re: Roof Maintenance Solutions’ article about the downside of green roofs - greater costs

We recently read this important article about some of the downsides of green roofs: Green Roofs Might Be the G.O.A.T., but They’re Not Without Challenges - Roof Maintenance Solutions

The article starts by mentioning the awesome example of goats living on green roofs in Coombs, B.C. (pictured in this article). Here’s a perfect example of green roofs being natural extensions of the landscape, almost growing naturally onto these roofs from the hillsides.

The article also highlights Toronto and while it’s a forerunner in the race to encourage green roofs in urban areas, the market here is immature, with many still slow to adapt or even know about green roof bylaws (or incentives).

The main downside of green roofs described in the article is related to costs. They can be expensive upfront, and while they lead to a longer lifespan for the roof in general, protecting it from harmful UV rays for instance, they can be expensive to replace.

However, the article ends up unearthing more positive impacts of green roofs as opposed to the costs associated with installation and maintenance - both of which are becoming cheaper and easier. The article highlights sedum trays instead of one field of sedum for easy install and removal, and Groof is aware of lighter green roof technologies across the market.