The environmentally friendly movement has been gaining momentum for several decades as people embrace “green” lifestyles. Numerous homeowners have discovered that the many benefits of a green roof make it possible to maintain an eco-friendly home, while simultaneously enjoying the luxury of functional fashion.
Benefits
Regardless of how environmentally conscious one is, he or she may still ponder the question “why have a green roof?” The multiple benefits speak for themselves, the most advantageous of which are outlined below:
Financial Return
Even though the initial expense of green roofs may be higher than their traditional counterparts, they usually pay for themselves within several years.
Extra Insulation
Green roofs create an extra layer of insulation for the dwelling. This means that the property owner can use less insulation, as well as less energy to cool and heat the home.
Sound Proofing
Another significant benefit of green roofs is the fact that they are essentially soundproof. This is highly advantageous for those who live in areas with a considerable amount of traffic or neighborhood noise.
Aesthetic Appeal
Green roofs almost always end up being the talk of the town. Because of their unusual appearance, they draw attention from neighbors and others in the community, and virtually everyone loves their beautiful and unique details.
Fewer Roof Drains Required
A green roof also enables homeowners to reduce the number of roof drains that are needed or even eliminate them entirely. Although this may not seem like a huge advantage, when drain cleaning time comes, most people find it a major benefit.
For the Environment:
Another advantage of green roofs is their impact on the “Urban Heat Island Effect.” In other words, the more green roofs that are found in an urban area, the lower the heat island effect. This leads to a decrease in costs for communities trying to meet greenhouse gas reductions and be more environmentally friendly.
Stormwater Effects
Green roofs also lower the costs necessary to handle stormwater effects. Green roofs have very little runoff, and therefore create additional space in local storm sewers.
Clean Oxygen
Finally, green roofs aid in the production of clean oxygen. With an increasing number of forests and landscapes being destroyed, the need for plants to manufacture oxygen continues to escalate. Providing a roof that can boost oxygen production is an ideal way to ensure that our planet stays green and healthy for many future generations.
Commercial Green Roof Benefits
Green roofs are beneficial for commercial building owners who are looking for ways to be environmentally friendly. For example, they expand roof longevity two to three times. Additionally, they reduce heating and cooling costs and offer businesses up to 15 LEED credits. It is also possible for certain commercial building owners to receive municipality and government incentives for installing a green roof.
Ultimately, there is a vast array of benefits associated with eco-friendly roofs. Therefore, those whose goal is to maintain an environmentally friendly home or business have everything to gain and nothing to lose by contacting a qualified professional to obtain an estimate on a new, beautiful, green roof.
