Marcy-Holmes Neighborhood
Rainwater Resource Recycling
Demonstration Project

Extensive Green Roof Technology

Definition

• Roof covered with 2"-5" of light weight growing medium and plants able to thrive in conditions of drought, high winds and high sun exposure in little soil with no ambient heat.
• Weight is comparable to that of a gravel ballast roof.
  Typically does not require additional structural support.

Description/ Components

Advantages

• Reduces runoff from roof surface an average of 75% compared to a traditional impervious roof
  • Lowers cost of stormwater management infrastructure
  • Reduces downstream flooding, sedimentation and lakeshore and streambank erosion by minimizing rainfall that enters into storm sewers
  • Vegetation cleanses rainwater from heavy metals and excess nutrients - over 95% of cadmium, copper and lead and 16% of zinc can be removed from rainwater by roof garden plants; nitrogen can also be substantially reduced.
• Insulates building, contributing to energy savings.
• Prolongs life of roof by shielding the roof from the effects of ultraviolet radiation, temperature extremes, and mechanical damage.
• Reduces ambient air temperatures (in contrast to impervious roofs, which greatly increase temperatures).
• Filters and binds dust particles and naturally filters airborne toxins.
• Enhances aesthetics.
• Provides acoustic insulation.
• Lessens stormwater utility fees.

Typical Cost

$15-$20 per square foot +/-

Marcy-Holmes Neighborhood Extensive Green Roof Technology Demonstration (see walking tour link for map)

Installaion of green roof on garage at 1205 7th St SE

For more information: contact The Kestrel Design Group, Inc. at 952 928-9600 or tkdg@thekestreldesigngroup.com

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