Whats a greenroof? HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? Can i walk on it? DOES IT NEED TO BE WATERED?
how does a green roof improve my building? WHO HAS ADOPTED THIS TECHNOLOGY? how does a green roof help the environment?
WHY do i want one ?
Process
Design - We arrange all the elements of a green roof to ensure a fully functional system. We take into account structural support, micro climates, waterproofing and much more when designing a green roof.
Installation- typically takes 1-3 weeks depending on the size of the project. The two installation methods are a modular system or built-up system. Anything from carrying buckets of light weight soil to huge cranes can be used to transport all that is needed on your roof for proper installation.
Maintenance - is just as important as the design and installation of a green roof because it takes the plants at least three years to stabilize on the roof. After the initial three years, plants will have acclimated their new living condition and thrive for years to come. As a result, NYC requires a four year maintenance plan which can entail weeding, fertilization, or irrigation.
What is a greenroof?
Put simply, its the cool idea of having a green layer of tiny plants entirely or partially on your roof. Drought Tolerant plants, light weight soil with an special irrigation system designed for green roofs.
This system has been perfected in Europe. For over 40 years, green roofs have been used for feeding goats to cooling homes.
How much will it cost?
Ranges - from $15 to $40 a square foot. This will vary greatly depending on the size of the roof.
Tax Credit - NY state offers a Green Roof Tax Abatement to cover $5.23/sf of the cost of design and installation. Brooklyn Greenroof can apply on your behalf to make sure you're getting the money you deserve!
With a Little Help From Your Neighbors - Installing a green roof at the same time as your neighbors with the same installers can reduce the price even more by cutting the cost of delivery.
Green Infrastructure Grant -If your roof fits the parameters of the grant we work together to apply for the grant. It can pay for most of the cost of installing a green roof, but there are strings attached.
Can i walk on it?
Yes and No... - When we design a green roof we design it to meet your needs and expectations. During our first conversation we listen to what you have to say.
If you want to walk on it, we design it so it can be walked on, and vice versa.
Does it need to be watered?
Yes! - the plants are living and need to be watered. A green roof is a less energy intensive version of your lawn.
Very Little Water - is needed since drought tolerant plants are being planted.
Drip Irrigation - can be installed above or below ground.
Watering by Hand - only needs to be done after a 6 week period without rain.
How does a greenroof improve my building and the environment?
Roof Lasts Longer - because it is protected from the harsh rays of the summer sun. The waterproof layer will last 2-3 time longer than an average roof, that's up to 40 years!
Cool Insulating Layer - helps keep the cool air in, and the hot air out. As a result this dramatically cuts down on any air conditioning needs in summer and winter heating.
Increases Property Value - by 10% to 15% by providing building occupants with luxury amenity space to soak up the sun's rays.
Reduces Storm Water Run-Off - by keeping rain out of the sewer system or delaying its arrival.
Solar - If installing solar PV panels on the roof it will be up to 20% more efficient in the summer months if paired with green roof areas because the electricity is transmitted better when the whole system is cooler.
Urban Heat Island Effect - is reduced with a greenroof because while the plants are photosynthesizing they are cooling the air around them as they soak up the sun's scorching radiation while producing pure oxygen.
Animal Habitat - Having a greenroof increases the biodiversity of birds, bees, and butterflies for miles around you, not just on your roof.
Co2 Absorption - is what plants are best at. The bigger the greenroof, the more absorption.
Simply Beautiful - It becomes an amenity space where you and your friends/ family can enjoy.
Quieter - It reduces the sound transmission by up to 40 dB, which is huge!
Who else has adopted this technology?
Google, CA
FaceBook, CA
You Tube, CA
Empire State Building
Rockefeller Building
Millennium Park, Chicago
California Academy of Science
Frankfurt International Airport
Barclay Center, Brooklyn
Lincoln Center, New York City