Waterwise LandscapingIt is an issue in cities like Phoenix, Houston, and Tucson where temperatures increase by 10 to 15 degrees. A living roof helps mitigate this phenomenon and has the potential to save energy. There are 2 types of green roofs: extensive and intensive. Extensive green roofs consist of drought-tolerant, self-seeding vegetated roof covers. Native plants, selected from locations with dry or semi-dry grass conditions, that require little or no irrigation–such as succulents, grasses, and meadow flowers–are often chosen for the plant cover. Intensive green roofs, like roof gardens and parking garage roofs, are more costly and elaborate in design and use different growth media types. Flowering shrubs and trees can bring out the intensity in the design. Intensive green roofs allow for more variety in plant selection compared to extensive green roofs. Both roof types offer extra insulation which results in energy savings and may reduce or eliminate the need for air conditioning.
Construction Materials
Installers can use 60- to 80-mil reinforced, heat-seamed PVC or Polyethylene, single-ply roof systems for efficient, cost-effective construction waterproofing that provides protection against root penetration. However, PVC is not sustainable, is highly toxic, and is not readily recycled. Other possible materials for waterproofing and root protection include rubber membrane (EPDM) or hypolan (CSPE). One potential problem with EPDM is the high risk of leakage leak because seams are simply glued with adhesive or tape. Another more environmentally acceptable option is thermoplastic polyolifins (TPOs), which is a green roof base waterproofing material.
