Simple Maintenance Tips for Roofs

Posted on: 6 April 2020

If you've decided that this spring is the time to tackle that home remodeling project you've been dreaming about, you might be thinking about including a new roof in your remodeling plans. This is especially true if you are remodeling to make your home more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. A vegetative roof is a great option, but one that comes with some important considerations. Here are a few things you need to think about if a vegetative roof is in your remodeling plan.

A Support Structure Is Critical

The structural support needed for most roofing materials is minimal. In most cases, the added weight of the roofing materials isn't significant enough to pose substantial concerns. However, when you are dealing with a vegetative roof, that all changes.

There are several key weight-related factors that you need to think about. Not only will you have the structure that you must build for the planting beds, but you'll also have soil and vegetation, all of which can add significant weight to your roof.

That makes it crucial that you discuss the support structure with your remodeling contractor. Make sure that the sublayer is built strong enough to hold up with that added weight on the surface.

The Soil Selection Is Important

For avid gardeners, the importance of soil selection is typically pretty clear. However, even for those with extensive gardening experience, the selection of soil for a vegetative roof requires some considerations that you might not otherwise have.

Remember that the soil used for the vegetation is likely to be the heaviest component of your new roof structure and it's going to be a crucial element for water retention and drainage. You'll want to choose a soil product that is designed for thorough drainage. The last thing you want is a lot of water saturating the soil and staying there.

Not only does that water make the soil heavy, but it also creates a moist environment that can threaten the integrity of the roofing material. Opt for a soil product that is sandy and drains well to help avoid this issue.

You Need A Water Barrier

Since vegetative roofing needs water, you also need to consider the potential damage concerns from all of that water. Water and roofing materials don't mix well, so you need to protect your roof from damage caused by that water. Before the roof is installed, it should be protected from the water. 

A water barrier creates the protection that you need. Your remodeling contractor will install a barrier product, such as water-repelling sheeting, to keep the water off your roof. 

For more information, look for someone who provides home remodeling services.