Building Logics

Apr 21, 2020 - 4 minute read - Vegetation

Basically there are two different types of green roof systems, either intensive or extensive

Intensive and Extensive

Basically there are two different types of green roof systems, either intensive or extensive. You will know the two types by their structures. An intensive roof normally requires a very massive structure to support it. If for example we wanted to have trees growing on top of our roof, it would be necessary to provide soil approximately three feet deep to sustain the desired vegetation. As you can imagine when that soil is wet, it will present a massive dead load on the structure. You will typically find an intensive system on parking decks, massive structures, and things like that where you have the structural capacity to support that kind of load. An extensive green roof system on the other hand is a very lightweight system that will impose a minimal dead load on the structure of the building. Typically with an extensive roof system, the entire area of the roof is green. The final roof covering is intended to make the entire roof appear like a meadow or field in a natural state. There are a variety of different elements involved in extensive and intensive roof systems. Each one of these roof systems will consist of a structural deck with insulation to comply with local energy codes on top of that. One questions often asked is; will the green roof itself add r-value to the roof system and to the building? The answer is yes; but only at certain times of the year. We are going to try to keep these roofs moist and anything that is wet becomes a thermal conductor, not an insulator. When you are calculating the r-value for a roof you should not include any additional r-value that will be generated by a green roof system. Always include the amount of insulation that will necessary to give the proper r-value required for the building.

Apr 21, 2020 - 1 minute read - Benefits

Building Logics Benefits

Conserves Energy Extends Life of The Roof Greatly Reduces Interior Sound Levels Dramatically Reduces Storm Water run-off and flow rate Environmentally Friendly Reduces Cost Over the Life of the Roof Restores Ecological and Aesthetic Value to Open Spaces Aesthetic and Psychological Benefits of Green Roofs

Apr 21, 2020 - 1 minute read - Vegetation

SOIL

Growing mediums for green roofs are as diverse as the species of vegetation being installed. Sedum (stone crop) is famous for growing in locations with no soil present, hence the name. Sedum will actually leave a nutrient rich environment and migrate to a less desirable medium such as rock or concrete. A desirable soil mix will be lightweight, allow rapid drainage of excess moisture and contain a minimal amount of organic matter.

Apr 21, 2020 - 1 minute read - Vegetation

Vegetation mats on roofs with root-resistant sealing membranes have proved successful in practice for over 20 years

Famoflor Mat I

Vegetation mats on roofs with root-resistant sealing membranes have proved successful in practice for over 20 years. The outstanding characteristic of FamoFlor is the high pore volume of approximately 95%. Vegetation mats store about 6 times their own weight in water with a maximum weight of only 10.2 lb. per sq ft (50 kg per square meter). Built-in clay minerals as well as long-term fertilizers and various mineral substances in the vegetation mat guarantee sustainable supplies of nutrients. Different pore sizes drain, filter and store water, even during sustained dry periods, and allow plants to grow safely.