In an urban city like Arlington, Fairfax, Vienna or other places in Northern Virginia, temperatures can soar higher not only because of environmental causes, but due to the sheer number of commercial establishments. To counter this so-called “urban heat island effect” or UHI, many homeowners and Northern Virginia roofing contractors are opting to install green roofs onto their buildings. Just what makes green roofs so famous?

Stormwater Management

Green roofs can minimize the risk of flooding and interior water damage. Basically, the stormwater will be stored by the substrate, which is then absorbed by plants and returned to the atmosphere; hence, no water is wasted, and runoff is significantly reduced. Green roofs are so efficient in fact, that it is said to be able to retain 70% – 90% of the precipitation falling upon it in the summer, and up to 40% in the winter.

Urban Cooling

As previously stated, the urban heat island effect can be minimized by green roofing. Sunlight is converted by the plants on the roof into heat energy for their own consumption, thereby reducing the amount of heat that penetrates the concrete and the structure’s interior. UHI is further mitigated as black rooftops, considered as the hottest surfaces in an urban environment, are covered by vegetation and other green roof components.

Using the Green

Exhibit City News, in a report, has this to say about the versatility of green roofs:

They are often used by chefs for hyper-sourcing, growing local and exotic herbs and produce onsite. Beehives are commonly installed on green roofs, so chefs can harvest the honey for cooking, selling and making signature spa products. Hyper-sourcing improves food quality and local flavor at a lower cost and with a good story to serve up.

Zen Spaces

In a city filled with towering infrastructures, noise and pollution, wouldn’t it be great to have a place for office employees and businessmen alike to relax and be comfortable in from time to time? What better place to do this than by enjoying the beauty of nature on the rooftops, away from the city’s bustle? This is also why healthcare facilities are among the first structures to make use of green roofs.

Remember that a green roof makes an excellent alternative thanks to its numerous environment-friendly benefits that extend well to the realm of urban areas. If you want to have one installed, hire only reputable Northern Virginia roofing contractors like Northern Virginia Roofing Company.

(Info from Benefits of Green Roofs Highlighted During CGA Group Tour, Exhibit City News, June 24, 2013)