Frequently Asked Questions

  • Green roofs can be installed on most any roof. Although most green roofs are on low pitch/flat roofs, Hudson Valley Green Roofs can install a beautiful green roof on up to 12/12 pitch(45degrees). So if you want to see a lush green roof welcoming you home every time you pull into your driveway, we would love to create that for you.

  • Our green roofs are installed on top of a waterproof membrane. While we do not install these, we can inform your builder/architect on the best options for what should be under a green roof installation. They would want to design around TPO, PVC, or modified bitumen roofing membranes. Heat welded seams are always the best option for waterproofing under a living roof. If needed, we can help you find a local roofing specialist to prepare your roof for a beautiful and sustainable green roof.

  • Yes, our green roofs are perennial, meaning they come back year after year. Additionally, a rich color palette can keep your winters vibrant, as many green roof designs include year-round color(see “Projects”). While annual plantings are always possible, a fully perennial, region specific living roof is where our work thrives.

    Living roof gardens involve plant selection that stands out for its resiliency up on the roof. You can expect your rooftop garden to thrive as much as your ground-level gardens, only without the challenges of ground level pests munching on things. With some basic maintenance to establish plants, your green roof will thrive for years to come.

  • With a weight capacity report from an authorized individual/company (engineer, architect, etc), we can ease-fully move forward with designing and implementing your living roof.

    That being said, not all existing structures are a good match for green roofs due to the added weight. This is why the best time to discuss the potentials for a living roof are before construction or during renovation.

  • The cost of a green roof depends on many factors. Green roofs can be anywhere from 4” deep soil up to 12”-16” deep (and more)-it really depends on the design, the structural capacity, and customer’s desires.

    Depending on your design, a green roof will cost $40-$60/square foot on average.

  • Absolutely not. A properly installed waterproof membrane with a living roof on top of it, will last 60-70 years, tripling the life of the waterproof membrane beneath it.

    Any improperly installed roof will allow water to cause damage to your roof/home. When done properly, a green roof is as waterproof and protective as any roofing, but with many added benefits. Hudson Valley Green Roofs guarantees longevity and careful design to ensure this for all our customers. By utilizing techniques like flood testing, and working closely with engineers, we ensure your project is built to last.

  • Absolutely! That is one of the best parts of green roofs. Many clients who want solar, but don’t have enough sun, love the sustainable benefits of a green roof as a great alternative. There’s no way to make solar power without sun, but there are many plants that can grow gorgeously with little to no sunlight.