Advantages, limitations and current trends in green roofs development. A review

The green roof systems (GRS) seek to meet the environment and energy efficiency requirements in buildings, where inadequate performance is provided by the conventional roof systems. Some types of green roof have been commercially launched, but challenges, such as high initial cost, complex maintenance, and application limitations, prevent their widespread use. Most of these challenges can be overcome, but no GRS are likely to overcome all of them at once. This research reviews the advantages and disadvantages of green roofs and discusses the challenges associated with their utilization within buildings. The main consumer properties of green roofs have been systematized. The research makes the capabilities and limitations of the different GRS clearer for both architects and users, and discusses the challenges and promises facing developers and designers.