Eco Lofts > Roofing & Water



Green Roofs


Green/Living roofs have the capability of introducing a whole range of plant species from mosses, ferns, orchids, tropical plant species, sedums, herbs and edible plants grown organically. They provide:

• Reduction of Heat Urban Island - Research suggests we need a 10% increase in green space in our cities to help combat climate change. Green roofs are recognized to have a positive effect on this.

• Biodiversity - Green roofs can provide important refuges for wildlife in urban areas.

• Water - Green roofs can significantly reduce the surface run-off volumes and rates of rainfall leaving roofs. Green roofs can help reduce flash floods as a consequence of intense rainfall events and improves the quality of water which can be harvested.

• Thermal Performance - Green roofs have been shown to significantly reduce the need for air conditioning in summer and can provide a degree of insulation in winter.

• Sound Insulation - The combination of soil, plants and trapped layers of air within green roof systems can act as a sound insulation barrier. Sound waves are absorbed, reflected or deflected.

• Protection of Waterproofing - Green roofs can double if not triple the life of waterproofing membranes beneath the green roof.

• Air Quality – airborne particles and pollutants are filtered from the atmosphere by the substrates and vegetation on a green roof.



Water Harvesting


Rainwater harvesting can cut the amount of water that a home uses from their water supplier by up to 50%. They can be below ground or above ground and can be used for a variety of purposes. Some of the reasons for rainwater harvesting are:

• Rainwater harvesting displaces a large proportion of the water that would otherwise be provided by the mains supply.

• A rainwater harvesting system can provide off-mains supply for remote areas.

• Rainwater harvesting systems enhance a property and can completely satisfy the water requirements of the various levels of the code for sustainable homes.

• A rainwater harvesting system can reduce the risk of flooding by reducing storm-water runoff and controlling the flow-rate off site.