Investing in Green Roof:

The Benefits of Our Living Roof Extension

Green Roof: Topping Off Our Extension with Nature in Mind

Axis recently completed a project of a ground floor extension with a sedum roof, and while some might see a green roof as a luxury, it felt like a necessity. It was about preserving something precious: the lost connection to the garden from the children’s bedrooms.

Imagine this: a brand-new extension, potentially blocking a beautiful vista with a stark, grey roof. Not exactly inspiring, right? Instead, a green roof, a living, breathing layer of nature that replaces the blocked view. It enhanced the view, adding a touch of vibrant greenery and the promise of attracting local wildlife.

But a green roof is so much more than just a pretty picture. It’s an investment in a cooler, quieter, and more sustainable future for our homes.

The Cooling Power of Green

One of the most underestimated benefits of a green roof is its ability to regulate temperature via evapotranspiration, a process where water evaporates from the plants and soil, absorbing heat, effectively cooling the air around it. This means less reliance on air conditioning, potentially leading to significant energy savings and lower utility bills. Whilst we grapple with the urban heat island effect, where cities become pockets of intense heat, even individual green roofs can contribute to a cooler, more comfortable local environment.

Soundproofing with Soil and Plants

Beyond temperature control, a green roof acts as a natural sound barrier. The multiple layers – soil, vegetation, and a drainage system – work together to absorb and deflect sound waves. This creates a quieter, more peaceful environment inside and out, shielding us from the noise of traffic, neighbours, and the general hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a welcome benefit, especially in the children’s rooms where the reflected sounds are absorbed, creating a more conducive space for rest and study.

Slowing the Flow: Stormwater Management

Green roofs are like giant sponges, soaking up rainwater and releasing it slowly. This is a great benefit: by reducing the volume of runoff, green roofs ease the strain on local drainage systems and minimise the risk of flooding. Plus, as the water filters through the layers of the roof, it gets cleaned naturally, improving the quality of the water that eventually makes its way back into the environment.

A Little Back to Nature

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of this green roof is the opportunity to give back to nature. Axis recommended to go for a sedum roof; it might not be as biodiverse as a wildflower meadow; however, being in a coastal location would suit the hardwearing nature of these little succulents. The supplier was chosen carefully, selecting a variety of plants for their low-maintenance needs and their ability to attract local wildlife. Axis envisions a thriving mini-ecosystem on the rooftop, buzzing with bees, fluttering with butterflies, and perhaps even visited by birds. In a city where green spaces are increasingly scarce, creating a habitat, even on a small scale, feels like a meaningful contribution to supporting biodiversity.

Our Green Roof Journey

The construction process was fascinating, since this was a new extension, the roof membrane was chosen specifically for use with a green roof. However, there are ways to add green roofs on top of most roof types if you are considering adding to an existing roof. You would need to check with a structural engineer as well to confirm that the structure will take the extra load. We learned a lot along the way, and while there were a few minor challenges, the end result is more than worth it.

A green roof extension is more than just an addition to your home; it’s an investment in your family’s well-being and a small step towards a more sustainable future. It preserves your view, cools your home, quiets the noise, manages stormwater, and provides a haven for local wildlife. It’s a testament to the power of integrating nature into our built environments.