Site analysis
Before designing a green roof, wall or facade it is important to understand the characteristics of the site. The table below outlines what is required in the anlysis of a site for a potential green roof, wall or facade.
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Information to collect during a site analysis |
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Seasonal considerations and climate Expected maximum and minimum temperatures Expected rainfall volume and distribution throughout the year How sun, shade, wind vary on the site throughout the year How the height of the building might influence some climatic factors Forecasts on how the local climate might change over time |
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Local environment Assess any opportunities or risks that nearby vegetation will have on the site – fire threat, weed or pest invasion, biodiversity migration |
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Weight loading Load-bearing capacity Estimated transient loads, particularly wind forces |
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Drainage Storm water discharge points Assessment of whether drainage will be sufficient in the case of severe weather |
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Irrigation Water collection and storage opportunities, opportunities for delivery of irrigation water and for co-locating stored water with other grey water systems in the building |
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Existing structure and size Size of useable roof or wall area Available space for plants to be grown from ground level upwards Any slopes or angles to the roof or wall Quality of existing roof and wall materials |
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Access Access to site for cranes and other machinery, and for storage of materials during construction Access for maintenance and/ or visitors (consider safety such as a parapet on a roof and disability access requirements too) Access to utilities – water, electricity Ensure access for passers-by is not impeded |
