A Complete Guide to Building and Maintaining Green RoofsWritten by an industry expert in green roof design and installation, this GreenSourcebook presents all of the information you need to skillfully design, construct, and maintain green roofs. You will find a wealth of practical details gathered through real-world implementations and independent research.Green Roof Construction and Maintenanceexplains how to design a green roof, plan for irrigation and drainage, select and place soil and plants, and maintain the entire setup. The book also discusses return on investment, LEED design specifications, and the myriad short- and long-term environmental benefits of green roofs. Filled with step-by-step illustrations and full-color photographs, this is a valuable, hands-on guide to a rapidly emerging trend in the sustainability movement. Green Roof Construction and Maintenanceincludes:Key questions to ask at each stage of the green building processTested tips and techniques for successful structural designConstruction methods for new and existing buildingsInformation on insulation, drainage, detailing, irrigation, and plant selection Details on optimal soil formulationIllustrations featuring various stages of constructionBest practices for green roof maintenanceA survey of environmental benefits, including evapo-transpiration, storm-water management, habitat restoration, and improvement of air qualityTips on the LEED design and certification processConsiderations for assessing return on investmentColor photographs of successfully installed green roofsUseful checklists, tables, and charts