The Advantages of Green Roofs

A green roof or "living roof" is a roof that is partially or completely covered with vegitation. These roofs serve multiple purposes such as reducing storm water run off, serving as added insulation and creating a habitat for wildlife.

As the green roof reduces the storm water run off it also lessens the amount of chemicals and pollution that is found in the rain water. This is very useful if you use cisterns or catch basins for water, since it will be eliminating harmful toxins from the water so it can be used in more ways.
Green roofs retain about 50 percent of rainfall water and they help to cut down the amount of rainfall runoff when there are heavy storms.

 A great link to learn more about green roofs is http://www.liveroof.com/. This site is useful because it helps in understanding all of the unique uses of green roofs!

There are two types of green roofs: extensive and intensive. The most popularly used type of green roof is the extensive type. Extensive roofs have less numbers of layers, are lighter, less expensive and very low maintenance. These types of green roofs can be retrofitted onto existing roofs to meet LEED certification standards. These roofs can be sloped or flat depending on design standards.

Intensive green roofs are high profile and look like real roof gardens because a larger variety of plants can be used since the number of roofing layers is increased. Waterfalls, gazebos and ponds can be added and these roofs can be used as gathering spaces. Intensive green roofs are a great way to promote people intermingling with nature. Since these roofs are more intensive and have more material they are relatively flat and also have a higher degree of maintenance that is required.

There are many advantages to having green roofs such as reduced energy costs, storm water management and easier maintenance. Not to mention that green roofs are more pleasing to the eye than tar and shingles. Green roofs can also assist in ensuring a camp will achieve LEED certification. There are also government tax advantages to your organization if you use green roofing.