Have you considered a green roof?

Backyards, courtyards, sporting fields and schools have all benefited from a natural lawn, so what’s next? Corporate buildings, hotels and apartment building rooftops! We love all the benefits a green roof provides.

A ‘green roof’ is increasingly popular due to the numerous benefits they offer to the occupants, the community and the building itself.

A traditional roof is exposed to extreme heats, winds and ultra-violet radiation which over time will lead to mechanical and chemical degradation of the roof membrane. A green roof will prolong the lifespan of the roof by shielding the membrane from the harshest elements. It has been suggested that a green roof could extend the life of a roof by up to 20 years. Now that’s a great economic benefit.

A green roof will reduce both heating and cooling costs. Another one for the economist at heart! And another; recent research suggests that when photovoltaic cells (found in solar panels) have an increase of up to 25% efficiency when situated in combination with a green roof.

Benefits for the local community include improved air quality (the lawn will convert carbon dioxide to oxygen and sequester carbon), filter storm water before it enters the storm water system and won’t add harmful elements found on traditional roofs and reduce noise pollution by acting as a noise buffer or absorber. A green roof will reduce the urban heat island effect; ever notice how hot it can get in the centre of a city and how much cooler it is the further away you travel? A turf lawn on the rooftop will also reduce the building’s fire risk and slow the rate of fire spreading due to the moisture it naturally contains.

Fantastic reasons to have a green roof but, just imagine if you could have access to that green roof! People may not be able to access a green roof due to safety issues, particularly if the green roof has been retrofitted but the benefits of green roofs for people are amazing.

Particularly in a commercial environment, a green roof that staff members are able to utilise provides improved employee morale, decreased absenteeism and an increase on worker efficiency. The green space can aid with good mental health and cognitive function. Imagine holding meetings or having lunch on a lovely lawn covered rooftop; the extra direct daylight will also support circadian rhythms, alertness, enhance moods and promote neurological health.

So if you’re looking to add that something special to your commercial building, apartment or resort complex or hotel why not consider including a green roof. From concept to installation, the team at Daleys Turf would be happy to answer any questions you might have about the right type of turf for your green roof.