Essential Green Roof Construction, Sustainable Building Essentials

For the do it yourself builder, an “essential guide . . . to install and maintain a beautiful and ecological compliment to your home or office” (Kelly Hart, author of Essential Earthbag Construction).

Essential Green Roof Construction is a comprehensive, in-depth guide to building simple green roofs for houses and small buildings.

Packed with detailed photos, illustrations, case studies, and code compliance advice, it offers clear step-by-step instructions necessary to create your own living roof on a new build or as a retrofit. This book includes:The benefits of a green roofThe basics of planning and designAssessing site conditions such as aspect, slope, and loadsNavigating building codes and working with building officialsMaterial options, including professional grade and economical or local alternativesPlanting suggestions for different roof climates and conditions, including food productionWhen to call on professionals to ensure safety and integrityStep-by-step guidance for safe roof installation and detailingAnnual green roof maintenance.

Where common sense meets beauty—a green roof is a system of layers that work together to support plant life, insulate homes, and make the world a greener place.

Essential Green Roof Construction will give you the knowledge and confidence to install your own green roof.

“Impressive . . . and, importantly, easy for the average person to understand.” —Stephen Hill, associate professor, School of the Environment, Trent University

“Well-written, well-researched, and full of clear and informative drawings and photos.” —Lloyd Kahn, editor-in-chief, Shelter Publications, author, Shelter and The Half-Acre Homestead

“An excellent resource for both DIY and design professionals.” —Tim Krahn, P. Eng. Building Alternatives Inc., author, Essential Rammed Earth Construction