There is an increasing interest among homeowners in turning their roofs into gardens. The roof is arguably the largest unused space in the house. Many people are quickly embracing the idea of having their vegetables come from their roof. However, there have also been a lot of concern about the benefits and structural limits of such a project. Here are facts about rooftop gardens.
- Rooftop gardens do not help the environment.
False. Rooftop gardens are one of the most eco-friendly projects anyone can undertake. Studies have shown that rooftop gardens lower the overall temperature of house during the summer and vice versa during the winter. This will effectively lower your heating and cooling costs. In addition, in large cities where buildings are close together, rooftop gardens help lower the effects of the “urban heat island.” In some cities, temperatures between a tar roof and garden roof differed by 50 degrees!
- Rooftop gardens are structural unsound and prone to leakage.
False. When planning a rooftop gardens, architects and engineers must factor in the new stresses and loads in order to prevent an unsound structure. A properly designed rooftop garden should be just as strong as any roof. In addition, leakages will happen regardless whether the roof is regular or a garden. There is no correlation between rooftop gardens and an increase in leaks.
- It’s too expensive.
Depends. Rooftop gardens are obviously catered to every individual’s taste. Also, every individual has a different opinion on how much he or she wants to utilize the garden. It can become expensive if you plan too large. Remember to consult a roofing professional for actual quotes and pricing advice. However, the EPA estimates that a green roof will cost $10 – $25 per square foot on average.
Apex Exteriors Inc. is a top contracting company in the Chicagoland area, with exterior residential and commercial contractors who you can trust. Visit Apex Exteriors online at www.apexext.com or call 847.961.4601.
Last Updated on April 24, 2018 by ApexRoofingServices
