How thick is a living roof?

Green roofs are breathtaking structures attached to buildings. Not only can these living roofs increase insulation and lower urban heat emissions, but they’re also great at increasing biodiversity. But, How thick is a living roof?

Unfortunately, there’s no single size or shape that fits all purposes when it comes to living roofs – let’s get specific! 

Types of Living Roofs

There are three general classifications of living roofs.

1. Extensive green roofs
2. Intensive green roofs
3. Semi-intensive green roofs

Each has a specific thickness depending on its design and purpose.

Extensive Green Roofs

Extensive green roofs are lightweight and straightforward. 

• Thickness: It typically ranges between two and six inches.
• Features: They have ample room for low-maintenance plants such as moss, sedum, or grasses to thrive in an enclosure.
• Purpose: They can be usefully installed where weight restrictions pose problems, with most being applied more for environmental than aesthetic considerations.

Extensive roofs are appropriate for residential homes and smaller structures.

Intensive Green Roofs

These roofs require much more planning.

• Thickness: 6 to 12 inches on average but may reach 24 inches for thicker films.
• Features: These roofs accommodate larger plants such as shrubs and small trees.
• Purpose: They serve both aesthetic and recreational needs; however, more maintenance and irrigation may be required than with traditional plants.

Green roofs can often be seen in urban environments like parks or commercial buildings. 

Semi-Intensive Green Roofs

Semi-intensive green roofs have also become more widespread. These combine elements from both extensive and intensive types.

• Thickness: It ranges between 6-12 inches.
• Features: They can support various plants ranging from grasses and small shrubs.
• Purpose: They provide the ideal blend of weight, maintenance costs, and plant diversity.

Semi-intensive roofs can adapt easily to mixed-use buildings.

What Determines Thickness?

The thickness of a living roof depends upon several key considerations:

• Plant Selection: Larger plants require deeper soil conditions for success.
• Building Structure: For maximum support of extra weight on top, roof structures need to be strong enough.
• Drainage Systems: Appropriate drainage layers contribute to increased thickness.
• Climate: To maintain warmth in colder environments, deeper soil provides insulation by keeping buildings warmer.

Each criterion ensures the roof meets both functional and sustainability criteria!

Related Read: What is the thickness of a room in Edmonton?

Why Does Thickness Affect Performance?

The thickness of a living roof affects its performance:

• Weight Load: Deeper roofs weigh more and require additional support structures for proper functioning.
• Plant Variety: Deeper substrates allow for greater plant diversity.
• Insulation Benefits: Roofs with deeper slopes provide superior heat and sound insulation, offering both heating and acoustic comfort benefits.

An optimal living roof must balance between meeting your needs and not exceeding the structural limitations of your building.

The Bottom Line

How thick is a living roof? Living roof thickness typically ranges between 2-24 inches. Extensive roofs tend to be thinner and low maintenance while intensive or semi-intensive ones provide greater functionality. When planning on installing one on your building or structure, take into consideration your goals as this will create both a beautiful and effective green space!In search of roof installation services around Edmonton? Our experts at A2ZRoofing ensure top-quality materials and professional service for lasting protection!