Living roofs are those that consist of a soil-like substrate, plus plants that are rooted in that substrate. These roofs are often touted as an eco-friendly option, and they certainly can be. However, people do often note that living roofs are expensive, require a lot of care and watering, and look quite different from the average roof. Is a living roof still worth it in spite of this work and these challenges? To some homeowners, it is. Consider the following benefits of living roofs to decide whether a living roof is right for you.
Living roofs help reduce your heating and cooling bills.
Living roofs are great insulators. Both the soil and the plants themselves help reduce heat transfer through your roof. This means that in the summer, your home won't get as hot, which will reduce the energy your air conditioner consumes. It also means that in the winter, your home will lose less heat through the roof. Your heater won't have to work as hard, and your fuel bills should stay lower.
Living roofs absorb carbon dioxide from the air.
Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas and a pollutant. Plants absorb it, which is good for the health of the planet, in general. By choosing a living roof, you are essentially introducing more plants to the earth, and in doing so, you are helping to remove excess carbon dioxide. This is good for your health, other people's health, and the future of the earth.
Living roofs release oxygen.
Oxygen is necessary for humans and animals to breathe. Living roofs give off oxygen. If you do not have a lot of land where you can plant trees and other oxygen-releasing plants, putting a living roof on your home is a good alternative.
Living roofs help keep cities cooler.
This advantage really only applies when you live in a city or another densely packed area. In such areas, black and dark-colored roofs can contribute to the heat island effect, essentially absorbing sunlight and making the area hotter. Living roofs don't do this. They are lighter in color, reflect more sunlight, and help dissipate the heat island effect. This keeps the area where you live more comfortable for everyone.
If the benefits above really speak to you, then a living roof may be worth the money and work that it requires. Talk to a roofing contractor who installs living roofs to learn more.
