In response to your story, “Insurers warn of fire risk from green roofs” (5 August, page 12), there is little, if any, evidence to suggest that green roofs significantly increase the risk of fire.
On the contrary, it can be argued that, in the case of properly installed green roofs that include simple techniques such as fire breaks and the latest generation of fire retardant waterproofing, the risk of fire from roof vegetation is actually less than the risk of fire from the vegetation that surrounds the base of the building.
There is already strong evidence from European manufacturers that suggests green roofs can actually slow the spread of fire through the roof. With correct installation and choice of materials, the risk is further lessened.
Contrary to Mr Blackie’s assumption that “the issue of fire spread, combustibility and fire safety is overlooked”, the reality is that there are manufacturers, designers and installers who understand very well that fire safety is paramount.
There is already strong evidence from Europe that suggests that green roofs can actually slow the spread of fire
Tim Wood
Nobody can deny that vegetation presents a fire risk, but unlike California, the UK does not see many brush fires, just as we do not see green roof fires. But even this minimal risk can be effectively addressed by careful planning and the correct choice of materials.
Green roofs are an important sustainable technology that delivers many environmental and social benefits and has virtually no negatives. It would be a tragedy if this technology were jeopardised by the insurance industry.
Tim Wood, Permanite Engineered Roofing Systems
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