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Green Roofs
Green roofs, vertical gardens, and green facades represent one of the most intriguing construction trends of recent years, though their history spans much longer. Ecological spatial solutions enjoy popularity across many European countries, with Norway, Denmark, Switzerland, and the Netherlands leading the way. However, Poland is also beginning to embrace green innovations. Last year, our market saw a variety of new and interesting developments in this area.
The attractive appearance of green expanses is not the only benefit of this approach. Economic and ecological aspects strongly support their use.
They respond to rapidly progressing climate changes. In concrete urban centers filled with buildings, squares, and sidewalks, so-called urban heat islands accumulate high temperatures. Green spatial solutions effectively reduce urban center temperatures. Another significant advantage is the creation of habitats for insects, birds, and small animals.
Greening public spaces also positively affects the well-being of residents, providing good areas for relaxation and recreation, and improves air quality. Green solutions are increasingly supported by local governments, which results in benefits such as property tax exemptions.
Thanks to all these positive aspects, it's likely that we will see more green facades, roofs, and courtyards in the coming years.
What are Green Roofs?
Green roofs are surfaces separated from the ground by a building or other structure. It might seem that green roofs require elevation, yet they are often found at ground level. It's not uncommon to walk on green roofs without realizing it, such as when a parking garage is beneath us. Less obvious examples of green roofs include football stadiums, grass-covered tram tracks, some sidewalks, and patios in residential complexes.
Functional roofs can be created anywhere, but they are particularly effective in cities lacking vegetation. Interestingly, green roofs are not always literally green. Most often, they are covered with vegetation but can also be usable spaces like cafés, parks, or outdoor gyms.
Are Green Roofs Durable?
Green roofs enhance the lifespan of the roof itself. One of the primary factors that negatively affect roofs is daily temperature fluctuations. On green roofs, temperature variations are much less significant. While traditional roofing materials last about 15-25 years, professionally installed green roofs can remain in good condition for at least 40 years.
What Plants Can Be Found on a Green Roof?
The choice of plants depends on whether you opt for an extensive or intensive green roof. Extensive roofs have a thinner layer of substrate, limiting the variety of plant species that can successfully root and grow. For extensive roofs, it's wise to avoid high-maintenance plants. Various types of grasses might not be suitable because they can struggle to root properly, and maintaining them in hard-to-reach areas can be challenging. Succulents, mosses, sedums, and some herbs are ideal for extensive green roofs due to their low water and soil requirements.
Intensive green roofs, which can be installed in accessible areas like patios or over garage slabs, allow for a wider selection of vegetation. In these cases, you can accommodate grasses, flowers, shrubs, and even trees.
What Are the Main Benefits of Green Roofs?
In the urban jungle, there's a noticeable lack of greenery. Green roofs are a response to this need, enhancing the city's aesthetics and reducing the sense of overcrowding. One of the most significant benefits for building occupants is the recreational space that green roofs provide. Sometimes, just stepping out from a crowded office or home workspace and looking at greenery can give our eyes and mind a much-needed break. Greenery is vital for our mental health.
Vegetation planted on flat roofs positively affects air purification, retains up to 80% of stormwater, cleanses it, and reduces local temperatures (mitigating the urban heat island effect). Biodiversity is another undeniable advantage; green roofs and terraces create habitats for animals, birds, and insects.
Green roofs can reduce noise levels by up to 8 decibels, making urban noise almost half as loud.
Besides ecological aspects, green roofs also provide economic benefits. They act as natural air conditioning, reducing energy consumption. Green roofs extend the lifespan of roof waterproofing. Additionally, they are an investment benefit, increasing the property's value.
Property Tax Exemption
In an increasing number of Polish cities, properties with green roofs or living walls are exempt from property tax. This incentive already applies in cities such as Katowice, Gdańsk, Wrocław, and Kalisz. While residents of Poznań who install green roofs or vertical gardens may not be exempt from tax, they can expect subsidies. The city of Vienna was a pioneer in these incentives, offering residents advisory and financial support to encourage the greening of buildings.
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