That’s interesting, because I’ve actually seen root issues crop up even with “safe” species, especially when the substrate is on the thinner side or drainage isn’t quite right. I’m in a wetter climate, so maybe that’s a factor, but I’ve inspected a few roofs where roots found their way into seams or drainage layers after just a couple years. Makes me wonder if it’s less about the plant choice and more about how well the layers are sealed and how water moves through the system.
Have you noticed any shifting or settling in your substrate over time? Sometimes folks don’t realize how much compaction can change things, especially after a couple of winters. I’m always curious if people are checking for early signs of leaks or root intrusion, or just waiting until there’s a visible issue. Maybe the “riskier” species aren’t really the problem—it’s just that some setups are more forgiving than others.
Funny timing—just last fall I checked out a green roof where the “safe” sedums had gone rogue and were poking roots right into the seams. I swear, roots are sneakier than raccoons sometimes. I’ve seen settling too, especially after a rough winter. You’d think a couple inches wouldn’t matter, but it really changes the water flow. I’m with you, it’s less about the plants and more about how well everything’s sealed and layered. Some setups just handle the abuse better, I guess.
Roots are wild, right? I’ve seen sedums do things you wouldn’t believe—one job, they actually managed to lift a seam just enough for water to sneak in. It’s like they’re plotting against us. I get what you mean about settling too. Even a little dip can send water where you don’t want it, especially after a freeze-thaw cycle. Around here (I’m in the Midwest), we get those brutal winters and then everything shifts come spring. Suddenly, that “perfectly flat” roof isn’t so flat anymore.
I’ve always wondered if some of these green roof systems are overcomplicating things. Like, the plants are cool and all, but if the waterproofing isn’t bulletproof, it’s just asking for trouble. Have you ever tried one of those root barriers that’s supposed to stop everything? I used one once—felt like overkill at the time, but maybe not after seeing what sedum can do.
Funny thing about layering: I’ve seen folks skimp on drainage mats or go cheap on the membrane, thinking the plants will “hold everything together.” Never works out long-term. The best setups I’ve seen are the ones where someone obsessed over every layer, even if it cost more up front.
Curious—do you think there’s a plant combo that actually helps with settling? Or is it just wishful thinking? Sometimes I feel like no matter what you plant, nature finds a way to mess with your plans... kind of like raccoons in your attic.
And speaking of weird origins—Tamko starting in a chicken coop? That’s a new one for me. Makes me wonder if we’re all just winging it sometimes (pun intended).
I’ve seen sedum roots push through spots you’d swear were sealed tight—one job in particular, the stuff found a pinhole and turned it into a real headache after a rough winter. I’m with you: if the waterproofing isn’t top notch, no plant combo’s gonna save you. Tried those heavy-duty root barriers a couple times, and honestly, they felt like overkill until I saw what happens without them. As for plants helping with settling, I haven’t seen much evidence. Around here, it’s more about the layers and how obsessive you are with prep. Nature always finds a way to surprise you.
Nature always finds a way to surprise you.
Ain’t that the truth? I’ve had sedum sneak through spots I thought were locked down tight, too. Ever tried patching a “sealed” seam in February? Not my favorite memory. I’m curious—when you used those root barriers, did you notice any issues with drainage or did it just add peace of mind? Sometimes I wonder if I’m being too cautious, but then again, one leak and you’re chasing water for weeks. Layers and prep seem to matter way more than plant choice, at least in my experience. Anyone else ever feel like you’re just trying to outsmart Mother Nature and she’s always one step ahead?
