I’ve been into living roofs since architecture school.
We studied earth dwellings in one of our environmental design courses, and the benefits made sense. The earth can help keep a home’s temperature comfortable, and have a smaller impact on the planet. As long as we use the site characteristics respectfully within the earth shelter design, and aren’t tearing up the site to build the new home, an earth shelter can be less invasive. And a live roof opens up possibilities.
I think it’s the idea of having a picnic and playing on a grassy patch full of wildflowers on top my home that just sounds like fun.
Sadly, I haven’t had the opportunity, or created the opportunity to live in an earth dwelling. (My bigger desire to live near density so I don’t have to drive everywhere. That is a bigger tug on where I live.)
The only downside to earth shelters would be the challenge of funneling natural light. But fixed flat rooflights and thermal walk-on rooflights change that game altogether.
A walkable rooflight, also called a skylight, could be perfect for those who have a flat-ish green roof that’s used as an entertainment terrace. It makes it more safe when tending to a green roof. And walkable skylights would be perfect for an earth-dwelling, too.
If you search online, you’ll find companies that make walkable skylights. I was just introduced to Tuffx Processed Glass, which makes fixed flat rooflights and thermal walk-on rooflights. They also make glow heated glass, which is electrically heated double glazing that actually radiates heat into a home. range of clear, privacy and anti-slip finishes.
Benefits of skylights and green roofs?
Green roofs with skylights have many benefits to a home. Beyond just allowing more light into a space, a green roof increases the thermal efficiency of a house. Plants absorb the energy from the sun. This means that you would expect to need less air conditioning and heating, saving money and decreasing the home’s environmental impact.
The plants on a green roof also help with water runoff. Plants absorb water, instead of just directing it all to the ground.
When a home has a green roof, the roof’s life expectancy is double or more a traditional roofing material. The plants are another barrier, helping to protect the roof against the weather.
We have two traditional skylights and a tubular skylight at our home, which we enjoy. The amount of light truly transforms the spaces. But I still dream about a green roof with skylights.
Do you have a green roof? Ever thought about having a green roof? Love to know what you think. Please share below.
