Ultra-Extensive and Extensive

Lightweight, Low‑Maintenance Green Roofs, Built for Incentives

Extensive and ultra-extensive green roofs offer a smart, cost-effective solution for buildings seeking performance-driven sustainability. Designed for low maintenance and tailored to meet regulatory, incentive, or environmental goals, these systems deliver maximum value with minimal upkeep, minimal capital cost, and fast installations. Whether you’re aiming to manage stormwater, earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) credits, or enhance energy efficiency, extensive green roofs are the workhorse of the industry, are highly functional, and provide a reliable and attractive path forward.

Our shallowest green roofs are available in two configurations—ultra-extensive and extensive—primarily distinguished by their weight (depth), and to some extent their maintenance requirements. Ultra-extensive systems are only 10–15 lb/sf, allowing for maximum compatibility with new and existing buildings, and use hardy, self-sustaining plant species. The ultra-shallow soil profile, however, may require more frequent watering or consideration for permanent irrigation depending on location. Extensive systems are heavier, 26–30 lb/sf, and are the standard depth and weight for most functional and incentive or regulatory compliant installations. In most climates, irrigation is not required, and maintenance is minimal.  Both options are ideal for visible and non-visible rooftops where performance and value are the most important criteria.

  • Standard 2 ft x 2 ft x 4 in. or 2.75 in. modules, compatible with all other depths in mixed-depth applications.
  • Compatible with standard accessories including hardscape, edging, mineral wool stormwater storage layers, and tray inserts to create internal void space for stormwater storage.
  • Designed for low maintenance and affordability.
  • Thrive in most climates with minimal care (occasional weeding, annual fertilizing, and extra watering during dry spells).
  • Tailored to meet specific performance goals using 2.75-in. or 4-in. modules.
  • Lowest costs per square foot for materials, installation, and maintenance.
  • Require minimal structural capacity (approximately 30 lbs/sf for 4-in. modules; 15 lbs/sf for 2.75-in. modules).
  • Use a proven palette of drought-tolerant succulents.
  • Lightweight, pre-grown, and easy to install and maintain assemblies.
  • Often cover large roof areas.
  • Deliver maximum benefits at low costs.
  • Meet performance, regulatory, or incentive requirements.
  • Enhance building’s appearance, energy efficiency, and environmental impact.
  • Support on-site stormwater management.
  • Contribute to energy conservation through active cooling during summer months and thermal mass during winter months.
  • Help meet code or local ordinance requirements for green roof coverage.
  • Enable eligibility for incentive programs and tax credits.
  • Contribute to local sustainability requirements.
  • Support LEED® credit compliance.
  • Extend the lifespan of the roof.
Ultra-Extensive and Extensive Product Details
Shallow Depth Modules – 2.75-in. and 4-in.
Module Size 2 ft x 2 ft x 4 in., 2 ft x 2 ft x 2.75 in.
Weight Approximately 10–15 lb/sf for 2.75-in. and 26–30 lb/sf for 4-in. fully vegetated at maximum water-holding capacity.
Uses Intended for functional and/or designed vegetative green roof applications. Excellent tool for managing stormwater and integrating into new or existing buildings.
Plants Succulent groundcovers, typically sedum, and water-conserving accent plants.
Semi-Intensive
Accessory Compatibility
Compatible
Maintenance Level
Watering Trowel
Stormwater Capacity
Rain Rain
Aesthetic Complexity
Medium
Plant Diversity
Flowers Plant
Investment Level
Cost Cost
Intensive
Accessory Compatibility
Compatible
Maintenance Level
Watering Trowel Pruning
Stormwater Capacity
Rain Rain Rain
Aesthetic Complexity
Complex
Plant Diversity
Flowers Plant Grass
Investment Level
Cost Cost Cost
Functional Green Roofs provide the owner with the highest benefit-to-cost ratio, with minimal structural impact and low maintenance requirements.

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