Site Evaluation and Consultation

We begin with a comprehensive assessment of your property to determine if a green roof installation is suitable. Our experts examine your roof's structural capacity, slope, access points, and drainage systems. This evaluation helps us identify any potential challenges before work begins.

During the consultation, we discuss your goals for the green roof. Are you looking for energy savings, stormwater management, or enhanced aesthetics? We'll explain the benefits specific to your situation.

We also consider your local climate and building codes. Michigan's varying weather conditions require careful planning to ensure your green roof thrives year-round. Our team provides realistic timelines and detailed cost estimates based on this initial assessment.

You'll receive a written report outlining our findings and recommendations before moving to the next phase.

Customized Design Planning

Based on our evaluation, we create a tailored green roof design that matches your specific needs. Our designs factor in load capacity, plant selection, and maintenance requirements. We offer two main green roof types:

• Extensive systems: Lightweight options (4-6 inches of soil) with drought-resistant plants
• Intensive systems: Deeper soil profiles supporting a wider variety of vegetation, including small trees and shrubs
  

Material Selection and Sourcing

Quality materials are essential for a successful green roof. We source specialized green roof soil blends designed for proper drainage while providing necessary nutrients for plants. Our plant selection focuses on species that:

• Thrive in Michigan's climate
• Require minimal maintenance
• Provide maximum environmental benefits
• Meet your aesthetic preferences

For extensive roofs, we typically recommend sedum varieties, native grasses, and wildflowers. Intensive roofs can support a wider range of plants including perennials and small shrubs.

We partner with local nurseries when possible to ensure plants are acclimated to our region. Our blower and conveyor truck technology allows us to efficiently transport and install various soil blends and aggregates, even at heights of up to 195 feet.

Professional Installation

Our certified installation team follows a systematic approach to ensure proper green roof application:

First, we prepare the existing roof by thoroughly cleaning the surface and applying a high-quality waterproofing membrane. This critical barrier protects your building from moisture damage.

Next, we install the root barrier and drainage system. Proper drainage prevents water accumulation that could damage your roof structure.

We then use our specialized blower trucks to apply the growing medium evenly across the prepared surface. This technology allows precise application even on difficult-to-access roofs.

Finally, we carefully place vegetation according to the design plan. Depending on the project, we may use pre-grown mats, plugs, or seeds. We implement an initial irrigation and nurturing plan to establish healthy plant growth.

Sustainable Plant Selections

We carefully select plants that thrive in local Michigan climates with minimal maintenance. Sedum varieties form the backbone of many of our installations due to their drought resistance and shallow root systems. These hardy plants survive Michigan winters while providing beautiful color changes throughout the seasons.

Native grasses and wildflowers can be incorporated to support local pollinators and wildlife. These plants require less water once established and help create a natural ecosystem on your roof.

For intensive green roofs, we can include larger plants and even small shrubs that provide greater insulation and aesthetic appeal. Our horticulturists work with you to determine the right plant palette based on your specific location, roof structure, and maintenance preferences.

Waterproofing and Drainage Solutions

Every green roof begins with a high-quality waterproofing membrane that protects your building structure. We use durable white roofing membranes that reflect sunlight and increase energy efficiency.

Our specialized drainage systems prevent water pooling while ensuring plants receive adequate moisture. This balance is critical to roof longevity and plant health.

We install filter fabrics that keep soil in place while allowing water to move freely through the system. This prevents clogging and extends the life of your drainage components.

Root barriers protect your roof structure from aggressive plant growth while water retention layers help store rainwater for plant use during dry periods. Our comprehensive approach ensures your green roof functions as a complete ecosystem.

Energy Efficiency Features

Green roofs can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30% through natural insulation. The soil and plant layers add significant R-value to your roof system.

We incorporate cool roof technology that reflects sunlight rather than absorbing it. This dramatically reduces the urban heat island effect and lowers interior temperatures during summer months.

Our systems create thermal mass that moderates temperature swings, keeping buildings warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This consistent temperature control reduces the workload on your HVAC systems.

Proper installation techniques ensure maximum energy benefits from your green roof. We carefully calibrate soil depths and plant selections to optimize insulation values while maintaining structural integrity.