Advice provided by: Norman Crouse, LEED Green Associate, Tecta America Corp.

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Jim asks: I am on the east coast and am interested in installing a green roof on a small portion of my house. I would like to do it myself and have done research on various green roof systems but am not sure where to start. Is it advisable to do such a thing myself or use an expert (I have a tight budget). If so, what is the best "do it yourself" green roof system? Thanks alot.

Answer: Jim: There are residential tax credits available in counties and states throughout the Metropolitan East Coast. Depending on your needs, you may be able to fund it by yourself, but there are many variables to think about. We will make the assumption that you have some construction background.

First, a few questions:

- What time of year do you want to install the roof? Generally speaking, Fall is the best time to plant, so schedule your project for late summer, to take advantage of good root generation in the cool fall temperatures.

- Is there slope to the roof you wish to install the green application on.

- What is the roof load capacity of your roof structure. Most extensive green roofs can weigh between 12-18 lbs per sq. ft. You will need to check with and engineer and/or your local building codes the verify your roof capacity.

- If there is slope, what type of waterproofing do you want to install? Even with a sloped roof, it is advisable to use a single ply membrane that may require special tools and equipment to install.

- What type of plants are you looking to have in place? The majority of green roofs installed today are extensive, which means 3-4 “ of growth media (specialized manufactured soil),and require the following:

o a soil retention weave (for sloped roofs)

o a root barrier

o a water retention mat

o sedum plants – low root growth

- Plant colors, and dormant coloration are also considered when trying to visualize what your roof will look like year round

- What type of finished metal edge do you want to see? The color, metal type and shape is a final consideration for any roof system and one that will need to be specified and signed off on by you, the Owner. Much of the metal edging used is shop fabricated, and cannot be bought off the shelf.

- Will you incorporate a cistern reservoir for the rain water that does get released from the roof system.

The last thought is time. A contractor with the experience, tools and qualified personnel can complete a 1,000 sq ft sloped green roof application within 2-3 days. The same company also will be educated on the initial watering requirements, weeding and general care needed to nurture the roof during its initial growing season.

I hope the information above has helped with questions you may not have thought through, and some answers to questions you already had.

Feel free to call me directly with any additional questions you may have regarding green roofs.

Be well and good planting!

Respectfully,