If you're looking for space for more greenery on your property, look up: Many homes and apartment blocks have hidden surfaces waiting to be transformed with perennials and shrubs.
Flat roofs, such as those on garages or carports, can often be quickly turned into a green oasis that's both beautiful to look at and good for nature.
In addition to adding a new space to spend time and the ecological value, there are other points in favour of planting. Green roofs act as water reservoirs that soak up rainwater, which means less strain on the sewage system.
Evaporation through the vegetation also creates a better microclimate, and the air in the immediate vicinity becomes cooler.
For those who want to green their garage on their own, you should opt for what experts call ‘extensive greening’. For this, spread a layer of substrate a few centimetres thick on the flat roof and plant low-growing, weather-resistant plants.
It is important to check the roof's structure and impermeability beforehand. As a rule, only between 60kg and 150kg of weight are involved, which is roughly equivalent to a load of gravel.
The material costs will vary depending on where you're located, but are estimated at €30 to €60 (RM148 to RM296) per square metre in Western Europe.
If you are aiming for lush vegetation with shrubs, you should definitely consult a professional – these roofs will need a much thicker layer of plant substrate, as well as more elaborate planning. The costs are therefore much higher.
As a rule, no building permit is required for extensive greening of a garage or carport. However, consumer protection experts recommend asking the responsible building authority beforehand. Your local authority may even contribute to the costs through a grant or subsidy.
In some countries, green roofs have even been made mandatory for new buildings in some areas. – dpa
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