By Alyssa Davis - Help the Environment and Save Money
With our economy failing, the globe warming to record levels and rising exponentially each year, and resources dwindling in many different aspects, people all over the world are searching for ways to add value, beauty, and functionality to what they have. There are many unique benefits that come with adding a living roof to a house, and the added beauty and usability are incredible.
Adding a living roof to your home can eliminate some of the problems faced by rainwater, since the plants in the garden absorb much of the water instead of allowing it to run off the roof, or pool on the roof. In addition, the plants add additional oxygen to the atmosphere, and decrease the amount of carbon dioxide in the air. They are very pleasing to the eye, and add a tremendous amount of appeal if done correctly, especially to buyers looking for a home that is environmentally friendly.
A living roof saves money by reducing cooling bills as well. They hold in cool air, and protect the home from the sun’s rays during the hot months. In addition, they add insulation during the winter months, so they lock in heat, too. With a tight budget, saving money in more than one place is just an added bonus for any home improvement project, since it implies that, given some time, the project will literally pay for itself.
First be sure that your roof is structurally sound and that it can support the extra weight of a roof garden; have your roof inspected by a professional contractor if you have any doubt. Next, choose a roof section that is as flat as possible. Most people choose a garage, extension to the home, or shed as a living roof, since they tend to be flatter and usually have far fewer obstacles, such as gables, fireplaces, antennas, and similar items that would have to be worked around. Start by adding a waterproof barrier between the garden and your roof.
Next, add a barrier that protects the roof from damage, such as a pond liner or similar material. After that, add a filter sheet to keep the water from running off of the roof before the plants have a chance to absorb the water; choose one that will not store an excessive amount of water, creating a leak hazard. Most people choose to add an additional moisture blanket to ensure that the plants get enough water. Cardboard, old blankets or towels, professional landscaping materials, and similar products work great for this purpose.
Some people add a drainage layer to make sure that excess water does not damage the roof in any way. Excessive amounts of water not only cause leaks, but also can create structural issues due to their weight. Most retailers that sell landscaping materials will offer something suitable for this purpose.
Finally, add the soil layers, and the desired plants. Make sure that both are compatible, by speaking with a professional who is knowledgeable about the area where you live. Choose plants that grow well in sunlight, especially if your roof is exposed to long-term full sunlight. An expert can help you choose plants, and can offer information to help you grow the best plants possible.
Metal-Wall-Art.com senior staff writer, Alyssa Davis, specializes in designing with 3d metal wall art and butterflies metal wall art.
