subject: Standard Operating Procedures For A Green Roof In Chicago [print this page] Standard Operating Procedures For A Green Roof In Chicago
A set standard or guideline is not yet available for the contractors and consultants in regards to the set up of green roof in Chicago. However some common practices and procedures have been developed along the way and a reputed and reliable Chicago roofing contractor will be able to help you with the implementation of a proper green roof for your house or commercial building. Some basic information on the green roofing will equip you to make the right choices
Both the land lord and the Chicago roofing contractor have to stick to the safety and health measures laid down by the City of Chicago Department of Environment at the time of setting up of green roof in Chicago. Do remember that rules needs to be strictly followed, even in the occasion of removing or altering the roof also
A special system called base supporting system is necessary in determining the good result of green roof in Chicago. The vapor control capacity of the building have to be examined and worked out. Since the water proofing layer exists just above the base, the water level in that layer will affect the percentage of moisture vapor in the base layer. Poor sensitive layer will give poor execution due to internal condensation, in such situations
The base of the water proofing layer should withstand the roots. If this is not possible, then another layer should be provided. The water proofing layer should also be examined for leakages. In addition to drainage, the green roof should be wet for the vegetation, air to the roots and nutrients. Only if these are made foolproof, the root system would have all the effectiveness of nature. This can be achieved by following the under mentioned layers
1.Moisture layer meant for retention
2.Layer to be used for the purpose of drainage
3.Layer to be used for the purpose of filter
4.Growing Medium
Layer types in terms of size and design differ from one green roof top to another as they depend upon the type and diversity of the plants. As there exist no standard operating procedures for setting up green roof in USA, an individual can follow the guidelines set by the German FLL
One should be careful in employing a contractor who is knowledgeable, trained and a person possessing Chicago license for doing the installation work. While executing a contract for this job, among the terms of contract, post maintenance for a specific period should also be entered there. Also one must check the warranty conditions laid by the manufacturer and suppliers for the roofing system. In the initial period of installation, the maintenance aspect should be carried out
1.Removal of excess plant material
2.Addressing of any Plant system failure
3.Replacement of dead plants only in situations, where it exceeds the 5% of the total installed
4.Nurturing the plants with nutrients
5.Removal of dead flower tips.
6.To mow and prune needs to be done in the case of intensive roofs
7.Drainage and other outlets should be checked for any blockage and removal of such blockage for free flow of water
8.Installing irrigation for each plant type for intensive roofing models
Maintenance contract continue to take care of issues apart from the issues related to the plant system, dead plants and substrate; the above three items are usually restricted to the first year from the installation date only
One can create biological landscaping with moss, grasses and herbs with extensive roofing. However in the case of intensive roofing, one can create a garden or park with trees, perennials, shrubs and lawn; but the intensive roofing is very expensive. One can opt for roofing which is neither extensive nor intensive; and such roofing's are called semi-intensive roofing. With semi-intensive roofing, one will be able enjoy the garden or biological landscape. One choose the following vegetation namely shrubs, moss, grass or herbs in one's roofing. Do remember that you should shell out some money for regular maintenance
These green roofing not only provides visual appeal; but provides whole lot of benefits such as: -
1.Rooftop can be utilized for cultivating food
2.Setting up of a green space in a city which is constrained with space.
3.Pollution can be cleansed
4.Waterproofing membrane can be protected; with it, the life of the roof can be expanded
5.Sound insulation can be provided
6.Usage of air-conditioners is restricted to the maximum possible.
7.Rain water harvesting is easily done
8.Creation of a natural habitat for birds and insects
