Monday, January 9, 2012

Introduction

Larger commercial buildings often employ low-slope (almost flat) roofs. The low slope of the roof allows the roof to be used to support equipment and may also provide an area for human use. Recently “green roofs” on which plants are grown have become popular. In this activity you will discover what accommodations are necessary in order to make a low-slope roof acceptable for human traffic and for use as a green roof.

Procedure

1.    Select a low slope roof treatment for the upper roof of the Keystone project and incorporate your choice into your 3D architectural model.  Do not include structural support of the roof at this time.

2.    Research low-slope roof treatments and walking surfaces that would allow human traffic. In your engineering notebook document three products that could be used as a walking surface on the green roof planned for the lower roof of the Keystone Library. Include sketches or images of each product. Show it to Mr. Torwelle before you move on.

3.    Research green roofs and document at least two green roof systems that could be used on the lower roof of the Keystone Library. Select a green roof system for use on the Keystone Library Renovation. In your engineering notebook document your selection with a sketch or image of a cross section or of the selected system and label each required layer. Justify your choice. Show it to Mr. Torwelle before you move on.

4.    Model the green roof system in your 3D architectural software. Do not include structural support of the roof at this time.

5.    Create a detail (section) view of the green roof in your 3D architectural software.

Conclusion Questions to answer in your blog.

1.    Why are flat roofs common on larger commercial buildings?

They are more practical compared to peaked roofs because commercial buildings can be very large. They can be also be built very quickly and easily.

2.    Why are the standard pitched roof treatments not acceptable for a low-slope roof?

The low slope roof needs different drains to direct the water away from the building and need more water proofing because of their low slope.

3.    Why are the typical low-slope roof surfaces not appropriate when public access is planned?

Some low slope roofs have a coating that may not be appropriate for walking on, such as foam.

4.     What factors are important to consider when designing a green roof?

The weight of all of the soil on the roof, water proofing so the moisture in the soil doesn't go into the building, maintenance of the plants and the roof itself, and the plants you want to put on the roof.

5.    What advantages do green roofs provide over standard low-slope roof treatments?
They are more aesthetically pleasing and eco friendly