Green Roofs Defined

Green roofs can be defined as vegetated rooftop covers installed over waterproof membranes, providing various ecological and economic benefits.
Green roofs can be classified as either ‘extensive’ or ‘intensive.’

Extensive Green Roofs

Extensive green roofs have shallow soil profiles that provide light weight green roofs for use on weight restricted projects and are less expensive than intensive green roofs. Generally, extensive green roofs require minimal maintenance and can thrive with minimal irrigation in certain climate zones.

Xero Flor green roof systems fall into this extensive category.

Intensive Green Roofs

Intensive green roofs have deep soil profiles that allow for a wide plant selection and high retention of storm water. Many intensive green roofs are made accessible and can be utilized as social and recreational green spaces. Typically, intensive green roofs are high maintenance and require greater irrigation usage.