TECHNOLOGYThe modular nature of our designs helps reduce costs and simplify construction. Many different building systems could be used, but we are using Structural Insulated Panels known as SIPs. The big advantages of SIPs are:
Costs are reduced and efficiency increased because much of the material handling and construction is done out of the weather at the fabricators. Once the components are delivered, the basic waterproof structure can be erected in a matter of days. The windows and doors can be installed, the cladding and green roofing added then the inside can be fitted out. We are currently importing SIPs panels from the US where we have an existing working relationship with a manufacturer resulting from our project with the Swinomish Tribal Nation. THE GREEN BITThe high level of insulation and the airtight nature of SIPs structures make them very energy efficient. The living roof minimises the ecological footprint, reduces rainwater run-off and provides a safe habitat for insects and birds. If you are building in an area prone to fires then using a succulent sedum can be excellent protection. A LANDHOUSE can be made as green as you want. The basic structure is very well insulated and its green credentials can be improved with ground source energy, heat exchangers, solar panels and any number of green options. THE TECHNICAL BITOur 1,400 square foot Swinomish layout proved very energy efficient when we ran it through the EcoTope computer modelling software, and some of the results influenced the final design and specification. Link to the EcoTope Report. Interestingly the green roof, rather than adding insulation, has a slight cooling effect in hot weather and absorbs the rain and sun which prolongs the life of the roofing material. Underneath the green roof is a certified waterproof membrane, designed and tested specifically for this type of application, which conforms to the German FLL standard - the toughest waterproofing test in Europe. A typical extensive warm roof construction (from the bottom up) consists of: A structural layer, a vapour control layer, thermal insulation, waterproof membrane, a growing medium and finally the planting. There are many different options for the roof, but the green layer is most often sedum based and can be pre-grown on special matting which is matured off-site, rolled up, then unrolled onto the substrate to create an instant green roof. In Germany, they have installed more than 80 million square metres of green roof which continues to do an excellent and sustainable job. Some useful web sites... The computer modelling company we used A couple of web sites about green roofing Some companies that specialise in the green layer of green roofing www.evergreenroofgardens.co.uk Sarnafil & Bauder make the roofing products that go under a green roof |
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