The Benefits of Wallbarn’s M-Tray® Modular Green Roof System

Urbanisation has led to an increasing need for green spaces in our cities. With the advent of innovative solutions like the M-Tray® modular green roof system by Wallbarn, transforming flat roofs into lush, green spaces has never been easier. Let’s delve into the myriad benefits this system offers and why it’s an excellent choice for urban dwellers.

1. Positive Environmental Impact

Green roofs, such as the M-Tray® system, have a significant positive effect on the environment. They contribute to reducing carbon dioxide concentrations by acting as a platform for vegetation that aids in air purification. This is particularly crucial in urban centres where the air is often laden with pollutants due to the lack of greenery.

1.1 Reduction in Heat Absorption

Green roofs help in the conservation of heat by minimising heat loss during winters and reducing heat absorption during hot weather. This, in turn, contributes to energy efficiency and can lead to substantial savings on energy bills.

1.2 Managing Stormwater Runoff

Stormwater runoff can be destructive and damaging. A green roof can mitigate this problem by retaining water, thus reducing its speed and impact on waterways.

2. Enhanced Durability

The M-Tray® green roof system enhances the durability of roofs. The grass and soil cover the waterproofing membrane, protecting the roof from harmful UV rays that cause faster degradation on conventional roofs. With proper installation, these roofs can last twice as long as traditional roofing materials, providing excellent value for money.

2.1 Low Maintenance

One of the significant advantages of M-Tray® green roofs is their low maintenance requirement. The latest advances in green roofing technology ensure plant survival, making these roofs cost-efficient.

3. Noise and Heat Reduction

Green roofs effectively reduce heat and noise. They can withstand intense heat, potentially containing house fires better than conventional roofs. Moreover, studies show that green roofs can reduce external noise by up to 40 decibels, creating a quieter environment in noisy neighbourhoods and near airports.

4. Improved Local Environment

Green roofs can improve the local environment by providing wildlife habitats. They encourage biodiversity by housing a diverse selection of wildflowers and vegetation that attract bees and other wildlife.

4.1 Absorption of CO2 and Other Pollutants

Green roofs play a vital role in absorbing CO2, pollution and particulates from the atmosphere, positively impacting air quality.

4.2 Improved Thermal and Sound Insulation

Green roofs contribute to improved thermal and sound insulation, making the building more energy-efficient and quieter.

4.3 Reduced Rainwater Runoff

Green roofs can reduce the amount and speed of rainwater runoff by about 50%, forming part of a sustainable urban drainage system (SUDS) design.

4.4 Protection of the Structure

Green roofs protect the structure and waterproofing membrane from UV light, heat from the sun, impact and abrasion, environmental elements, and plant and bird infestation.

5. Enhancing Urban Spaces

By transforming flat roofs and podium decks into green roofs, Wallbarn contributes to the greening of urban spaces, significantly increasing nature and improving air quality in our cities. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building but also provides an attractive, useful, and environmentally friendly open space.

6. The M-Tray® System

Wallbarn’s M-Tray® system is a unique modular green roof solution that provides instant, sustainable green roofing while being incredibly easy to install and maintain.

6.1 Mature and Well-Established Plants

The M-Tray® system includes 13 separate species of sedum suitable for the English climate, pre-grown from seeds in their nursery for at least six months. This ensures the plants have time to fully root into the substrate, resulting in mature and well-established plants when transported to the site.

6.2 Biodiversity Promotion

The modules contain a mixture of ground covering and flowering sedum species that provide year-round colour. They are specifically selected to attract pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, and encourage birds and other wildlife onto the urban rooftop environment.

7. Easy Installation

The single-size, self-contained M-Tray® trays can be carried by hand and are clipped together, creating a seamless, instant green roof. This modularity allows for extremely quick installation by contractors without specialist landscaping training. Furthermore, the roof is future-proofed, allowing for easy removal of trays if there’s ever a need to inspect the roof.

8. Wallbarn and Sustainability

Wallbarn is committed to increasing the amount of green spaces on often lost flat roofs and podium decks. Through its activities, the company aims to contribute to the greening of urban spaces, significantly increasing nature and improving air quality in cities.

9. Using Wallbarn Products

When creating a green roof construction project, the products used are crucial. Wallbarn is a leading supplier of high-quality, long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing green roof solutions.

10. How Long Will A Green Roof Last?

Green roofs are expected to last 40-50 years. In many cases, they have lasted much longer. Green roofs in Berlin, Germany, for instance, have shown that they can protect roofs after 100 years, with some roofs installed in 1889 still going strong.

11. Conclusion

Green roofs offer numerous benefits. They can save you money, are more energy efficient and can enhance biodiversity. Wallbarn’s M-Tray® modular green roof system is an excellent choice for those seeking to transform their urban spaces into lush, green, and sustainable areas.