Roof manufacturer BMI from Aalst saw a striking increase in the number of requests for the construction of green roofs during the lockdown.

A green roof is a multi-layered roof construction in which the top layer is covered with plants. Green roofs exist in all sizes and shapes, but in general we can distinguish the extensive and the intensive. The former consist of a thin layer of earth substrate, finished with sedum plants, grasses and mosses and are not intended for walking, but the intensive ones get a thicker layer of soil on which a wider range of plants and even trees can grow. On intensive roofs it is therefore possible to create a real roof garden. Green roofs offer a large number of advantages. For example, they create some extra green space for the house occupants, even if they are extensive roofs on which walking is not possible. But they also optimise the indoor climate by keeping the house cool in the summer and better insulating in the winter. In addition, on days when it is particularly warm, they significantly lower the temperature on the roof itself, which helps to extend the life of the roof covering. And above all, green roofs bring back a piece of nature that has had to give way to buildings. In this way they filter dust and harmful substances from the air and promote urban water management. Evaporation of the collected rainwater via the plants regulates humidity and temperature, prevents flooding and relieves the strain on the sewers. People can also place bee hotels and nesting boxes on a green roof, giving nature even more space. The most important condition for a green roof is that the roof construction must be strong enough to support the weight.

More info : www.bmigroup.com