The conventional belief is that it’s just the space around a building that’s suitable for greenery. Green Roofs put an end to that idea. These roofs make the building itself a natural habitat. When they’re applied to a flat roof they increase the amount of live-able space the building can provide. In the case of both flat and slanted roofs they provide a variety of benefits. One surprising benefit is the extension of the roof’s lifespan. The harsh rays of the sun, along with exposure to the elements, cause normal roofing materials to deteriorate. Putting a layer of vegetation on top protects the underlying materials, significantly increasing the length of the roof.
The addition of a living roof insulates the building against extremes of heat and cold. It can also absorb the sun’s heat, which not only keeps the building cool, but also cools the surrounding environment. This absorption capability also extends to blocking noise from entering the building. With all these advantages there’s no good reason not to have one.