Wal-Mart Store #5402 

Roofmeadow® Type I: Roofrug®

Newly planted Roofrug® by Enviroscape. Note paver paths and multiple skylights

Irrigation: None

Size: 74,000 sf 

Client: Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Location: Chicago, IL 

Design and Construction Administration:  Roofscapes, Inc.

Roofscapes, Inc. Installer:  Enviroscape

Architect:  BSW International

Status: Completed Fall 2006 

Distinguishing Features

The Roofrug® is four-inches thick and has a maximum weight, when saturated, of 20 pounds per square foot. The plant cover consists primarly of flowering succulent plants called Sedum. A unique feature of the Roofrug® is the incorporation of a one-inch thick foundation layer that is, at once: (1) a protection layer, (2) a drainage layer, and (3) a root supporting structure. This mat is manufactured entirely from recycled post-consumer products, most notably athletic shoes. The layout includes paved walkways to access roof top utility units.

Plant establishment was from Sedum cuttings and seed. Depending on weather conditions, the roof should take between 12 to 18 months to produce a dense and uniform foliage cover. During this time ti will be maintained by a Roofscapes, Inc. Network company.

Improvements in the rate and volume of runoff were apparent as soon as the green roof was installed. A dramatic decrease in the temperature of the "greened" roof was also observed.

The Roofrug® green roof is designed to be compatible with electric methods of leak detection. Due to its thin profile and its unique foundation mat, it is very easy to remove portions of the cover to examine the underlying roofing materials, should this become necessary.