Great Green Roofing ideas for an Energy Efficient Home

There are many tricks you can use when you’re insulating your home. One of the most effective is using water-retentive soil and roots, as well as layers of green growth, to offer an ecologically sound alternative to the conventional layering.

Many green materials can insulate your house better than traditional ones.

So while these materials may require lots of care, they are simple and self-sustaining. Therefore, whatever type of green material you decide to use, it will help to insulate the underlying structure of your home. All the while and at the same time preventing runoff and air pollutants from entering your home. Here is our rundown of things to know when you going green:

In addition, all green construction styles involve a several layers. Different materials such as EPDM liners, metal covers and vinyl sheets can be used to protect its structures.

These materials to ensure water drains away efficiently, preventing damage to the top of your home. So you can buy whole kits which contain all the supplies you need. All to design your own green insulation.

Construct an effective drainage layer. Different materials such as crushed stones and gravel can be used for this layer. Green Roof gardens should keep enough water for plants to live. However, make sure that it does not keep too much water. In addition, you should always build a form to hold the soil. That’s especially if your building slants on top.

Finally, the third layer should consist of a breathable layer between the drainage and the soil. This layer is made from a lightweight material such as polyester geotextile to prevent the soil from clogging your drainage. The main function of this layer is to act as a filter.

As well, the top layer should consist of the soil and plants. Your location’s climate, and the level of exposure to the structure determines your choice of plants. Native plants recommended because they are already adapted to the local climate and rainfall patterns. You may have to include irrigation into your designs if you live in a dry climate.

Types of Green Roofs

Intensive

This type requires extensive labour and care to build and support. Intensive green rooftops feature more varieties of plants than other types, ranging from herbaceous plants to small trees.

Extensive

This type of green covering uses a very limited number grasses, mosses, and other drought resistant plants for cover. Extensive green roofing requires little maintenance and shallow planting materials for the plants. Sodding is a good example of the kind of thing used in extensive technique.

Urban Gardens

Urban gardens are usually found on the tops of city buildings. They are eco-friendly because they help to cut the heat island effect of city buildings. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the heat island effect is the reason for wide temperature differences between urban areas and nearby rural areas.

Green Materials

Recycled Metal

Recycled steel or aluminum is a great option to consider. That’s  because it helps to save money and energy and reduces waste. Recycled metal to create air spaces in buildings to enhance heat retention. Also, this type of material is suitable for roof painting, providing light reflection and contributing even more to energy-saving in your green home.

Engineered Lumber

Engineered lumber considered green because it is made from wood fibers bound together with adhesives. Despite its lightweight, engineered wood has great strength and does not deform or warp easily.

Recycled Newsprint

Finally, many homeowners are now using recycled newsprint and agricultural fibers to make sheathing for roof insulation layers. This isn’t just a great solution, but is also one of the most eco-friendly ways to build.