What Is The UK Green Roof Code?

If you are considering putting on a green roof for your home or business, you might be asking yourself what the UK Green Roof Code is. The answer is that the UK has its own set of standards for green roofing and they are facilitated by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC).

GRO Code – a body facilitated by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors

The GRO Code is a body of work facilitated by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors. This organisation champions the highest standards in business and workmanship. They also publish a series of technical bulletins.

The code is a joint venture between Groundwork Sheffield and the Green Roof Centre. It lays down the best practices for green roof systems, both the construction and maintenance. These efforts have been aided by some of the industry’s heavy hitters.

As you may know, the GRO is not the first organization to provide a green roof code of good practice. In early 2009, the UK’s leading green roof provider was already on the case, working with the Green Roof Centre to produce the first incarnation.

The GRO Code is only the latest in a long line of best practice guides. Having surveyed industry players for their input, the GRO’s team came up with a set of guidelines and an accompanying manual.

NFRC facilitates the GRO Code

The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) has been instrumental in facilitating the UK’s green roof code. The code is a collaboration of several industry players including the likes of Groundwork Sheffield, Green Roof Centre, and the Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA). It was aptly named, as it is the first time a roofing trade association has taken a leading role in a major green infrastructure project.

Although a bit more than a year old, the GRO code is a significant achievement in itself. Aside from being a useful tool for the construction industry, it also provides an opportunity to showcase the sexiest and most functional green infrastructure technologies available.

In particular, the code was designed to showcase the most significant advances in green roof technology. With the reintroduction of the Building Regulations in April 2012, a new generation of green roof products will be unveiled. As the construction industry grows, so will its focus on sustainable solutions.

UK-specific Code for Green Roofs

Green roofs have become more prevalent in the UK and other countries around the world. Their benefits include reducing urban heat island effect, improving thermal performance, conserving biodiversity and conserving urban green spaces in the face of urbanisation.

The GRO is an industry association of stakeholders who develop best practice guidance and standards for green roofs. In addition, the group has produced the UK-specific Code for Green Roofs. This code will help anyone who is installing, maintaining or designing a green roof.

The Code provides a comprehensive overview of the different types of green roof and a comprehensive guide for specification and design. As well as covering the installation of green roofs, the Code provides guidance on waterproofing, maintenance and inspection.

The Code reflects the growing movement for green roofs in the UK. It is based on the German Code of Practice known as FLL. These documents have been developed through a participatory process.

There is also a requirement for secondary roof drainage. It is important to locate this drainage above landscaping. If it is to be located below landscaping, ballasting aggregates or paving slabs should be used.