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Don't let roof space go to waste...
In busy urban environments, every square foot of land counts, whether it's a courtyard, front lawn, or unused roof space. In fact, unused roof space presents a unique opportunity for creativity which shouldn't be dismissed.
Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or property manager, transforming your roof into a fully functional space can do wonders for a property. It can improve the quality of inhabitants' lives, help the building to reduce its carbon footprint, and substantially increase the value of the property.
In this article, we'll talk you through some innovative ways to make the most of roof space.
Green Roof
A fully-functioning garden in the sky.
A popular modern use for unused roof space is turning it into a green roof. Like a regular garden, green roofs are covered with vegetation and soil, either partially or completely. The benefits are noticeable, and include insulation, stormwater management, and wildlife habitat creation. They can also improve air quality, which is vital in polluted urban environments.
The benefits of a green roof:
Reducing energy costs: Green roofs can reduce energy costs by providing natural insulation.
Improved air quality: Green roofs have the ability to filter out pollutants and carbon dioxide out of the air.
Providing habitats: With a green roof, you will be contributing to biodiversity, offering a habitat for urban wildlife.
How to create a green roof
Creating a green roof isn't the most simple task. It involves waterproofing the roof, adding a root barrier, and installing a drainage system. You must also make sure that your roof will be able to withstand the weight of the plants. Always consult with a professional before going ahead with the installation.
Looking after a green roof once it has been installed is very much like looking after a regular garden. Depending on what you've planted on your roof, maintaining it won't be labour-intensive.
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Rooftop Allotment
Grown your own produce on your roof.
A common grievance for those living in inner-city areas is the lack of access to super-fresh produce. With a rooftop allotment, you can grow your own fruit and vegetables, giving you access to the freshest produce of the season. They also provide a great area to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Benefits of a rooftop allotment:
Access to fresh produce: There's no produce fresher than organic fruit and veg you've grown yourself.
Saving money: Growing your own produce will result in reduced grocery bills each month.
Relaxing hobby: Planting seeds and picking fruits is a welcome retreat from the busy urban environment below you.
Environmental benefits: Supermarket produce hasn't always had the most environmentally-friendly journey from farm to table. Often imported from other continents, it has racked up considerable air miles before you pick it up off the shelves.
How to create a rooftop allotment
The first step towards a rooftop allotment is to assess your rooftop's structural capacity and sunlight exposure. Then, choose the containers appropriate for what you want to grow, and the right soil to put in them. Think about installing a drip irrigation system to provide your produce with a constant water supply. After planting your seeds, make sure they're regularly watered and growing as they should.
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Rooftop Terrace
For those who enjoy entertaining.
Rooftop terrace culture has swept through UK city culture, with commuters looking for a scenic, yet expensive, last drink before they get the train home. Why pay £20+ for a fancy cocktail when you could enjoy the same thing from your own rooftop?
Benefits of a rooftop terrace:
Ideal entertainment space: Rooftop terraces offer up the ideal scenic space for relaxing with friends.
Improved appeal: If you come to sell your property, a rooftop terrace can drastically improve its value.
Retreat from city life: While they aren't soundproofed, a rooftop terrace will provide a perfect escape from the busy city below.
How to create a rooftop terrace:
The most important part of creating a rooftop terrace is designing its layout and materials you'll use. Choosing the furniture, lighting, and overall vibe of the space is a thoroughly enjoyable part of the project. Consider adding an outdoor bar and seating area for maximum effect.
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Solar Panel Installation
Generate renewable energy and save thousands on your energy bills.
Installing solar panels on unused roof space is not only great for the environment, it will also save you thousands on your energy bills. No matter the weather, solar panels will continue to generate electricity to power your home, reducing your reliance on the grid. Paired with a solar battery, you can become entirely self-sufficient.
The benefits of a solar panel installation:
Money saving: Your solar panels will generate your home's electricity from the sun, meaning it will be totally free. This will save you tens of thousands of pounds on energy bills across the panels' lifespan.
Money generating: With the UK Government's Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme, you can sell excess electricity you generate back to the grid for financial reward.
Environmentally friendly: Solar power is 100% carbon free, which will lower your emissions and help the planet.
Increased property value: A residential solar panel installation will increase the value of your home if you come to sell it.
How to install solar panels:
Choosing the right solar panel installer is vital. A reputable company will take charge of the entire process, from sourcing panels to mounting and connecting them to your electricity supply. They will also handle any government grants and incentives available to you, saving you money on installation fees.
The main thing to think about is the size of your roof and the solar panel dimensions. Once again, the installer will come up with a detailed plan to maximise your solar electricity generation and efficiency of your system.
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Trust EPC to make the most of your roof space
At EPC, our MCS Certified installers know exactly how to utilise roof space for maximum solar electricity output. Whether you've got a small roof or a large space to play with, we'll design a bespoke system that fits your needs and budget.
We've been helping homes and businesses around Essex and the South East switch to renewable energy for over 15 years, with thousands of happy customers to show for it.
So, contact us today to see how we can help you go green and save a fortune on electricity bills.