The construction industry is becoming increasingly conscious of its role in protecting the environment and sustainability. One way many in the industry are taking action is through the roofing systems they use on their projects.
Green roofs are by far the frontrunner, but the lesser-known blue and brown roofs are also great alternatives depending on your project. Let’s take a look at the differences between the three.
Green Roofs
A typical green roof is one covered in any type of vegetation. The type of green you choose will have a big effect on maintenance. There are two main types of green roofs available:
- Intensive Green Roofs
Intensive green roofs are the most complex type of green roof as they require similar maintenance to a garden. The soil layer is typically much thicker and can support a variety of plants such as trees, shrubs and flowers.
- Extensive Green Roofs
Extensive green roofs are much more common, as their maintenance is much lower. The soil layer is also thinner as grasses will be used to cover the roof instead of larger shrubs.
As well as brightening up urban areas, a green roof’s main purpose is to absorb CO2 and reduce pollution. The plants also act as extra insulation at the top of the building, holding heat in winter, and keeping it cool in the summer.
Did you know – In summer, eco-roofs can retain 70-90% of the precipitation that falls on them, and 25-40% in winter.
Blue Roofs
Blue roofs are a type of roof that is designed to collect and store rainwater. As our urban areas grow, the natural field and forests are replaced with concrete, which creates various issues, including increased flood risk and reduced runoff areas.
Blue roofs collect rainwater, which is slowly released back into the atmosphere, reducing the effect on the sewage and rain collection systems. They are typically made up of a few layers. The first layer is a waterproof membrane that prevents the water from leaking into the building below. The second layer is a layer of insulation that helps to keep the water cool. The third layer is a layer of gravel or other material that helps to filter the water. The water that falls on a blue roof is collected in the gravel or other material layer.
Brown Roofs
A variation of a green roof, a brown roof is employed to compensate for the loss of brownfield habitat caused by construction. Soil and rubble from the construction site are generally used on brown roofs, with the plants specifically selected to match those that are already present in the area, to preserve biodiversity and attach local species.
What is Best For my Project?
It all depends on the type of project and other factors such as climate, location and budget. For example, green roofs are not well-suited for colder climates, as the plants may not survive the winter. Blue roofs are a great option if rainfall is heavy or wind is an issue that could affect green roofs. Green roofs are also more expensive than blue and brown roofs and require much more maintenance.
As a multi-discipline roofing contractor, Embassy Site Services have the facilities to offer both flat and pitched roofing solutions to common interface, or co-ordination, problems. This eliminates the requirement for our clients to employ others, creating a ‘one-stop’ service for all types of roofing requirements.
If you are interested in green, blue or brown roofing systems for your next project, get in touch with our team today. Call 01708 867609, or email roofing@embassysiteservices.co.uk for more details.