The Metro Central YMCA today opened the green roof, whose plan was announced back in May. The rooftop was initially planned as an outdoor terrace for exercising and lounging but being a flat and hideous stretch of concrete, it hardly came to use. Although the new green roof will take some time to go completely green, nonetheless it is quite an alluring change.
The three designs suggested for the roof by Natvik Ecological incorporated a water feature and a series of planked paths, as well as a large platform area to be used for classes, recreation or events. The organization took suggestion from its 2,500 members and added some more features to the final design. The new features include more seating and trees, in addition to raised edging on the track that would assist the visually challenged.
In order to build the green roof a lot of capital has gone into the construction work as durability of the roof is a major concern. The roof has to be really strong to take up the extra weight and a barrier was laid down to prevent the concrete floor from cracking due to plant roots. As the vegetation is grown on loose-slate based substrate rather than soil, hence special drainage boards are laid below the roof to prevent collection of excess moisture.
As far as the decking is concerned, YMCA has gone with Trex planking, which is a combination of reclaimed sawdust and recycled plastic grocery bags. Placed on the fourth floor of the building, the green roof is rot-resistant and unpainted. It has a three-fountain water feature with attractive stainless steel drainage plates and the track curbs made of recycled rubber. For people who would like to rest in shade, a large platform surrounded by horizontal lattice giving a closed room fell can be a perfect choice. The organizers have made special room for a single solar voltaic panel at the northwest corner. The panel generates enough electricity to power the LED fixtures and the three-fountain water feature.
With this green project, the Metro Central YMCA can hope to be on the list of Toronto’s green roof leaders.