Biodiverse Green Roof Systems

Biodiverse Green Roof Build Up

Biodiverse green roof systems—sometimes referred to as brown or habitat roofs—are typically designed to support ecological objectives. These systems may aim to replicate, as far as practical, the ecological characteristics of the site prior to development or to create new habitats that support a range of plant and invertebrate species. 

System design may include varied substrate depths, habitat features (e.g., logs, stones, or sand piles), and planting strategies that encourage colonisation by local flora and fauna. Vegetation may be established through the application of seed mixes selected to support specific biodiversity goals, or through the use of pre-grown mats containing drought-tolerant wildflowers, grasses, and herbs. 

Substrate profiles can be varied across the roof area to accommodate different rooting depths and moisture retention characteristics, supporting a wider range of plant species. 

The SikaRoof® Biodiverse system meets the needs of the specifier who is looking to achieve a green roof with true biodiversity at all different levels. The use of a specialist biodiverse substrate and a biodiverse sedum blanket, in the build up differentiates it from an extensive roof type. The system can be laid with different levels of substrate with different planting regimes to recreate the natural landscape. 

SikaRoof® Biodiverse Green Roof System

The SikaRoof® Biodiverse Green Roof System includes: 

  • A protection fleece to safeguard the underlying waterproofing layer.
  • A drainage board and filter fleece to manage water retention and runoff. 
  • A specialist substrate formulated to support a range of plant species with varying nutrient and moisture requirements. 
  • Optional sedum or wildflower blankets, selected based on project-specific ecological objectives. 

 

This system may be suitable for projects where biodiversity enhancement is a planning requirement or design goal.