Green roofs are a growing trend in Finland — and for good reason. A roof covered with vegetation improves a building's energy efficiency, manages stormwater, and significantly extends the lifespan of the roof's waterproofing. A green roof is an investment that pays for itself.
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Technical Specifications
30–50 years
80–150 kg/m²
2 year interval
70–120 €/m²
10 years
2°
High — recyclable
Suitability
Why choose a green roof?
A green roof offers several advantages over traditional roofing materials. It cools the building in summer and insulates in winter, reducing energy consumption. The vegetation protects the waterproofing from UV radiation and mechanical stress, extending the roof's lifespan. In addition, a green roof captures particulates and produces oxygen.
Types of green roofs
Green roofs are divided into two main types: extensive (lightweight) and intensive. An extensive green roof is thin (6–15 cm growing substrate) and uses sedum and meadow plants. It is lightweight and requires very little maintenance. An intensive green roof is thicker (15–100 cm) and can include lawn, shrubs, and even trees.
| Feature | ExtensiveRecommended | Intensive |
|---|---|---|
| Growing substrate | 6–15 cm | 15–100 cm |
| Weight | 60–150 kg/m² | 150–500 kg/m² |
| Price | 80–150 €/m² | 150–300 €/m² |
| Vegetation | Sedum, mosses | Lawn, shrubs, trees |
| Maintenance | Minimal (1–2 times/year) | Regular (like a garden) |
| Roof pitch | 0–30° | 0–5° (flat roofs) |
Green roof price
The price of an extensive green roof is typically 80–150 €/m² and an intensive one 150–300 €/m². The price includes waterproofing, root barrier, drainage layer, growing substrate, and vegetation. Although the initial investment is larger than with a traditional roof, the longer lifespan and energy savings make it cost-effective in the long run.
Green roofs in Finnish conditions
Finland's climate is well-suited to green roofs. Sedum and meadow vegetation withstand frost, drought, and snow loads. In winter, the snow cover acts as additional insulation. In spring, the vegetation revives naturally. Green roofs require careful waterproofing and root protection, but when properly installed, they last for decades.
Green roof maintenance
An extensive green roof requires little maintenance — 1–2 inspection visits per year are sufficient. During inspection, drainage function is verified, unwanted plants are removed, and vegetation is supplemented as needed. An intensive green roof requires regular garden maintenance.
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Content reviewed and verified
Updated: April 2026
