Learning Your Green Roof Options
You may be familiar with the synthetic sustainable materials roofers in Minneapolis MN have been using
, but have you heard about green roof systems? Current trends in roofing continue to move toward green options.
The Effect: Urban Heat Island
Roofers in Minneapolis MN can help battle the Urban Heat Island Effect with green rooftops and other more green roofing choices. What is an Urban Heat Island? An Urban Heat Island (UHI) is when a large city has a significantly higher temperature than the areas surrounding it, usually more notable at night. This difference occurs in the winter and summer. Not only is it warmer in large metros it appears as though there may actually be an effect on wind, tornadoes, pollution, and water life.
All of the dark surfaces in the metro are what work together to create this effect. Asphalt, dark roofs, and other surfaces all trap and retain heat, working with tall buildings that tend to block out wind and air flow.
Choosing a lighter color roof or a green roof can help stop the UHI effect.
Green Roofs
You can choose several different options when it comes to creating a green roof. Some roof gardens do not require you to actually install a whole new roof. Container roof gardens can be added to your current roof. Plantings in you large containers provide shade and help clean the air. In order to have this type of garden you will need access for care and to check with your roofers in Minneapolis MN to make certain you roof can hold the extra weight.
Your other option is a green roof system, much more involved than simple roof gardens, this is where the green area actually becomes your roof. There are two types of green roof systems, extensive and intensive.
Extensive systems are shallower. They contain hardier plants and require much less maintenance.
Intensive systems are by comparison much more involved. They are deeper systems and contain plantings that require much more time and care. Pruning is often necessary and these systems will have built in irrigation. An intensive green roof system will weigh much more than an extensive system.
Forming a Plan
You will need the correct permits to construct a green roof system. When applying for a permit a number of things will be considered. Among the big concerns: can your home structurally bear the weight, do you have access to your roof for maintenance and care, how will you irrigate your system, and how will you control drainage.
Roofers in Minneapolis MN can help with some of your planning, but you will need a structural engineer or architect to determine the load capacity of your home.
Caring for Your Roof Garden
Roof gardens all require upkeep. You will need to weed and prune plants. And keeping your gutters and drainage system clear will be even more important now. Since this type of roof is a BIG commitment make sure you are really ready for it.
Roofers in Minneapolis can guide you to other options to help fight the UHI effect if you are not quite ready for the time and financial commitment of a green roof system. Lighter colored roofs in a number of different materials will help you do your part.
Future Materials
New roofing materials continue to move in a green direction. A green roof system and roof gardens are two options, but there are more.
Roofers in Minneapolis MN continue to use more and more ecofriendly products. You may discover an option you never knew existed!
by: Scott Landa
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