Green roofs have been around for centuries, but only recently have they made a showing on the roofs of modern commercial buildings in the Southern California area. Because of new roofing technologies and better waterproofing materials, owners now have many more options when considering a green roof for their buildings. The Los Angeles area gets very little rain and is a relatively dry climate, so green roofs were never considered very practical in the past. We now have plant varieties available that are highly drought tolerant, along with advanced soil composites that hold water longer.
Some roofing manufacturers have designed roof systems, specifically for the green roof application – we recommend and install the GAF GardenscapeTM system, for a variety of reasons. Unlike other green roof systems, GardenscapesTM can be completely maintained by a certified roofing contractor. And, the entire system is guaranteed – the roof and the plants – no other system available can offer this. Typically, an owner would have to deal with a roofing contractor, a landscaper, etc. – not with GardenscapesTM. Ferguson & Melvin Co. offers a complete turn-key solution for your garden roof installation.
1) Choosing the right plans is one of the most critical factors for a successful garden roof. Ferguson & Melvin Co. offers a choice of regional varieties suited for the Los Angeles climate and to meet your personal taste and landscaping objectives. To see green roof plant samples, click here.
2) Exclusive Start-RiteTM growing medium is a custom formulated blend designed for the Los Angeles region. It includes a special organic super food that promotes fuller, faster plant growth. It also includes a carbon filtering compound, to help improve the quality of your runoff water.
3) The DuraGroTM system combines four functions in one. It protects the roofing membrane from direct contact with the soil. It retains just enough water to help keep the plants from drying out, while slowing the drainage of excess water into storm drains. Finally, it helps screen the drain water to keep the system from clogging.
4) The GardenscapeTM system relies on your choice of GAF’s single-ply TPO roof membrane for its reliable waterproofing ability. Your GardenscapeTM will actually improve the life of your roof by as much as 100%, because the vegetation protects the underlying membrane. The energy savings of the building is sometimes up to 15% of total usage, as the system significantly decreases heat transfer from the sun through the top of the building. And, the GardenscapeTM system qualifies for LEED credit, and various tax incentives may be available from federal, state, and local governments.
Your GardenscapeTM will actually improve the life of your roof by as much as 100%, because the vegetation protects the underlying membrane. The energy savings of the building is sometimes up to 15% of total usage, as the system significantly decreases heat transfer from the sun through the top of the building. And, the GardenscapeTM system qualifies for LEED credit, and various tax incentives may be available from federal, state, and local governments.
Call our office today at (800) 974-ROOF or click here to request a quote.