What is the difference between intensive and extensive green roofs

A typical growing medium depth of an intensive green roof is 6 inches or more. Intensive green roofs offer a great potential for design and biodiversity. However, green roofs offer added benefits such as reducing and filtering stormwater runoff; absorbing pollutants and carbon dioxide; providing natural habitat; and in the case of intensive green roofs, serving as recreational green space.

Think sedums low-growing succulents , herbs, meadow grasses and perennials. Can you put a green roof on an existing building? Many of our green roof projects involve existing buildings. Waterproofing must be in excellent condition, typically no older than 5 years, though having a green roof installed when you need to redo your roof is the best option. Extensive green roofs may require watering on a regular basis, as well as the elimination of undesirable flora such as weeds from the area of the roof and the gravel or shingle perimeter.

It will also be also necessary to check that the drainage system is clear of debris, usually at least twice a year. Each of the two kinds of green roof — intensive and extensive — is appropriate for different purposes. There are two primary forms of green roofing: intensive and extensive.

These are differentiated by the amount of vegetation utilized. Yes, you can occasionally walk on a Sedum roof. For instance, when you fertilize the roof once a year, walking on the Sedum plants is not a problem. However, be careful if it freezes: it is not advisable to walk on the vegetation if the plants are frozen, you may damage them. An intensive green roof will require the regular maintenance associated with the planting scheme and landscape design, whereas an extensive green roof will need only minimal maintenance to ensure that any unwanted species do not become established.

Damage and Leakage: Unfortunately, green roofing systems are susceptible to damage and leakage. Plant roots can penetrate the waterproof membrane and trigger roof leaks that can lead to structural damage.

Green roofs are used to achieve environmental benefits including reducing stormwater runoff, energy use, and the heat island effect. A green roof provides a rainwater buffer, purifies the air, reduces the ambient temperature, regulates the indoor temperature, saves energy and encourages biodiversity in the city. By lowering temperatures and reducing energy use, green roofs can help reduce concentrations of several pollutants that affect air quality, climate, and health.

Methane, a potent GHG, also contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone, which is a harmful air pollutant and component of smog. However, there is recent evidence to suggest that green roofing can add to the insulating properties of a roof, and thereby help to reduce heat loss and decrease energy consumption rates in the winter as well. The plants you are growing will require regular feeding and irrigation to keep them in a good condition.

Whichever green roof type you choose, you need to make sure the roof is easy to access so you can carry out maintenance. The safest form of access is via an internal roof hatch, however you could always set up secure ladder points of external steps instead.

If you are on a tight budget, then you may want to consider opting for an extensive green roof. If you are planning on installing a green roof, you first need to consider the factors outlined in this article to help you decide between an intensive and extensive garden.

Weigh up the pros and cons of each so you can decide on the best option to suit your lifestyle needs. If you require any further advice about green roofs and their requirements, please get in touch with a member of our team.

Skip to content A guide to choosing between intensive and extensive green roof solutions. What is the difference between the two types? Growing plants If you are hoping to grow a variety of plants, vegetables and even small trees, then you will need to build an intensive green roof. Maintenance If you do not want to have to maintain your green roof very often, then we suggest opting for an extensive green roof.

Costs If you are on a tight budget, then you may want to consider opting for an extensive green roof. Conclusion If you are planning on installing a green roof, you first need to consider the factors outlined in this article to help you decide between an intensive and extensive garden. Prev Previous 5 benefits of installing a green roof. An intensive roof is many times heavier than an extensive roof because an intensive roof is comparable to a normal garden with shrubs and trees.

The load for the roof construction is therefore much higher. Intensive roofs can therefore only be constructed on new buildings where the weight of the roof is included in the original structure.