Blue roofs are a sustainable stormwater management system designed to control and manage rainwater runoff on building rooftops. These systems are especially important for inner cities in the UK where urbanisation has led to increased impervious surfaces and stormwater management challenges.
Application
Blue roofs are essentially designed to store and attenuate rainwater temporarily before it is released into drainage systems or allowed to slowly infiltrate into the ground. Unlike traditional roofs that quickly shed rainwater into gutters and storm sewers, blue roofs incorporate various components to control the flow of water, including:
Storage Units: These are designed to hold rainwater temporarily. They can be above or below ground and are equipped with mechanisms to control the rate of discharge.
Control Systems: Blue roofs often use flow control orifices, valves, and sensors to manage the release of stored water, allowing it to be gradually discharged during or after a rainfall event.
The benefits
Stormwater Management: Inner cities are particularly vulnerable to flooding due to their high population density and extensive impervious surfaces. Blue roofs help manage stormwater by reducing peak flows, thereby preventing flooding and minimizing the strain on drainage systems.
Reduced Urban Flooding: The UK has seen an increase in urban flooding due to more intense and frequent rain events linked to climate change. Blue roofs can significantly reduce the risk of flooding by temporarily storing rainwater and releasing it slowly, allowing drainage systems to cope with the excess water.
Preservation of Water Resources: By temporarily storing and reusing rainwater, blue roofs contribute to water conservation. This is especially valuable in regions with water scarcity or when cities aim to reduce their reliance on centralized water supplies.
Mitigation of the Urban Heat Island Effect: Blue roofs can contain green or reflective materials that help reduce the urban heat island effect, which is particularly problematic in inner cities. By moderating rooftop temperatures, they contribute to a more comfortable urban environment.
Promotion of Sustainable Development: Blue roofs align with sustainability goals and promote environmentally friendly development practices. Many cities in the UK are encouraging sustainable building design and the utilization of green and blue infrastructure to create more resilient, eco-friendly urban spaces.
Compliance with Regulations: In some UK cities, regulations now require developers to implement sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) to manage rainwater effectively. Blue roofs can be a key component of these systems, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
The service
Working with our sister company Tremco and specialist partners we can offer a holistic solution to blue roofs. Our service covers:
The solution