There are people who love to see things in green. Such color symbolizes nature, fertility, and life, aspects commonly favored by well-balanced people. If you are a creative homeowner, you may want to paint your fence, wall, and shed in green or even install a green roof which can be in a form of garden with vegetables and flowers.
History
Also known as roof garden, green roofs began during the 20th century in Europe, specifically in Germany which became a leader in green roof adoption. About 12% of flat roofs in Germany are covered by vegetation, a trend that increases in popularity each year. Today, the United States is now addressing issues regarding green roofs which are expected to become as popular as those in Germany in a few more years.
Materials
Homeowners can choose among various types of green roof materials for installation. These materials should be chosen based on their properties and aesthetic value as preferred by the homeowner. Composite cedar shingles are known for its resistance to moisture, mildew, and insects. Metal roofing may also be your good option if you are in search of roof with solar reflective qualities.
Installation
Green roofs can be installed in three ways: intensive, extensive, and hybrid. Intensive green roofs are often seen on commercial buildings with flat roofs. These roofs are ideal for buildings with concrete roof deck and use plants that are native to the area. Some of the plants used for intensive green
roofing Massachusetts contractors provide may include annuals, perennials, grasses, and shrubs. These plants are commonly found in vegetable and herb gardens and require insulation layer and irrigation system.
Extensive green roofs, on the other hand, are ideal for residential installation due to their light weight. These roofs do not require reinforcement to the frame and can be used with plants from succulent family such as cacti, aloes, lithops, and jade plants. Extensive roofs offered by
roofing contractors Worcester MA has on do not include paths or walkways.
The best of both worlds in green
roofing Rhode Island contractors offer takes in the form of hybrid green roofing. It includes not only deeper planting medium, but also dining, seating, and pond areas. Some types of hybrid green roofing use trays or mats with seeds, while others use plants that are already growing. Due to the plants stable growing medium, hybrids are often seen on high-pitched roofs.