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Architecture vocabulary · Sustainability and Environment

Green roof

Meaning in architecture, with examples

nounCommon term

In architecture, green roof means: A roof covered with soil and plants over a waterproof layer, which slows rainwater run-off, adds insulation, supports wildlife and cools the surroundings.

In Turkish: yeşil çatı, bitkili çatı

How it is used

Common in sustainable and urban projects. An extensive green roof has a thin layer of soil and low plants such as sedum; an intensive green roof is deeper and can hold shrubs and trees like a garden. The structure must be designed for the extra weight.

Example sentences

  1. The green roof will slow down rainwater run-off from the site.

  2. We specified an extensive green roof because the structure can't take much extra load.

Common collocations

  • extensive green roof
  • intensive green roof
  • green roof system
  • install a green roof
  • roofThe top covering of a building that protects it from rain, sun and cold; it can be flat, pitched (sloping) or curved.
  • sustainable designDesigning buildings to use less energy, water and materials, to reduce carbon emissions and waste, and to provide healthy places for people over their whole life.
  • thermal insulationMaterial such as mineral wool, polystyrene or wood fibre placed in walls, roofs and floors to slow down heat passing into or out of a building.
  • passive designDesign that keeps a building comfortable using the sun, wind, shade and the building's own form and materials, so it needs little mechanical heating, cooling or lighting.

More terms: Sustainability and Environment

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