Green Roofs: The Pros and Cons
With green buildings rising in popularity, many home and property owners are considering installing green roofs. And with global warming consuming our planet and our ever-growing use of electricity, it’s much needed. We all must improve our natural environment, and kickstarting your journey with a green roof with the help of a reliable roofing company in Unionville, CT, is a fantastic start!
What is a Green Roof?
The green roof got its name because it’s a sustainable option that’s excellent for the environment. We consider it “green” as it often contains vegetation and plants, and for the dedicated – an entire garden! Generally, a capable roofing company in Unionville, CT, uses herbs, grass, flowers, vegetables, and drought-resistant plants for these environmentally friendly roofs, including top-notch chimney cleaning.
Pros of Green Roofs
1. Upgrades Drainage System
Sustainable drainage is essential for all structures as it counters flooding during storms or heavy rainfall. Traditionally, drainage consists of a network of pipes connected to the sewer system. But because of the growing numbers in urban development, more water flows into cities, making them vulnerable to flooding. A green roof offered by a roofing company in Unionville, CT, can be an excellent counter.
After all, green roofs contain plants that store water and substrate before releasing them into the environment.
2. Improves Thermal Performance
Having a green roof improves its thermal performance, providing better insulation. During the hotter months, the roof’s temperature help decrease thanks to plants absorbing sun rays. Meanwhile, when it comes to the colder months, green roofs help in thermal efficiency, locking heat within.
As a result, you don’t have to worry about substantial heat loss during the colder months or sweltering conditions in the summer. Working with a roofing company in Unionville, CT, in collaboration with a skilled solar energy contractor, gives you a green roof that ensures energy efficiency and limits the need to use air conditioning.
3. Extends Roof's Lifespan
Since our roofs protect our structures from outside elements, it’s continually under attack year-round. A green roof can protect your property better, shielding it against the wind, rain, UV rays, and fluctuating temperatures. Hence, homeowners and business owners should consider working with a roofing company in Unionville, CT, to discuss the possibilities of installing a green roof.
As the green roof shields your structure better against harsh outdoor elements, you can expect it to last longer. Generally, it can double or triple your rooftop’s life expectancy, providing a waterproof membrane – ensuring your roof remains for decades.
4. Help Out the Environment
The most crucial benefit of a green roof made by a professional roofing company in Unionville, CT, is that it helps the environment. After all, the main contributing factor to global warming is the excess release of carbon dioxide. A green roof reduces the need for air conditioning and guarantees less heat for the winter. As a result, it can minimize aircon and heat generation, reducing carbon dioxide production.
5. Boosts Air Quality
Air pollution continually becomes an alarming problem worldwide. It has become a massive issue in metropolitan areas, predominantly in larger cities. Having a green roof installed by a roofing company in Unionville, CT, helps improve the air quality in your property by decreasing toxic particles like nitrous acid and sulfur dioxide yearly.
6. Supports Wildlife
Having a green roof extends your support for wildlife, creating a healthy habitat for them. Although it won’t replace ground environments, it’s excellent for attracting birds and other animals, creating a thriving eco-friendly area as long as it’s installed by an experienced roofing company in Unionville, CT.
7. Helps with Noise Pollution
No matter how thick or hardcore your roof’s material, metal, asphalt, slate, or tiles won’t remove the noise altogether. And it can be loud in the city. Installing a green roof can muffle the noise, toning down the hustle and bustle of the city. So, achieve a calmer space and work with a roofing company in Unionville, CT, to have your green roof installed today!
Cons of Green Roofs
Although green roofs are incredibly beneficial for businesses and homeowners, they still have a few drawbacks you must consider before installing them into your structures.
1. Increased Weight Load
Considering the greenery, it’ll contain, green roofs will be naturally heavier than conventional roofs since they need more structural support. Generally, a green roof can skyrocket the weight load of a roofing system between 50 and 200 kilograms (110 and 440 pounds) per meter squared to existing rooftops.
Also, some rooftops require retrofitting to handle the increased pressure, while flat roofs should be able to take the added capacity well. Discuss these requirements with a reliable roofing company in Unionville, CT, for a better overview.
2. Expensive
Green roofs are pricier than traditional roofs as they require more support in maintenance and handling. So, expect a more significant setback at first. Still, considering the incredible benefits we discussed, they’ll compensate for your invested money with a roofing company in Unionville, CT, over time.
3. Requires Extra Maintenance
Green roofs, as beautiful and beneficial as they are, are tedious to maintain. And you’d naturally want it to ensure it stays thriving for better protection and contribution to the environment. As any leading roofing company in Unionville, CT, would say, “treat your green roof as if it’s a regular garden.” Hence, prepare to water, feed, and weed your green roof regularly!
The Best Roofing Company Near Me
As long as you manage your green roof well, you’ll be able to overshadow its disadvantages with its many benefits. If you’re interested in installing one, contact Unionville Roofing Experts, the leading roofing company in Unionville, CT, to see if it’s possible for your current property. Call them today for a free consultation and estimate!