Green roofs are no more than roofs that have a layer of vegetation added to them. A green roof uses living plant material as part of a roofing system. Green roofs are frequently formed by layers: a waterproof membrane, a root barrier, thermal insulation, a drainage system, a filter layer, growing medium and living plant material. Green roofs must be constructed correctly to support the added weight on the roof, but are an practically trouble-free eco-roof solution.

Intensive green roofs involve irrigation, weeding and care. Extensive green roofs need very little upkeep and have a thinner soil depth than an intensive roof. If a roof is made up of pre planted modular trays or containers which are positioned on the top of the roof then it is known as a modular green roof system.

Sheds can be exceedingly ugly. Most people who live in towns and cities look out onto expanses of black or grey roofs. Adding a garden roof to buildings such as sheds and outhouses will amend the view and might be the only chance for bringing plants and wildlife into an otherwise manmade brick landscape. A green roof is a fantastic way to transform a dull, functional space into something that’s living, breathing and aesthetically pleasing.

A green roof could be planted on a garden shed, porch, summerhouse, balcony, garage or small extension. Flat roofs lend themselves the best to roof gardens although it is possible to put a green roof on a pitched, barrelled or domed roof.

Adding a green roof to a garden building will reclaim the space that they take up, improve air quality and encourage wildlife into your garden.

The number of green roofs in the UK is very modest. Garden roofing can be a good way to help the environment, as well as being exceedingly fulfilling. A green roof on your shed will make your shed look more pretty and will be kind to the environment. Birds and insects can make use of a green roof. It also helps to reduce the amount of drain-off that the already overtaxed urban systems are being asked to handle.

A green roof will also give sound and heat insulation for your shed. The ‘life’ of your shed roof will be lengthened as a green roof adds further layers and protection from the elements. Ultimately this means that any shed roof maintenance or replacement will be far less frequent.

It’s important that the building is sturdy enough to hold the structure you build so a roof must be assessed first. A sloping roof can be supported by cementing posts into the ground that support the lower corners. Get professional advice if you are in any doubt of the load bearing potential of your roof.

Every green roof is unique due to the building and the location. Not all traditional roofers have experience with eco-friendly roofing materials. Discuss alternative materials available with roofers who commonly work with eco-friendly roofs. It is worth taking ideas about garden roofing from a reputable company that can show you examples of previous work that they have accomplished.

To view our gallery of garden roofing solutions or for help on green roofs please contact www.icb.uk.com.