Roofing

Installing a green roof requires a considerable investment and the upkeep may be more involved (in some ways) than a traditional roof. As such, many building owners in NYC and the Northeast may wonder if installing a green roof is worth the required investment. So, is a green roof worth it? The short answer: Yes! Green roofs offer a great value proposition while also protecting the environment. 

How about the long answer? We’ll dig into that. First, however, let’s look at what green roofs actually are.

What is a Green Roof Anyways?

Green roofs are used to describe a variety of sustainable roofing options, including solar panels and garden roofs, which are covered in plants, such as grass. When people say “green roof” they are often referring to the latter roofs covered in plants. That said, solar panel roofs are also worth close consideration and are a great green roofing option.

Roofs covered with plants are called “garden roofs.” In many cases, it’s possible to literally grow food on the rooftop. You might grow carrots, strawberries, or similar plants. Of course, if you opt to grow crops, you’ll want to select plants that are appropriate for the local climate in New York and the Northeast at large. It’s also smart to pick crops that you know you’ll eat.

You don’t have to grow food on a garden roof, however. You might instead grow grass and then you could even set up a patio or other green space. Of course, if you’re going to use your roof in such a manner, you’ll need to make sure that you have the proper safety features set up, such as railings. You’ll need to make sure that the roof can support the added weight. It’s also wise to check the regulations in NYC or wherever you’re located.

With solar panel roofs, you’re likely not going to turn your roof into a green space. However, you can still tap into the advantages of a green roof. Let’s take a look at the advantages of green roofs in NYC and the greater Northeast.

Here’s Why Green Roofs are Worth the Investment

A study conducted back in 2006 found that while green roofs cost more upfront than traditional roofs ($464,000 vs $335,000, respectively), a green roof will save around $200,000 over its lifespan, which much of the savings coming in the form of lower energy consumption. This study should probably be updated, but in the years since, green roofs have generally become more affordable while utility bills have crept upward.

In other words, a green roof today might save you even more money while requiring less of an investment. How do green roofs save money? For one, they offer better insulation, meaning less heat or cooled air will escape from the building. Two, green roofs absorb heat from the sun, which may result in lower energy bills. Third, green roofs are better at absorbing and dissipating water. This can prevent water damage and help with other issues too.

Green roofs will also outlast many other types of roofs. Of course, the roofs must be properly maintained to maximize longevity, but your green roof may last several years longer than a traditional roof. As for garden roofs, if you grow food, that can save some money too. With grocery prices on the rise across the Northeast, many folks are looking for ways to save money in the kitchen.

A solar roof, meanwhile, will prevent up to 38 percent of sunlight from ever reaching the rooftop. Much of the energy ends up being converted to electricity.  Solar roofs will also save on utility bills, and it may be possible to secure subsidies. The amount of savings will depend greatly on the solar panels selected, the size and position of the roof, and various other individual factors.

Based on all the above, installing a green roof is often a financially wise choice. That said, one of the biggest benefits of a sustainable roof is protecting the environment.

Protect Tomorrow Today with a Sustainable Roof

It’s important to remember that there is only one world, and at least for now, humanity is stuck here. If we don’t take care of the planet, future generations might suffer. Installing a green roof won’t save the world but it may contribute to a more prosperous future. By reducing energy consumption, green roofs can reduce our impact on the environment.

Further, green roofs provide a lot of environmental benefits in the here and now. Both solar and garden roofs can reduce the heat island effect common in NYC and other large cities/urban areas along the East Coast. Water run-off is also a major risk in many so-called “cement jungles” including not just New York, but also Boston, Philadelphia, and more.

Even modern, well-maintained sewage systems can struggle to deal with a deluge of water. A study conducted at Penn State found that a green roof can retain 50% or more of rainwater, which is then evaporated back into the atmosphere. In other words, the water may never even reach the drainage system. Some water will still reach the drains, but green roofs can slow the flow enough to help prevent such systems from getting overwhelmed.

There are many more benefits associated with green roofs, including solar, garden, and other varieties. If you’d like to explore roofing options, contact us at your convenience.