Designing Green Homes
“The most expensive house is the one that has to be built twice.” The phrase, attributed to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) emphasizes building homes for todays’ climate. A balanced approach that prioritizes adaptive infrastructure and mitigation strategies like reducing emissions, managing stormwater and improving thermal efficiency is gaining traction among homeowners. We are seeing an uptake in single family residential homes integrating green infrastructure in new construction and retrofits. These efforts go a long way to future proofing our homes and meeting the environmental demands of our time. An accelerated use of nature-based solutions increases our resilience to climate change and decreases the stress placed on grey infrastructure. The building envelope can include features like green roofs, biosolar – solar panels integrated with a green roof, and living walls as well as rain gardens, water conservation techniques and permeable pavements.
As Canadian architectural firms and homeowners navigate net-zero and regenerative design we can be a trusted resource. If the plan includes a green roof, interior or exterior living wall or other vegetative oasis we provide value by delivering real-world insight and design synergy so green features don’t feel like add-ons but are woven into the architectural vision. We begin by helping to facilitate permits and grants where applicable. This step verifies that the homeowner meets municipal regulatory standards, zoning laws and leverages sustainability incentives. In the City of Toronto the Eco-Roof Incentive Program Application provides up to $100,000 in green roof incentives and up to $1,000 for a structural assessment grant (SAG). These programs make green inclusion more accessible and financially viable.
Green Roof Retrofit
While new construction offers more flexibility retrofitting a carport, garage, laneway suite or roof with vegetation requires specific considerations – most notably because they weren’t originally designed to have a green roof. The structure, roof membrane and irrigation need to be assessed and potentially re-enforced to prevent leaks or other damage from happening. A structural assessment determines whether the buildings’ roof can safely support the additional weight. The load bearing capacity can be identified in four groups:
- Dead Load – factors the weight of the green roof system inclusive of soil or other growing medium, plants, waterproofing and drainage layers
- Live Load – considers temporary loads such as installation crews walking on the roof, maintenance equipment, and snow accumulation
- Water Retention Load – is the weight of water the soil retains after precipitation
- Wind and Uplift Forces – evaluates how wind could affect the roof system, this is especially important in taller structures or exposed areas
These assessments secure the integrity of the property so that the roof won’t slump or warp under the new weight. A structural engineer leads the analysis, roofing contractors evaluate waterproofing and drainage capabilities, with a green roof specialist recommending plant selections, soil depth and environmental performance. Typically, residential green roofs in Canada are extensive which means that their soil depth is less than six inches and they are generally not accessible to foot traffic. A semi-extensive has deeper soil allowing for a larger plant palette that can include small shrubs, herbs and grasses also with limited accessibility. An intensive green roof has eight plus inches of soil and is generally fully accessible as a rooftop garden or landscaped amenity space. As a general rule, deeper soil or substrate has a greater variety of vegetation which can increase maintenance demands and installation costs. While comprehensive cost-benefit analyses are still emerging, it’s widely accepted that with proper upkeep, an eco-roof can significantly outlast and outperform a conventional roof.
GINKGO is one of the largest green roof installers in Canada, with decades of progressive experience. We are trained by, and work with all the major system manufactures so we know upfront what is feasible to install. We aren’t tied to a spec, so we recommend the best system for the home factoring in drainage, roof slopes, overhangs, edging treatments and any site-specific access challenges. Considering construction logistics from start to finish means the investment is sound for the long-term.
Our in-house horticulturists have deep knowledge of plant behaviour – sun vs shade, a mix of both, seasonal cycles and microclimates, designing and installing every square metre to flourish. Full coverage at peak performance means knowing what will grow, when and where – it’s a vital part of the process. Maintenance isn’t an afterthought – it’s essential. Neglect is a compromising choice that can lead to costly and avoidable future repairs. Just as you invest in the behind the wall systems of a home such as plumbing, electrical and HVAC, your rooftop is a living system that deserves the same attention. We help homeowners plan costs around seasonal upkeep and ongoing care. This proactive approach is always more economical than starting over.
Future Proofing Canadian Homes
We need to think of housing as a dynamic life cycle, one that adapts, endures and evolves. Under the strain of climate change, affordability is inseparable from resilience making a green home a smart home. Going green doesn’t mean going it alone. As skilled green roof installers we are more than a contractor. Consider us a transformative partner who’s with you every step of the way.
If you would like more information, connect with us at sales@ginkgosustainability.com
