How to know what to order

All you need to know before you begin to install your green roof system:

Waterproofing layer

Is your roof watertight? What is it made of e.g., EPDM/GRP/Fibreglass? It is important to understand what can be placed onto this layer and if it needs a Protective Cover or Root Barrier Foil. Felt always requires a Root Barrier Foil as it isn’t resistant. To plant roots.

If in any doubt, ask the waterproofing membrane manufacturer for advice..

N.B. We do not provide or advise on your waterproofing layer, this should be discussed with your roofer or builder.

Weight bearing capacity

A Structural Engineer/Architect or the manufacturer of your structure and roof can potentially calculate or provide this for you. This is NOT a calculation we can make on your behalf. Please be sure that you’re comfortable with the information you have as adding too much weight onto a roof can have disastrous results

Roof pitch

It’s important to know this to ensure the correct system is applied. Our systems are straightforward when added to a roof pitch between 0° and 15°, but we can supply bespoke green roof solutions for pitches outside of these when required.

Drainage

Where does the rainwater run-off go? Do you have a gutter or down pipe where it will fall? We have various products that will work with your drainage structure, ensuring rainwater is able to exit the roof.

Up-Stand/Parapet/Roof edging

Do you have an up stand around the roof? If not, then our Roof Edge Drainage Profiles and Roof Separation Profiles can be used to create an up stand, which then holds the system in place and gives it an edge.

You will need the following measurements:

Overall m2 dimensions

This is the full area of the roof to be greened.

Linear meters

These are the measurements of each side of the roof, see example below. It’s important to know this to be able to work out how much product is required around these sides, such as Gravel for your borders and Roof Edge Profiles or Separation Profiles.

Lanterns/Roof/Sky lights

Measurements of these are required to work out the Gravel border amounts and also to deduct this measurement from the overall dimensions of the surface area.

Fire Breaks 

Measurements of any sides adjoining the wall of the house / building are crucial as this area/side requires a Gravel border/ballast which acts as a fire break.

 

  • What is the drainage system? Guttering, down pipes, outlet or something else?
  • Is a Roof Edge Drainage Profile required to hold the system in place whilst allowing the rainwater run off to flow into the guttering?
  • Will the drainage area require a Leaf Trap or Wire Bulb Grille to stop the area becoming blocked?
  • Does the area require a Gravel border around it to ensure sedum doesn’t grow into/over it?
  • How easy is your address to find by a delivery driver?
  • Are there any useful notes to add when placing your order
  • Can you provide What3words?
  • How tight is the road being delivered to? Can a bin truck sized vehicle fit down the road?

Pallets are used and delivered kerbside, so you need to consider how you will move your green roof system onto your roof.

Do you have someone to help or access to a forklift?

You will also be responsible for disposing of the pallet on which your goods have been delivered.

We have installation videos for each of our systems to give you a good idea of what is involved. 

Trays / Modules can be easier for DIY enthusiasts, but there are now many local roofers, builders and landscapers adding green roof installation to their portfolio of services, if DIY isn’t for you.

Consider your roof’s accessibility and logistics

How will you get the system up on your roof and then how will you apply it? Do you need another pair of hands to help? 

Which system will be best for the situation? Sedum Trays, Lightweight Modules or Sedum Blankets and Roll system.

Although sedum is hardy and requires little maintenance, it still requires some weeding and a sedum conditioner boost around April/May and September/October each year. This ensures that the slow release fertiliser provides enough nutrients for the months ahead.

In extreme heat events i.e., continuous high temperatures with no rain for 2-4 weeks, watering is required, sometimes daily.

Can the roof be accessed for twice yearly maintenance and watering during extreme heat events?

The more biodiverse vegetation green roof systems require much more maintenance including mowing 1-2 times per year.

Need some advice?