Grass Roof Detail for Extensive and Semi-Intensive Roofs

When designing a grass roof, it's essential to consider the type of roof you're working with. For extensive roofs, which have a lower load-bearing capacity, the grass layer should be no thicker than 5 cm.

In contrast, semi-intensive roofs have a higher load-bearing capacity and can support thicker grass layers, typically up to 10 cm. This allows for more lush and dense grass growth.

A green roof needs to function first as a roof, keeping the structure watertight, and at the same time provide an environment conducive to the vegetation. This is achieved through the incorporation of moisture protection and proven green roof technology.

Hydrotech's Garden Roof Assemblies accomplish this by considering the roof membrane, plants, and everything in between.

Their assemblies include the very best in moisture protection and proven green roof technology. This is why a Hydrotech Garden Roof Assembly is the ideal solution for your next green roof project.

Additional reading: Roof Top Garden

A Hydrotech Garden Roof Assembly functions first and foremost as a roof, keeping the structure watertight. This is achieved through the incorporation of the very best in moisture protection.

To ensure a green roof's success, it's essential to consider the roof membrane and its role in keeping the structure watertight. American Hydrotech's Garden Roof Assemblies accomplish this by using proven green roof technology and experience.

A key factor in designing a grass roof detail is the need for moisture protection. This is why a Hydrotech Garden Roof Assembly is the ideal solution for your next green roof project.

Hydrotech's Garden Roof Assemblies are the ideal solution for any green roof project, providing a watertight roof while creating an environment conducive to vegetation. They accomplish this by incorporating the best in moisture protection and proven green roof technology.

Hydrotech's wide range of Garden Roof Assemblies can suit virtually any design requirement, and they're typically classified into different categories.

For a grass roof, the right components are essential. Geofoam is a lightweight option that can be used to create depth and mounding without overloading the roof.

You can also use Recycled and Sustainable options for mounds and contours, which is a great choice if you want to reduce waste and minimize your environmental impact.

To build a thriving green roof, you need the right growing media. Our lightweight media is engineered regionally to meet FLL Standards and ASTM guidelines.

We fill the LiveRoof module to the top of Soil Elevators with engineered soil, which is essential for plant health. This ensures that your plants receive the right amount of water and nutrients.

Our semi-intensive blend is designed to meet every design and plant type. It's available for delivery via super sacks or Blower truck, making it easy to get started with your green roof project.

Additional reading: Plant Grass

Drain boxes are a crucial component in maintaining a roof's functionality. They come in two sizes: 24”x24” and 12”x12”.

Our Columbia Green Drain boxes are designed to hold media and plants away from roof drains. This allows for easy access to drains for routine maintenance.

The variety of heights available for these drain boxes makes them adaptable to different roofing needs.

Geofoam and lightweight fill are perfect for creating depth and mounding in your design without overloading the roof.

You can use recycled and sustainable options for mounds and contours, which is a great way to go green while also achieving the desired shape.

Our lightweight fill options are designed to provide the necessary support without putting too much strain on the roof.

A grass roof is a type of green roof that uses living plants to cover the roof surface.

Grass roofs can be made from various types of materials, including sedum, succulents, and grasses.

If you're looking to create a rooftop landscape with perennials, shrubs, and trees, you'll want to consider an extensive green roof system. This type of system is designed to be lightweight and cost-effective, making it a great option for a variety of applications.

A Columbia Green Extensive Layered System consists of a root barrier, drainage layer, filter layer, and water retention layer. These layers can be easily cut on-site to fit curves and angles, making it perfect for any design or layout.

This system has a 3”-6” media depth and can withstand a saturated weight of 20-39 PSF.

The Semi Intensive Green Roof System is a great choice for those who want to add some extra flair to their vegetative roofs. It has a thicker media depth, which allows for a wider variety of plant materials.

This system consists of a drainage layer, filter layer, and water retention layer below the growing media. The layers can be cut in the field to fit curves and irregular shapes, making it a flexible option.

The Semi Intensive media is engineered to support a wider variety of plant materials, including grasses and perennials. This adds planting design options and biodiversity to the roof.

A Semi Intensive Green Roof System can have a 6”-8” media depth, with a saturated weight of 39-54 PSF.

Grass roofs can be a great way to reduce stormwater runoff, as they allow rainwater to soak into the soil and be filtered by the grass.

This can lead to significant reductions in the amount of stormwater that enters the drainage system, which can help to alleviate pressure on urban infrastructure.

A study found that grass roofs can reduce stormwater runoff by up to 70%.

Grass roofs also provide insulation, keeping buildings cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

This can lead to significant energy savings, as buildings require less heating and cooling.

In one example, a grass roof reduced energy consumption by 20%.

Grass roofs can also be used to create habitats for wildlife, providing a natural environment for plants and animals to thrive.

This can be especially beneficial in urban areas, where natural habitats are often scarce.

Grass roofs can also be designed to be accessible, allowing people to walk on them and enjoy the benefits of being outdoors.

This can be a great way to bring people together and create community spaces.

Broaden your view: Energy Efficiency in Buildings