Green Roofs

Abstract

Green roofs are the integration of plants and their supporting structures in a building’s roof. A green roof can provide habitat for local flora and fauna, help manage storm water, reduce the heating demand in winter and the cooling load in summer, create usable space, and enhance the aesthetic value and comfort of a dwelling. Because roofs represent approximately 40 to 50 percent of the surfaces in urban areas, green roofs have an important role in drainage and, as a result, water management as well (Lawlor et al. 2006) This chapter classifies green roofs and examines their benefits, construction principles, and applications. The past few years saw an increased interest by designers and property developers in green roofs. They form part of most buildings that claim to be built to high environmental standards. In fact, when a green roof is installed on 50 percent or more of the roof’s surface, it guarantees 2 points and can contribute 7 additional points toward LEED certification—almost 20 percent of the required points for a project to be LEED certified.