Can You Install a Green Roof on a Shed, Garage, or Extension?
If you’ve ever wondered whether you can add a green roof shed, green roof bin store, or even a green roof for house extension, the answer is: yes, you can — provided a few design principles are followed.
In this guide, we’ll explore what type of green roof design is suitable for small structures, what conditions need to be met, and how our green roof sedum trays make it simple to transform any surface into a living, breathing space.
What Type of Green Roof Works Best?
Green roofs come in three main types — intensive, semi-intensive, and extensive. The difference comes down to the depth of the growing medium (the soil layer):
Intensive Green Roofs – up to 1m depth. Supports trees, shrubs, and a wide variety of green roof plants. Usually requires reinforced structures.
Semi-Intensive Green Roofs – up to 300mm depth. Great for wildflowers and perennials. Medium weight and maintenance.
Extensive Green Roofs – up to 150mm depth. Lightweight, low-maintenance, and ideal for smaller structures like garages, sheds, and extensions.
For most homeowners, an extensive green roof UK system is the most practical choice. It’s light enough for smaller buildings, easy to install, and delivers key green roof benefits without the high green roof cost or heavy maintenance.
5 Key Things Your Roof Needs
Whether it’s a green roof shed, garage, or extension, the following criteria need to be met for a successful green roof installation:
1. Roof Pitch
Our green roof trays can be installed on any green roof flat roof with a pitch up to 25°. Beyond this, water won’t distribute evenly, and plants at the top may dry out while those at the bottom get too wet. For steeper roofs, an irrigation system may be required.
2. Load-Bearing Capacity
A green roof build up adds weight. Our system weighs approx. 55kg/m² when saturated, but during maintenance the structure must support around 120kg/m² (including human access). Always consult a structural engineer before starting green roof construction on sheds, garages, or extensions.
3. Sunlight Exposure
Sedums and other green roof plants thrive in sunlight. Ideally, a green roof installation should be south-facing with several hours of sun per day. For green roof sheds tucked under trees, or extensions shaded by nearby buildings, make sure there’s enough light for healthy growth.
4. Drainage & Waterproofing
A slope of at least 2–3° and a good green roof drainage system are essential. For smaller projects (like a green roof bin store or green roof bike shed), a simple pond liner may be enough. For larger extensions, consider more robust options. Our green roof sedum trays include integrated drainage to ensure plants stay healthy.
5. Maintenance & Access
Green roof DIY projects or professional installations both need occasional upkeep. Plan for safe access at least twice a year for inspections, and water during summer heatwaves.
Why Choose a Green Roof for Small Buildings?
Adding a green roof shed, garage, or extension offers far more than just visual appeal. Here are the key green roof advantages:
Natural insulation → keeps interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Biodiversity boost → provides habitat for pollinators with varied green roof plants.
Stormwater management → reduces run-off thanks to the green roof drainage layer.
Roof protection → extends lifespan by shielding against UV and weather.
Aesthetic upgrade → turns dull rooftops into vibrant living features.
Final Thoughts
So, can you install a green roof on a garage, shed, or extension? Yes — absolutely. With the right structure, waterproofing, and sunlight, our green roof sedum trays make it simple to green any small building.
Whether you’re interested in a green roof kit for DIY projects or want professional green roof installation through an experienced green roof company such as Sedum Green Roof, the benefits are clear: a cooler, greener, and more sustainable space.
Ready to start your project? Contact us today for expert advice on your next green roof UK project.
