Vegetative Roofing

Vegetative roofing, also known as garden roofing, refers to plant materials installed over a weatherproofing system. These roofs provide many benefits to the building and environment. These roofing systems are one of the most exciting developments in sustainable building design. Utilizing the roof, that would typically be empty, unused space, and creating a space that can be purposed as well as green and environmentally-friendly in more ways than one.
Depending on the design, structure and load capabilities of the building, vegetative roofs can be adorned with grasses, herbs, flowers, even trees. Patios and walkways can also be utilized on these roofs allowing access and opportunity to use the roof as additional space for tenants or owners. Our company has experience working on many different styles of green roofs for instance, installing a vegetative roof that was intended to insulate and protect historic archives while also utilizing the additional space for social, environmental and economic benefits.
Pictured above is a project recently completed by New England Roofing & Waterproofing in 2013This extensive roofing system complete with Sika Sarnafil single-ply roofing and a vegetative roofing system was installed by Baker Roofing and was so esteemed by the industry that the project was awarded the Sika Sarnafil 2013 Project of the Year Award in the Sustainability category. We have the capability, experience and capacity to install vegetative roofing systems both large and small. With over 25 years in the roofing industry, you can count on New England Roofing & Waterproofing to provide the highest quality and expertise.

Owner Benefits

Additional Usable Space
Converting or designing normally unused roof areas into green roofs simply makes sense. Increase your property value by reclaiming the fifth elevation of a building and make it an amenity to be used by the buildings occupants.

Increased Life Expectancy of the Roof
A green roof, much like a PMR (Protected Membrane Roof ) Assembly, protects the roof membrane from climatic extremes and physical abuse, thereby greatly increasing the life expectancy of the roof.

Building Incentives
More and more municipalities and other government agencies are providing incentives that can help off-set the cost of a green roof.

Technical Benefits

Storm Water Retention
Depending on the design, a green roof can typically reduce storm water run-off by 50 to 90%. Additionally, the peak flow volume is greatly reduced and the peak flow period is delayed by as much as 4 hours, minimizing the impact on existing sewer systems.

Additional Thermal Resistance
Green roofs can improve the thermal resistance of the roof assembly throughout the year, especially in summer months by helping to reduce cooling costs.

Reduced Noise Levels
Typical extensive green roofs (3" – 4” growing media) reduce reflective sound by up to 3 dB and improve sound insulation by up to 8 dB. This is most effective with buildings near airports, factories or busy freeways.

Ecological Benefits

Mitigates Urban Heat Island
Green roofs cool and humidify the surrounding air creating a microclimate which has beneficial effects within the immediate area.

Natural Habitat for Animals and Plants
Green roofs create biodiversity, encouraging wildlife, such as birds, butterflies and insects, to remain within urban areas.

Reduction of Dust and Smog Levels
Green roof vegetation helps to filter out dust and smog particles. Nitrates and other aerosol contaminants are absorbed out of the air and rainfall and bound within the soil.