There are so many people and businesses in my community that are transforming previously open space and lawns into areas for growing food and flowers. I love seeing this happen – for so many, the combination of expensive food prices, and the growing lack of food quality and GMO introduction has driven them to self-educate on how to grow their own.
Some friends of mine in a nearby city are also in the process of creating a “Living Roof”. Everything about this very term caught my attention, and reminded me of a restaurant right here in town that has a living roof. I would like to be a part of spreading the word about this incredibly wonderful idea, so I have done some research for this here article.
Ultimately what I have found, is that living roofs are becoming more than a trend. They can help you save money and beautify your space.
What is a Living Roof?
A living roof is a roof that has been planted. It is at least partially covered with vegetation. For example a living roof might be covered with grass. Many hotels, businesses and even schools are using rooftop space to build a garden. It’s a fantastic way to maximize, improve the environment and save money.
There are different types of living or green roofs. Some require little to no maintenance. These are the simple grass or sod covered roofs that you might see on homes in the countryside. They may require nothing more than nutrients from time to time.
Roofs which have gardens or other plants on them require more work. They’re commonly referred to as semi-intensive or intensive. You may have to weed, prune and harvest. Flat roof are easier to plant on. If you have a pitched roof then sod is the simplest living roof option.
What Does a Living Roof Do?
A living roof can provide many benefits. At its simplest a living roof helps the environment. Plants help clean the air. A living roof can also add space to your home. It can become a place to go for serenity and a nice view. Imagine sitting on your roof and enjoying your flower bed or garden? If you live in an apartment building or work in a high rise this is often a great use of space.
You might also benefit from any flowers or vegetables grown on your living roof. However most of the benefit may be in the form of environmental benefits.
A green roof absorbs rainwater. This in turn helps keep waterways clean. Also, a living roof can provide insulation for your home. You’ll spend less money on electricity or fuel to heat and cool your home. And for urban dwellers, green roofs actually lower the air temperature.
In the city during the summer months the temperature in a city can be ten to fifteen degrees higher. This is because of the heat the city creates. A living roof can help lower the air temperature.
Before You Create Your Own Living Roof:
There are several considerations to make before you plant on your roof. The first is what type of roof you have. If it is flat or has a slight pitch then you have more options about what you can grow. Steep pitches really only accommodate sod. Also, will the structure of your home support the added weight of a green roof?
Finally, there is the overall cost and maintenance. You’ll need to waterproof your roof before you plant. This can be expensive. You’ll also want to review your community’s zoning laws. Are you allowed to have a green roof? Finally, what are you going to plant? What maintenance will be required? Are you going to plant it yourself or hire a contractor? Will you need extra insurance for your home after the roof has been installed?
Green roofs are good for the environment. Of course they are! We can only do incredible good for our world by growing more green things. They can be fun and beautiful to look at too. Before you start growing on your roof take a look at your options. Do your own research, and feel it out as to whether or not creating a living green roof is a project you would like to take on. If you can imagine it – you can do it!
Cinella says
Woohoo! I’m all for extra greenery! Thanks for posting, I’ll be sharing this!
Cinella @ TMB
Dannie says
Right on! Thank you so much, Cinella 🙂
Debbie Denny says
That is a great view. I think it is awesome people are doing this.
Jen V says
We went to a park where the nature center had a living roof. This is such a great way to make good use of the space.
Nicole Brady says
I think this is such a neat concept and love that new city-owned buildings in our area are including this in their designs. So many positives!
Dria says
This is beautiful! Would make living in the city much easier if you had this!
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
That would be awesome for people living in the city. Great idea.
maria @ close to home says
I lived in Chicago and this was a growing trend when I left. Such a great use of space.
Francine says
What a great idea. Love adding plants to my living areas!
MommaDJane says
Having a living green roof in a building you work in or live in would be such a great escape during stressful times. I bet it would be relaxing to sit up there and enjoy the view surrounded by air purifying plants.
Dannie says
Absolutely! When I lived in the city, I spent a lot of time in the Botanical Gardens, which were located at the top of a large high rise and open to the public. It washed away the stress of my day 🙂
Tracie Nal says
I love the idea of a living roof. If we lived in the city, I would definitely want to try this on our roof.
Lenze says
Great idea for those living in the city (tight spaces) who want to be green!
Pam says
I have been seeing more green roofs in my area lately. I think it’s a great idea.
Amy D says
I think green roof tops are super cool! I once ate at a restaurant that grew all their own food on the roof!
Mama to 5 BLessings says
What a beautiful idea, it’s like having your own oasis and great for privacy too!
Heather lawrence says
Living walls are huge here.
Haven’t even seen a living roof but it looks so cool!!
We were actually just looking for some trees for the backyard today and I couldn’t picture hauling a tree up to the top floor of a building!
Dannie says
That’s awesome. I would love to have a living wall 🙂
Lisa says
This is awesome. I wish I could do that here.
Maria Oller says
So gorgeous I think more people is getting ice green gardens lately no matter if it’s their yard or just small balcony, I’m working in my yard but my sister in law is working on a small garden in their balcony herbs and aloe for now
Tracy @ Ascending Butterfly says
I am seeing less ‘green roof’/living roofs in favor of solar roofs here but I do think both are great ideas actually! 🙂
Mommy2Jam says
What a spectacular view! I would love to do that with my roof, this looks like it would be a back east thing. I wish I could do this where I live.
Debbie L. says
I love green roofs! Chicago has quite a few! Such a great way to bring green back to a city!
Liz Mays says
I never considered all the positive benefits of this. These are totally worth having!
Robin {Mom Foodie} says
I’ve thought of doing this on top of my garage, but there are so many other things to do first.
Lois Alter Mark says
Love this! The more green, the better – for so many reasons.
Shanna says
I love this idea! Makes me wish I had a flat roof!
Laura (Lauras Little House Tips) says
I just loved this post. What a great way for city dwellers to experience a little country and add to their lives. Kuddo’s. Sharing this with a friend in the city 🙂
Annie {Stowed Stuff} says
This is a great idea! I think I’ve seen something like it on HGTV!
Lexie Lane says
I’ve seen these and definitely great for conservation and just being green.Plus they look beautiful.