Expert Green Roofs in Ashburton, Devon

Living in the South West, we're no strangers to a bit of weather. One day it's glorious sunshine, the next it’s the kind of Devon rain that seems to come at you sideways. A green roof is surprisingly brilliant at handling both. During those heavy downpours we get in Teignbridge, the substrate—that’s the special growing medium we use—acts like a giant sponge. It soaks up the water, slowing down the runoff and taking the pressure off your gutters. This is what we call rainwater attenuation. Then there’s the insulation. Most folks we talk to are shocked at how much cooler their rooms stay in the summer and how much warmth they keep in during a frosty winter on the edge of the Moor. It's like putting a thick, natural duvet over your house.

Not all green roofs are the same, and what you choose depends on what you want to achieve. Most of our local customers go for an 'Extensive' green roof. These usually feature sedum—a hardy little plant that’s tough as old boots and needs very little looking after. It’s perfect for roofs that aren't meant to be walked on but need to look great year-round. If you're looking for something more substantial, like a space you can actually spend time in, we can look at an 'Intensive' system. Think of this as a rooftop garden with deeper soil that can support everything from grasses to small shrubs. We'll even help you design a 'Biodiverse' or brown roof specifically to attract local Devon bees and butterflies. Whatever your vision, we make sure the structure is up to the task before a single plant goes down.

You might be wondering if a roof covered in plants is actually waterproof. It's a fair question! The secret isn't just the plants; it's what's underneath. When we install a living roof in Ashburton, we start with a rock-solid waterproof membrane, followed by a specialised root barrier. This ensures those thirsty roots stay in the substrate and don't go hunting for moisture in your ceiling. One of the best perks is that the vegetation actually protects your roof from the sun's UV rays, which is usually what causes traditional flat roofs to crack and leak over time. By shielding the membrane, a green roof can easily double the lifespan of your roof. It's a bit of a win-win: you're helping the environment and saving yourself the hassle of a roof replacement in ten years' time.

We've been the go-to roofers for the 25-mile radius around Ashburton for years, from the busy streets of Newton Abbot to the quiet lanes of Bovey Tracey. Our team doesn't just 'chuck some soil on a roof.' We handle the whole process properly, starting with a structural assessment to make sure your building can safely hold the extra weight—especially when the plants are soaked with rain. We manage everything from the initial drainage layers to the final planting. We're a local crew who take pride in our work, so we don't leave a mess behind. We’ll show up when we say we will, treat your property with respect, and make sure you’re 100% happy with your new green space before we pack up our tools.