A Living System Requires Lasting Attention

Vegetated roofs are more than a beautiful addition to a building—they’re living, breathing systems that contribute to sustainability, stormwater management, insulation, and even occupant well-being. But like any living landscape, they require ongoing maintenance to perform at their best.

In this guide, we break down what it takes to care for your green roof over the long haul—seasonal checklists, common maintenance tasks, and specific considerations when working with Barrett Greenroof-Roofscapes® systems.

Why Green Roof Maintenance Matters

A well-maintained vegetated roof:

• Extends the lifespan of the waterproofing membrane
• Protects against drainage blockages and overgrowth
• Prevents wind uplift and plant loss
• Maintains appearance and ecological function
• Ensures continued compliance with stormwater and energy codes

Barrett’s Greenroof-Roofscapes® systems are built for durability and performance, but even the best assemblies benefit from a thoughtful, proactive care plan.

General Maintenance Checklist

Whether your roof is intensive or extensive, this core checklist applies year-round:

✅ Remove weeds and invasive species
✅ Inspect and clear drains and scuppers
✅ Check for signs of erosion or plant die-off
✅ Replace or replant damaged vegetation
✅ Remove debris and litter
✅ Check irrigation systems (if applicable)
✅ Inspect waterproofing access points and flashings

Seasonal Maintenance Reminders

Each season brings new needs. Here’s a breakdown of what to focus on throughout the year:

Spring

• Inspect for winter damage and replant bare patches
• Test irrigation system functionality
• Fertilize if recommended for plant types
• Check for freeze-thaw membrane issues

Summer

• Monitor for drought stress and adjust watering
• Control weeds before they spread
• Prune overgrowth
• Watch for insect or pest damage

Fall

• Remove fallen leaves and organic debris
• Conduct the final weeding before dormancy
• Inspect drainage pathways ahead of winter
• Prepare irrigation systems for shutoff or winterization

Winter

• Minimize foot traffic during freezing conditions
• Inspect for ice dams or heavy snow load
• Monitor plant dormancy for abnormalities
• Check membrane edges and flashings after storms

Barrett-Specific Maintenance Considerations

Barrett’s waterproofing and green roof systems are engineered for performance, but their longevity depends on keeping protective layers undisturbed and functional:

• RamTough 250® and other fluid-applied membranes should be visually inspected at any accessible edge transitions or penetrations annually.
• Ensure that root barriers remain intact and are not breached by aggressive species.
• For modular systems like Roofscapes®, inspect module alignment and check for edge separation or uplift.
• If a Barrett drainage layer is used, never allow silt, sediment, or debris to clog the geocomposite drainage core.

Barrett offers long-term system warranties when maintenance is performed in accordance with recommendations—keeping documentation of inspections and repairs is key for preserving coverage.

A Partner in Performance

From the initial design of your vegetated roof to its long-term care, The Barrett Company is committed to supporting the entire lifecycle of your system. Our assemblies are built for the rigors of the real world, but it’s the attention to detail in maintenance that helps them thrive for decades to come.

Need help evaluating or maintaining your green roof? Contact Barrett for system-specific guidance or to connect with certified installers and maintenance professionals.