that is released during the cooler seasons hence reducing the need for air-conditioning.

Despite disadvantages such as high coast of initial installation, the roofing has led to development of green technologies that are saving energy. Many countries are adapting the particular covering technology since it is sustainable and natural. Biodiversity is conserved reducing future impacts of global warming. There is need for green spaces in urban areas and with the evolution of this specific covering is creating micro-climate by reducing heat radiation.




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