"better safe than sorry when it comes to potential indoor waterfalls, lol."
Haha, exactly...seen a few of those unintended indoor water features myself. For anyone considering green roofs, it's usually best to loop in your insurer from the start. Here's what I've learned: first, get clear specs from your roofer about waterproofing layers and drainage systems. Next, run those details by your insurer and ask about any specific requirements or exclusions. Finally, document everything—photos, materials used, installation records. Makes life way easier if anything does go sideways later on.
Haha, indoor waterfalls...been there, done that, got the soaked carpet to prove it. Sounds like you really did your homework—smart move getting the insurer involved early. Did you find insurers were generally cool with green roofs, or did you have to jump through extra hoops? I briefly considered one, but chickened out after imagining my DIY skills turning it into a rooftop swamp... Glad yours worked out better!
I feel your pain with the indoor waterfall situation... my first roofing attempt turned into a similar disaster. Thought I'd save a few bucks by DIYing a small porch roof, and let's just say the tarp stayed up way longer than planned. Lesson learned: sometimes paying more upfront saves you from drowning in regret (and soggy drywall).
About green roofs though—I'm curious too. I've heard mixed stories about insurers. Some seem pretty open-minded, especially if they're into sustainability branding, but others treat it like you're building a spaceship on your house. Maybe it depends on your area or how common green roofs are there? Personally, I'd love to see more of them around, but I totally get that hesitation. Imagining myself trying to maintain one properly... yeah, swamp city for sure. But hey, maybe the pros really do know something we DIYers don't.
"Maybe it depends on your area or how common green roofs are there?"
Yeah, location definitely matters. My neighbor installed a green roof last year, and his insurer didn't bat an eye—probably because our city's been pushing sustainability initiatives lately. Maintenance-wise, he says it's not as swampy as you'd think if you get the drainage right from the start. Still, after my own DIY roofing fiasco, I'd probably leave that one to the pros...
You're right about drainage being key, but have you thought about the structural load factor? Green roofs can get pretty heavy, especially after rain or snow. I've run into situations where homeowners had to reinforce their roof framing to handle the extra weight—can get pricey fast if it's overlooked initially. City incentives are great, but did your neighbor mention anything about structural assessments beforehand? Might be worth double-checking before others jump on board...
