Design & Lifestyle...

Yesterday we looked at green roofs for residential homes. Or I should say we started looking. We covered a DIY options and some green roof benefits. If you missed it, you can catch up by reading, The Basics of Green Roofs for Residential - Green Roof Homes.

Today let's look at some companies who cater to green residential roofing applications. If you aren't a professional builder, yet would love a green roof, it might be a better option to go with a professional design team. There are some important reasons for this:

Layout and design. Creating a green roof, is like placing a professional garden, or other landscaping, there are design aspects to consider - which plants go with which, how plants will hold up in your climate, and the general completed look. If you're not knowledgeable about landscape design it can be tricky to create a green roof.

Safety and liability. Do you know what will happen if you fall off your roof? Besides being hurt, you'll be paying for the whole accident. I've placed roofing and it's not easy. If you don't have a perfectly flat roof you could be in for some issues.

Costs can be higher if you do it yourself. You'll need to pay for scaffolding, the plants, materials, you'll lose time doing whatever it is you do normally, and it all can add up. It might be more cost efficient to go with a team who is quick and efficient for a set fee.

Upkeep: A professional team will help you to get the most out of your roof by informing you about proper upkeep. They can offer tips that you may not be able to learn on your own.

Where to find a company:

Often contractors with a background in green building can help you find a good local green roof company, or even set it up themselves. If you're already rebuilding or building new, working with your original design team may be an option.

Other green roof companies around the US include:

• LiveRoof
• Living Roofs
• Hydrotech, Inc. - Hydrotech is a cool company, I've talked with them for another blog I write and they are nothing if not nice and helpful.
• You can always check with Greenroofs.com
• The mother load of green roof links - seriously, a great list.

You might also like reading, Green Roof Plants: A Resource and Planting Guide.