Interesting you mention attic temps—I've been tracking that too, since we started experimenting with a small sedum patch on one of our flat roofs. Honestly, I expected a bigger difference, but so far the temp drop has only been a couple degrees on the hottest days. Humidity’s trickier to gauge, though. We’ve got decent ventilation, so maybe that’s why I haven’t noticed much change there.
I’m still a bit skeptical about how much a green roof can really help with insulation unless you go all-in with a thicker substrate. The “all-in-one” systems seem convenient, but I worry about long-term drainage and root intrusion. Have you run into any issues with water pooling or leaks around your test patch? That’s my main concern—especially in spring when we get those heavy Midwest rains. I keep wondering if the extra weight and moisture could end up causing more problems than it solves, especially on older structures.
I’ve had the same concerns with weight and drainage, especially since my place is pushing 60 years old. I tried a DIY sedum tray setup last summer—honestly, no leaks so far, but I did notice some pooling after a heavy storm. Ended up adding a couple cheap drainage mats from the hardware store, which helped a bit. Still not sure I’d risk a full green roof without beefing up the structure first. Those “all-in-one” kits look easy, but I’m not convinced they’re built for Midwest downpours.
Still not sure I’d risk a full green roof without beefing up the structure first. Those “all-in-one” kits look easy, but I’m not convinced they’re built for Midwest downpours.
Totally hear you on the Midwest storms. My neighbor went all-in with one of those kits and ended up with water stains creeping in after our big July rain last year. I’ve always stuck to clearing the roof myself—old house nerves, maybe—but I take it slow and do a quick check for soft spots every time. Not glamorous, but it’s kept surprises to a minimum. I don’t fully trust those kits either unless you really know what’s under your shingles.
- Honestly, I get the hesitation with those kits, but I’ve seen a couple newer builds in my area (central IL) use them and hold up fine. Maybe it’s more about the prep work than the kit itself?
- My place is only 10 years old, so maybe I’m less paranoid, but I did try one of the modular green roof trays on my garage. No leaks yet, even after last spring’s crazy hail. Could be luck, could be the slope.
- I do worry about weight though. The “all-in-one” stuff says it’s lightweight, but once it’s soaked after a week of rain? Not sure I buy that.
- DIY roof clearing makes me nervous—slippery shingles freak me out. I’d rather pay someone with the right gear than risk a fall, even if it costs more.
- Guess it depends on how much you trust your roof’s bones. If you’re not sure what’s under there, maybe better safe than sorry... but I wouldn’t write off every kit just because of a few horror stories.
I get the weight concern—those “lightweight” claims always make me raise an eyebrow, especially after a week of Midwest rain. My neighbor’s green roof trays did fine through a gnarly storm, but his garage has a pretty steep pitch and newer joists. I’m with you on the DIY roof clearing, though. I tried it once and nearly slid off—never again. Sometimes paying for peace of mind is worth it, especially if you’re not sure what’s under your shingles.