Structural Requirements For A Green Roof

The basic anatomy of a green roof consists of vegetation growing medium filter membrane drainage layer waterproof root repellant layer roofing membrane support for plantings above thermal insulation vapor control layer and structural roof support.

Structural requirements for a green roof.

Green roofs are subject to the design and construction requirements detailed in article iv section 4 02 d in the rules and regulations pdf. The structural requirements for a green roof are the most important aspect to consider. Shallow pitched green roof 5 25 the structure of a shallow pitched green roof differs slightly from the structure of a flat roof. To ensure structural safety it s necessary to have a structural analysis verify that the roof and its support system are capable of supporting the added load without modification.

Because water runs off the roof more quickly a thicker substrate layer is needed. The existing roof may not be capable of supporting an additional load. All three types of roofs require specific layers of roofing materials not found on regular roofs. They are recognized as a bench mark set of guidelines for green roofs in germany.

The substrate gives the right amount of nutrients to the plants so your green roof stays nice and green. Structural engineers determine the loading requirements of a roof to resist live loads forces such as snow rainwater rooftop equipment green roofs and maintenance crews as well as dead loads the basic roofing structure and materials. You need to make sure that the structure can cope with the extra weight of your green roof especially when saturated with water. The load bearing capacity of a building must be known before planning a green roof wall or facade.

Of green roofs the fll green roof guidelines guidelines for the planning construction and maintenance of green roofs were developed from the principles for green roofing published in 1982 and have been revised several times since 1990. A structural engineer s advice is essential to ensure comprehensive design development based on the building s construction condition and weight loading capacity. Additional structural support may need to be provided. Steeply pitched green roof.

Structural support of the green roof. Removing unnecessary finishes may provide sufficient capacity for a green roof of equal weight. Some roofs are finished with substantial architectural build ups such as concrete pavers or stone. Read this section carefully before submitting architectural structural plumbing electrical or mechanical plans for a green roof.