Are you looking to make a big change towards more sustainable living? There are a lot of approaches you could take, such as installing solar panels or building an earth home. But one top option to consider is having a green roof installed on your home. Here's an overview of what this involves and the advantages you can look forward to with a green roof.

What is a green roof?

A green roof is not just a shingle or metal roof that has been painted green. Rather, it is a roof that has been planted with plants. There is a soil layer that is housed in flat, planter-box-style compartments. Plants are rooted into that soil layer. Usually, the plants used are sedums since they do not require a lot of water.

What are the advantages of a green roof?

Green roofs have some advantages for both homeowners and the planet as a whole. For one, these roofs are good insulators. They help block the transfer of heat through the rooftop. This keeps your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, thereby reducing your use of energy for heating and cooling. Green roofs are also uniquely attractive. One will definitely make your home stand out.

Green roofs also help decrease the heat island effect in neighborhoods. They don't absorb as much heat as black or gray roofs, which means the whole area around your home will be a little cooler on hot days. Plus, the plants on the roof give off oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, which makes for cleaner air and less pollution.

What does it take to have a green roof installed?

First, you need to find a roofing company that installs this sort of roof. Not all roofing companies do, although it is becoming more popular. Once you find a company, you can get a quote, which will help you decide whether a green roof is in your budget. If you do decide to go ahead with the project, the roofers will do most of the work. Be aware that they may need to make some structural improvements to your roof or attic structures in order to support the green roof; they are heavy.

Hopefully you now have a better idea of what a green roof is and how they function. If you would like to make this sustainable upgrade, talk to a roofer in your area. For more information on a residential roof installation, contact a professional near you.