WATERPROOFING:

Green roofs do not replace the waterproofing. The Green Roof system is placed on a waterproofing membrane. Plant roots are strong. They can permeate into little cracks or seams. For that reason the roof membrane has to be root protected. When the waterproofing is not root protected an extra root barrier must be placed on top of the waterproofing. This root barrier however, never reaches the quality of a root protected waterproofing.

The choice of the waterproofing is optional and can be anything from bituminous membranes to PVC, EPDM or TPO. A fully bonded system is strongly recommended. This will prevent water tracking beneath the waterproofing in the event of damage to the membrane. This in turn minimizes the cost of removing the Green Roof to carry out repairs.

Details such as flashing, parapets, drains, roof slope, roof penetrations and types of insulation have to be adjusted according to the Green Roof system used. These adjustments should be finalized before construction of the roof commences. These details are the most critical elements for durable waterproofing and Green Roof systems.