FAQs
A green roof is a layered roof assembly that supports vegetation for aesthetic or usable purposes. ZinCo systems include numerous protection, drainage and filter layers, engineered growing medium, and carefully selected plants to create a long-lasting, high-performance vegetated roof.
What is a green roof?
Green roofs improve building insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, extend roof membrane lifespan, improve air quality, mitigate urban heat, and provide year-round environmental and economic benefits. They also enhance spaces through aesthetics or by creating usable surfaces for people to enjoy.
What are the benefits of including a green roof?
Yes. ZinCo systems are engineered for freeze-thaw cycles, snow loads, and extreme temperature fluctuations. In fact, snow can enhance insulation performance and protect vegetation during winter months.
Do green roofs work in Canadian winters?
Depending on the type of system, we suggest 1-4 maintenance visits per year. This normally includes a basic system inspection, weeding, and replating at necessary. More intensive systems require more maintenance than simple extensive green roofs.
What maintenance is required?
Yes. Many retrofit projects are possible after a structural assessment. ZinCo regularly supports retrofits across commercial, institutional, and residential buildings
Can green roofs be installed on existing buildings?
Costs vary by system type, depth, access, and project size. While initial costs are higher than conventional roofing, green roofs offer strong long-term ROI through energy savings, extended membrane life, and increased asset value.
How much to green roofs cost?
Most extensive systems use drought-tolerant sedum species, selected to survive Canadian climates. Intensive systems can a variety of support grasses, perennials, shrubs, and even trees.
What plants are used on green roofs?
Absolutely. ZinCo’s green roof and solar solutions combine vegetation with photovoltaic systems, improving panel efficiency, extending roof lifespan, and maximizing rooftop performance.
Can green roofs be integrated with solar?
Depending on the type of system installed, you can earn points in the Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy & Atmosphere, and Material & Resources LEED Categories. The more environmental and sustainable attributes you add to your green roof the more points you gain.
Do green roofs contribute to LEED points?
Yes. ZinCo offers a 10 - year product manufacturer warranty that is valid given the proper installation and maintenance is performed.
Does ZinCo Provide a warranty?
ZinCo green roof systems retain a minimum of 50%-70% of annual stormwater. However, by adding a stormwater detention spacer, you can detain up to 90% of annual stormwater and turn your green roof into a Blue Roof.