Main Types of Green Roofs

Depending on their structure, characteristics and specific benefits there are several types of green roof systems. In general, the factors that determine which type of system works best for a building are determined by the architecture of the building, climatic factors and techno-economic objectives.

Extensive Green Roof

100-200 mm, 130-260 kg/m2

The extensive roof is especially ideal for industrial buildings and inaccesible decorative roofs, it has a low weight and a resistance structure that allows obtaining a green roof for almost standard buildings without the need for massive reinforcements.

This type of green roof is the easiest and most affordable. It generally consists of thin layers of soil and hardy plants such as grasses and mosses. It requires less maintenance and can be installed on most buildings. Extensive green roofs are generally recommended for any building with a flat or pitched roof up to 75°.

Nowadays, with the recognition of the many positive ecological and economic effects of green roofs, there is a growing demand for the development of self-sustaining ecosystems.

Using Sedum-Mix or Sedum+Biodiverse Plants is the most effective way to quickly create self-sustaining, low-maintenance green spaces.

Extensive Green Roof

Semi-intensive Green Roof

150-200 mm, 200-300 kg/m2

The semi-intensive green roof is recommended for residential and commercial projects with an average load-bearing capacity. It can accommodate a variety of ornamental plants, so it's the perfect solution for those looking for a balance between functionality and natural beauty.

The system combines elements from the two types of green roof, respectively extensive and intensive. It can include a variety of plants that require moderate maintenance. It is more versatile than the extensive green roof as it offers a wide range of design options, with a wider variety of plants and better water holding capacity, but requires more care.

The depth of the substrate is greater than in the case of the extensive system, but less than in the case of the intensive green roof.

Plants used for the semi-intensive green roof include species of: turf, grasses, perennials, succulents or small shrubs. The most widespread top layer of semi-intensive green roof is the biodiverse resembling wild meadows with thousands of flowers.

Intensive Green Roof

200+ mm, 300-1000 kg/m2

The intensive green roof is the perfect choice for ambitious projects! It is recommended for buildings with high bearing capacity, as it has a more robust structure. The structure of the system allows the creation of high and lush green spaces, provides a platform rich in vegetation with a diverse range of plants.

It is the most complex system because it is composed of larger plants such as shrubs and trees as well as grasses and flowers. It requires a strong support structure and a greater thickness of the substrate reaching even 1.5 m thick.

They also require more careful maintenance, but provide ideal habitat for a greater variety of plants and can create a more sophisticated and attractive green space.

Intensive green roofs are generally recommended for buildings with a flat roof or with an inclination of up to 5° and a large roof area, such as office buildings, shopping centers, public institutions or residential buildings, multi-storey underground parkings.

They are generally used for projects that aim to create an oasis of greenery in congested urban areas.