Best Green Roof Underlayment

Essential layer for green roofs: provides crucial waterproofing, protects structure, and supports vegetation. A good green roof underlayment not only protects your building but also supports the plants growing above. This article will look at ten top options for green roof underlayment, highlighting their features and benefits. Whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor, this guide will help you make an informed decision about which underlayment is best for your project.

Key Takeaways

Hydrotech Garden Roof® Assemblies offer a reliable waterproofing solution while supporting vegetation.
FiberTite Green Roof Membrane is designed for sustainability and helps manage stormwater effectively.
Sika Sarnafil® Membrane is known for its durability and resistance to root penetration, making it a strong choice.
Carlisle SynTec EPDM provides excellent weather resistance and is easy to install on various structures.
GAF EverGuard® TPO is a popular option for its energy efficiency and long-lasting performance.

1. Hydrotech Garden Roof® Assemblies

Hydrotech Garden Roof Assemblies combine the reliability of Hydrotech’s Monolithic Membrane 6125® with green tech. These assemblies are lighter than typical earth-covered roofs, making them suitable for both new and existing buildings. A key benefit is their ability to reduce stormwater runoff, helping to restore ecological balance in urban areas.

Hydrotech understands that a green roof needs to function first as a roof, keeping the structure watertight, and at the same time provide an environment conducive to the vegetation.

Our Garden and Green Roof Assemblies successfully passed a series of tests and met the rigorous requirements to achieve FM Approvals.

Replacing a conventional roof with a green roof can significantly decrease stormwater runoff. This helps alleviate the strain on drainage and sewer systems, especially in cities where development constantly increases the risk of flooding. Green roofs also help keep buildings cool, reducing energy consumption.

Hydrotech offers a range of green roof assemblies to meet various design needs. These are generally classified by their application and intensity, allowing for customization based on specific project requirements. Sloped applications are also possible, expanding design options beyond traditional flat roofs. Slopes ranging from 3:12 up to 12:12 are possible for extensive and limited intensive applications, provided the appropriate measures are taken to cope with the shear forces and soil retention.

2. FiberTite Green Roof Membrane

FiberTite membranes are another solid choice when it comes to green roof underlayment. I’ve seen them used on a bunch of projects, and they seem to hold up pretty well. FiberTite’s big selling point is its KEE-modified PVC, which is supposed to offer superior resistance to chemicals, punctures, and UV radiation compared to standard PVC or TPO membranes.

One thing I appreciate about FiberTite is their focus on sustainability. They talk a lot about how their green roof products help with stormwater management and reduce energy consumption. Plus, they’re pretty vocal about how green roofs can create a quieter work environment by absorbing sound, which is a nice bonus.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes FiberTite stand out:

High chemical resistance
Puncture resistance
UV radiation resistance
Sustainable functions that help manage stormwater

I remember reading a case study where a building owner switched to FiberTite and saw a noticeable decrease in their energy bills. It’s not just about the environment; it can also make a real difference to the bottom line. It’s something to consider if you’re weighing different options.

FiberTite’s vegetative roof technology is based on sustainable functions that help manage stormwater, energy use and pollution. Energy-efficient roofing is growing in popularity across the world thanks to infrastructure.

3. Sika Sarnafil® Membrane

Sika Sarnafil® membranes are a popular choice for green roofs, and for good reason. They’ve been in the green roof game for over 30 years, racking up over 1.4 billion square meters of membrane installed worldwide. That’s a lot of trust from the industry!

One of the big selling points is that Sika’s roof waterproofing membranes are designed to resist both microorganisms and root penetration. Root resistance is super important, and Sarnafil® membranes have proven they can handle it with certifications like FLL. Plus, they make these membranes using top-notch materials, creating a monolithic, non-laminated membrane. This gives them great weather resistance and keeps them stable dimensionally.

Sika also says their single-ply membranes can be put in place in almost any weather, even when it’s below freezing. This gives contractors and designers a lot of flexibility. If you need it, Sika’s experts can help you out during your project, from helping architects with the design to training authorized installers.

Sika provides a range of products that can be used in a green roof system, including drainage composite boards (like Aquadrain 550), waterproofing membranes (like Sarnafil®/ Sikaplan®), protection layers (like S-Glass Fleece 120), thermal insulation (like Sarnatherm® and Sikatherm®), vapor control layers (like the Sarnavap® series), and even concrete substrate additives.

Here’s a quick rundown of why people pick Sika Sarnafil®:

Proven track record with decades of experience.
Root and microorganism resistance.
Flexibility in installation, even in cold weather.
Support from Sika’s experts throughout the project.

4. Carlisle SynTec EPDM

Carlisle SynTec EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a popular choice for green roofs, and for good reason. It’s basically a synthetic rubber, and it’s known for being super durable and resistant to all sorts of weather. Think of it as the reliable old pickup truck of roofing materials.

One of the biggest advantages of EPDM is its flexibility. It can handle the expansion and contraction that comes with temperature changes without cracking or becoming brittle. This is a big deal when you’re dealing with a green roof, which can have a lot of moisture and temperature fluctuations. Plus, it’s relatively easy to install, which can save you some money on labor costs. EPDM is a type of single-ply roof membrane that is easy to install.

EPDM membranes are also chemically inert, meaning they don’t react with most substances they come into contact with. This is important because green roofs involve soil, plants, and sometimes fertilizers, all of which could potentially degrade other types of roofing materials.

Here’s a quick rundown of why people choose Carlisle SynTec EPDM:

Durability: It lasts a long time, even in harsh conditions.
Flexibility: It can handle temperature changes without issues.
Chemical Resistance: It doesn’t react with common green roof components.
Ease of Installation: It’s relatively straightforward to install, which can save on labor costs.

While EPDM is great, it’s not perfect. It can be punctured if something sharp falls on it, so you need to make sure you have a good protection layer in place. Also, it’s typically black, which means it can absorb a lot of heat. This might not be ideal if you’re trying to create a cool roof and reduce your building’s energy consumption. But overall, it’s a solid choice for a green roof underlayment.

5. GAF EverGuard® TPO

GAF EverGuard® TPO is another contender in the green roof underlayment game. I’ve seen it used on a few projects, and it seems to hold up pretty well. It’s known for its heat-welded seams, which create a strong, watertight seal.

Here’s a quick rundown of why people consider it:

Reflectivity: TPO membranes are often white or light-colored, which helps reflect sunlight and reduce the building’s cooling costs.
Flexibility: It can handle some movement without cracking, which is good for a roof that’s going to be supporting plants and soil.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to some other options, TPO can be easier on the budget.

One thing to keep in mind is that TPO formulations can vary, so it’s worth checking the specific product data to make sure it meets the requirements for a green roof system. Also, proper installation is key to getting the most out of it.

6. Versico PVC Membrane

Versico’s PVC membranes are another solid choice for green roof underlayment. I’ve seen them used on a few projects, and they seem to hold up pretty well. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is known for its durability and resistance to chemicals, which is a plus when you’re dealing with soil and plant matter.

One thing to keep in mind is that PVC can be a bit less flexible than some other options, like EPDM. This might make installation a little trickier, especially on roofs with complex shapes or a lot of penetrations. However, the trade-off is often worth it for the long-term performance.

Here are some things to consider when thinking about Versico PVC for your green roof:

Longevity: PVC membranes are known for their long lifespan, often lasting for decades with proper installation and maintenance.
Seam Strength: Heat-welded seams create a strong, watertight bond, reducing the risk of leaks.
Cost: PVC is generally a cost-effective option compared to some of the more premium materials.

From what I’ve gathered, a well-installed Versico PVC membrane can provide a reliable and long-lasting foundation for a green roof, offering a good balance of cost and performance. Just make sure your installer is experienced with PVC and pays close attention to detail during the seaming process.

7. Tremco Vegetative Roof System

Tremco’s vegetative roof system is designed to create sustainable and aesthetically pleasing green roofs. It’s a comprehensive approach that integrates various components to ensure a long-lasting and effective green roof. The system aims to manage stormwater, reduce the urban heat island effect, and provide environmental benefits. It’s pretty cool how green roofs can help with stormwater runoff in cities.

The system typically includes a waterproofing membrane, a drainage layer, a filter fabric, a growing medium, and vegetation. Each component plays a vital role in the overall performance of the roof. The choice of vegetation is crucial, as it needs to be suitable for the local climate and require minimal maintenance.

Here are some key benefits of the Tremco Vegetative Roof System:

Improved stormwater management
Reduced energy consumption
Extended roof lifespan
Enhanced aesthetics

The system is designed for both new construction and retrofit projects. Proper installation is key to the success of any green roof, so make sure you get a certified installer.

8. American Hydrotech Monolithic Membrane 6125®

American Hydrotech’s Monolithic Membrane 6125® is a really interesting option for green roofs. It’s designed to act as a waterproofing layer, which is obviously super important. The idea is to create a seamless barrier that protects the building from water damage while also providing a base for the green roof system.

Unlike some other systems, the Monolithic Membrane 6125® is pretty lightweight, which means it can be used on both new and existing buildings. Plus, green roofs using this membrane can help reduce stormwater runoff, which is a big win for the environment. It’s all about trying to bring a bit of nature back into urban areas.

I think the best part about this system is that it focuses on the roof’s primary function: keeping water out. Then, it builds on that to create a space where plants can thrive. It’s a smart way to approach green roofing, and it seems like it could really make a difference in how we build in cities.

9. Soprema SopraGreen® System

Soprema’s SopraGreen® system is another comprehensive approach to green roofing. It’s designed to be a complete, integrated system, which means all the components are made to work together. This can simplify the installation process and help ensure long-term performance.

One of the big advantages of a system like SopraGreen® is that it takes the guesswork out of compatibility. You don’t have to worry about whether different layers will react poorly with each other or if the drainage layer will actually do its job. Soprema has engineered the system to function as a cohesive unit.

SopraGreen® systems often include:

A waterproofing membrane to protect the building structure.
A drainage layer to manage water flow and prevent waterlogging.
A filter fabric to keep soil particles from clogging the drainage.
A growing medium specifically formulated for green roofs.

Choosing a system like SopraGreen® can be a good option if you want a reliable, well-engineered solution. It’s worth looking into the specific components and performance data to see if it fits your project’s needs. Consider the green roof underlayment requirements for your project.

Soprema also offers different types of SopraGreen® systems to suit various needs, from extensive (shallow soil, low-maintenance plants) to intensive (deeper soil, wider plant selection) green roofs. This flexibility can be a real plus, depending on what you’re trying to achieve with your green roof.

10. IKO Green Roof System

IKO offers a comprehensive green roof system designed for both extensive and intensive applications. It’s pretty cool how they’ve thought about everything from the waterproofing layer to the vegetation itself. IKO’s system aims to create a sustainable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing green space on your roof. They’ve got a range of products that work together, which is always a plus.

One thing I appreciate about IKO is their focus on making the system relatively easy to install. They provide detailed guides and support, which can be a lifesaver if you’re not a seasoned pro. Plus, their system is designed to be low-maintenance, which is great for long-term cost savings. I mean, who wants to spend all their time up on the roof, right?

IKO’s green roof system is designed to manage stormwater runoff, reduce the urban heat island effect, and improve air quality. It’s a win-win for both the building owner and the environment. Plus, it looks pretty awesome.

Here’s a quick rundown of some key benefits:

Stormwater management
Energy efficiency
Extended roof lifespan
Aesthetic appeal

IKO also emphasizes the importance of selecting the right plants for your specific climate and roof conditions. They offer guidance on choosing vegetation that will thrive and provide the desired benefits. This is super important because the plants are what really make a green roof, well, green!

To ensure the longevity of your green roof, IKO provides a range of accessories, including deck protectors and synthetic underlayments, designed to work together for optimal roofing performance. It’s all about that cohesive system, you know?

Wrapping It Up

In conclusion, picking the right underlayment for your green roof is key to making it work well and last long. You want something that keeps water out and helps your plants thrive. There are a lot of options out there, each with its own perks. Whether you go for a lightweight system or something more robust, just make sure it fits your needs and the local climate. A good underlayment not only protects your building but also supports the plants above, making your green roof a beautiful and functional space. So, take your time, do your research, and choose wisely!