Looking for a green roof in London installed by a team who actually know what they’re doing? You’ve found us! Sure Roofing Streatham has been transforming ordinary rooftops into living, breathing ecosystems across the capital for over a decade. We’re not just another roofing company – we’re specialists who understand that your rooftop isn’t just protection from the elements, it’s an opportunity to create something extraordinary.
Think of us as the gardeners who work at height! While other contractors might see a flat roofs surface and think “job done,” we see potential for a biodiverse installation that could slash your energy bills, manage stormwater runoff, and create a wildlife haven right above your head.
From extensive sedum systems on commercial buildings in Canary Wharf to intensive rooftop gardens on residential properties in Richmond, we’ve seen firsthand how the right green roof system can completely transform both buildings and lives.
Streatham-based but serving London and the South East in our reach, we’ve built our reputation on delivering waterproof membrane installations that last, substrate systems that thrive, and maintenance services that keep your investment flourishing year after year. Whether you’re an architect planning the next sustainable development or a homeowner wanting to do your bit for local biodiversity, we’re the certified specialists who’ll make your dreams a reality.
Ever wondered why some installations flourish while others fail within the first year? It’s all about expertise, and frankly, there’s a world of difference between a general contractor who’s “had a go” at living roofs and accredited specialists like us who live and breathe this technology.
We’re not cowboys in hard hats – we’re certified professionals with the credentials to prove it. Our team holds GRO Code guidance certification and works to European Norm standards, which means every drainage layer, root barrier, and growing medium we install meets the highest standards. When you’re investing thousands in a living roof system, wouldn’t you want contractors who actually understand the science behind leaf area density and thermal resistance?
Here’s what sets Sure Roofing Streatham apart from the competition as the UK’s leading independent green roof company:
But here’s the real kicker – we don’t just install and disappear. Think of us as your rooftop guardians. Our installation and maintenance services include seasonal health checks, substrate top-ups, water flow clearance, and vegetation management. Because what good is a biodiverse habitat if it turns into a brown wasteland after six months?
Experience speaks volumes, and our track record includes everything from modular M-Tray systems on schools to semi-intensive installations on luxury developments. We’ve solved structural load challenges that had other contractors scratching their heads, and we’ve turned problematic flat surfaces into energy-efficient spaces that actually add value to properties. We specialise in both new build and refurbishment projects across Essex and beyond.
When it comes to installing roof windows, there are plenty of reasons to choose Sure Roofing. Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect when you work with us:
Quality materials matter too. We exclusively use single-ply EPDM membranes, geotextile filters, and protection fleece from trusted suppliers. No cheap imports or “it’ll do” substitutes – because your building deserves better than false economy.
How do you turn a boring flat surface into a thriving ecosystem? It’s not magic – it’s methodology. At Sure Roofing Streatham, we’ve perfected a design-build approach that takes the guesswork out of installation and delivers results that exceed expectations every single time.
First things first – we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Your commercial building in the City has completely different project requirements from a residential property in Wimbledon. That’s why every project starts with a comprehensive structural assessment. We calculate load-bearing capacity, analyse weight loading requirements (typically 80kg/m² for extensive systems), and ensure your roof can safely support its new living installation.
Our process is bulletproof:
Site Survey & Structural Analysis
We assess everything from access to water flow capacity
System Design
Choosing between extensive, intensive, or semi-intensive based on your needs
Material Specification
Selecting the right substrate depth (usually 80mm for sedum systems)
Membrane Installation
Root barrier systems and EPDM rubber membranes
Soil Application
Substrate mixtures tailored to your chosen vegetation cover
Planting & Establishment
From sedum blanket to wildflower species
Handover & Maintenance Planning
Because the real work starts after installation
Think of it like building a layer cake – except this cake needs to handle London weather, support plant life, and last for decades! Each layer has a specific job: the membrane keeps water out of your building, the water flow element prevents waterlogging, the filter membrane stops soil from clogging drains, and the substrate provides the perfect environment for your chosen plants.
We understand roof structure requirements and design considerations that make the difference between success and failure. Weight loading needs to be precisely calculated – too shallow and plants struggle, too deep and you’re adding unnecessary structural load. Water flow gradients must be perfect to prevent ponding while maintaining moisture for plant health. Root barriers need to be installed with military precision because one small gap can spell disaster years down the line.
Collaboration is key to our success. We work closely with architects and developers, structural engineers, and landscape designers to ensure every aspect of your project is perfectly coordinated. No finger-pointing, no delays, no nasty surprises – just professional specialists delivering exceptional results.
Technology enhances our expertise too. We use thermal imaging to check membrane integrity, moisture meters to monitor soil conditions, and drone surveys for ongoing maintenance assessments. Because in 2024, professional installation requires more than just experience – it demands precision.
London’s water systems are creaking under pressure, and heavy rainfall events are becoming more frequent. Your living installation acts like a giant sponge, absorbing up to 75% of rainfall and rainwater, releasing it slowly back into the atmosphere through evapotranspiration. This stormwater runoff reduction helps prevent flooding and reduces strain on local infrastructure. Some councils even offer planning incentives for developments that include effective water retention systems.
Ever noticed how London feels like an oven during summer heatwaves? That’s the urban heat island effect in action. Traditional surfaces absorb heat and radiate it back, making cities significantly warmer than surrounding countryside. Sedum roofs and other living systems actually cool the air through evapotranspiration, reducing local temperatures by up to 5°C. It’s like giving your neighbourhood its own natural air conditioning system through urban greening.
Here’s something most people don’t realise – living installations actually protect your membrane from UV damage, extreme temperature fluctuations, and physical wear. While a conventional surface might need replacing every 15-20 years, a properly maintained installation can extend your membrane lifespan to 40+ years. The soil mix and plants shield your building from the elements, meaning fewer repairs and replacements over time.
London’s wildlife needs all the help it can get, and installations create crucial stepping stone habitats for birds, bees, and butterflies. Our native UK plant selections provide nectar sources for pollinator-friendly species while creating wildlife corridors across urban landscapes. Native wildflowers support invertebrate populations, and every flower provides essential habitat. You’re not just installing a system – you’re contributing to urban ecology and helping combat wildlife loss.
Live near a busy road or under a flight path? Living installations provide excellent sound insulation, reducing external noise by up to 8 decibels. The combination of soil, plants, and air layers creates a natural sound barrier that makes indoor spaces more peaceful and comfortable.
Sustainable construction features are increasingly important to property buyers and tenants. A well-designed installation can increase property values by 6-15% while making buildings more attractive to environmentally conscious occupants. Plus, many building certifications (like BREEAM) award significant points for living systems.
Every square metre of plant cover actively filters pollutants from the air, trapping dust particles and absorbing harmful gases. In a city like London, where air quality is a constant concern, your installation becomes a miniature air purification system, contributing to cleaner, healthier urban environments and delivering significant environmental benefits.
What if we told you your building could pay for itself? Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? But here’s the thing – installations known as living roofs aren’t just pretty to look at, they’re financial powerhouses that deliver measurable returns while transforming your building into an environmental superhero.
Energy savings alone can be staggering. A properly installed extensive green roof can reduce energy consumption and your heating and cooling costs by up to 30%. Think about it – that soil mix and vegetation act like a massive natural insulation blanket, providing thermal insulation that keeps your building warm in winter and cool in summer. Your HVAC system won’t have to work nearly as hard, and your energy costs will thank you for it.
But the benefits go far beyond your bank balance:
The numbers don’t lie – living installations deliver measurable benefits that compound over time. While the initial investment might seem significant, the lifecycle benefits of reduced energy costs, extended surface life, water management, and increased property value make this one of the smartest cost-effective long-term investments you can make.
Let’s talk money – because we know that’s probably the question keeping you awake at night! How much does installation actually cost, and more importantly, is it worth the investment? The honest answer is: it depends, but we’ll break down the numbers so you can make an informed decision.
For extensive sedum systems – the lightweight, low-maintenance option that most London properties choose – you’re looking at £80-£150 per square metre. This includes your membrane, root barrier, water flow layer, soil mix (typically 80mm depth), and sedum blanket installation.
Why the price range? Several factors affect costs:
Intensive green roofs offer deeper soil layers and diverse plant cover at £200-£400 per square metre. These systems can support herbaceous plants, small shrubs, and even trees, creating genuine wildlife habitats and accessible roof gardens. They can insulate buildings more effectively and provide roof space that can actually be used.
The higher cost reflects:
Increased structural load requirements (often 300kg/m²+)
Deeper layers (150-600mm typically)
Sophisticated irrigation systems
Premium plant selections and landscape design
Enhanced water flow and membrane systems
Semi-intensive installations fall between the two extremes at £120-£250 per square metre. These offer more plant diversity than extensive systems while avoiding the full complexity and cost of intensive installations. Types of green installations vary, but these provide excellent roof finish options.
Think of pricing like buying a car – you can get a basic model that does the job, or you can invest in premium features that deliver exceptional performance. The key is understanding what you’re actually paying for and why quality matters when you’re literally building above your head.
Roofs require ongoing care to thrive:
Annual maintenance contracts: £8-£15 per square metre
Irrigation system servicing: £200-£500 annually
Soil top-ups (every 3-5 years): £10-£20 per square metre
Plant replacement (as needed): £5-£15 per square metre
Now for the good news – installations start paying for themselves immediately through energy savings, water management benefits, and extended surface life. Most clients see return on investment within 8-12 years, after which it’s pure profit.
But here’s what most contractors won’t tell you – the installation cost is just the beginning. You need to factor in:
Government incentives can also reduce upfront costs. Some London boroughs offer planning incentives for sustainable construction, and certain building certifications can unlock tax benefits or grant funding.
Our honest advice? Don’t go for the cheapest quote – you’ll regret it. Installation is specialized work requiring certified professionals, quality materials, and proper membrane systems. A botched job could cost you tens of thousands in repairs, while a professional installation from Sure Roofing Streatham will deliver decades of reliable performance.
Want an accurate quote for your project? Every building is different, and cookie-cutter pricing rarely reflects reality. We offer free site surveys and detailed quotations that break down exactly what you’re getting for your investment. No hidden costs, no nasty surprises – just honest pricing from London’s specialists.
From Streatham to Stratford, Kensington to Croydon – if you’re anywhere in Greater London and dreaming of green roofs London, we’ve got you covered! Sure Roofing Streatham might be based in South London, but our certified teams have been transforming rooftops across every corner of the capital for over a decade.
Why does location matter for installation? Well, it shouldn’t – but unfortunately, many contractors cherry-pick only the “easy” postcodes. Not us. We understand that sustainable construction and urban biodiversity benefits shouldn’t be restricted to just the wealthy boroughs. Whether you’re planning a sedum installation on a Victorian terrace in Tooting or an intensive system on a commercial development in Canary Wharf, we bring the same level of expertise and commitment.
Westminster, Camden, Islington, City of London – the heart of the capital presents unique challenges for professionals. Narrow streets, restricted access, heritage buildings with specific structural load limitations, and strict planning requirements mean you need contractors who understand urban logistics. We’ve successfully installed extensive systems on everything from converted warehouses in Shoreditch to modern developments overlooking the Thames.
Conservation area restrictions? No problem. Our team has extensive experience working with listed buildings and heritage properties where planning applications require specialist knowledge. We know which systems comply with conservation guidelines and how to navigate the complex approval processes.
Kensington, Chelsea, Richmond, Hammersmith – these boroughs have some of London’s most prestigious properties, and our portfolio includes stunning rooftop gardens and installations that enhance both property values and local air quality. From semi-intensive systems on period conversions to modular installations on contemporary developments, we’ve delivered exceptional results across West London.
Heathrow flight path considerations? We factor in everything, including noise reduction benefits that living installations provide for properties under busy flight corridors. Our specifications and plant selections are optimized for both sound insulation and water management.
Streatham, Croydon, Wandsworth, Lambeth, Southwark – this is our home territory, where Sure Roofing Streatham built its reputation. We know every planning department, understand local building regulations, and have established relationships with suppliers and structural engineers across South London.
From residential terraces to commercial units, we’ve installed systems that transform ordinary buildings into energy-efficient, wildlife-friendly spaces. Our maintenance contracts across South London mean we’re never far away when you need ongoing support for your living roof system.
Tower Hamlets, Hackney, Newham, Greenwich – East London’s regeneration has created exciting opportunities for sustainable construction and innovative applications. We’ve worked on everything from social housing developments to cutting-edge commercial projects, delivering runoff reduction and urban heat island mitigation where they’re needed most.
Olympic legacy projects? We’re proud to have contributed to several building initiatives in the post-Olympic development areas, helping create wildlife habitats and pollinator-friendly spaces across East London’s evolving landscape. We work on existing buildings, retrofit projects, and podium installations.
Camden, Islington, Haringey, Barnet – North London’s mix of Victorian housing and modern developments requires versatile specialists who can adapt to diverse architectural challenges. Our certified teams have successfully completed projects ranging from extensive sedum systems on converted schools to intensive rooftop gardens on luxury residential developments.
Highgate and Hampstead slopes? Even challenging topography doesn’t stop us. We’ve developed specialist techniques for installation on sloped and irregular structures, ensuring perfect water flow gradients and membrane integrity regardless of geometry.
Getting materials and equipment to your site efficiently is crucial for project success and cost control. Our London-wide coverage is supported by strategic partnerships with crane hire companies, specialist transport providers, and materials suppliers across the capital. This means we can deliver soil mix, water flow elements, and pre-grown plants to your site without the logistical headaches that plague less organized contractors.
Congestion charge zones, restricted access, parking limitations – we’ve navigated every possible urban challenge and build these considerations into our project planning from day one. Your installation won’t be delayed by avoidable logistics problems.
No matter where you are in London, Sure Roofing Streatham delivers the same high standards of expertise, quality materials, and professional service. Our 40-year guarantees and insurance-backed warranties apply everywhere we work, because excellent installations shouldn’t depend on your postcode.
Got questions about living installations? You’re definitely not alone! After installing hundreds of systems across London, we’ve heard pretty much every question imaginable. Here are the answers to the queries that keep cropping up in our initial consultations – plus a few you probably haven’t thought of yet.
Think of it like choosing between a lawn and a full garden. Extensive green systems use lightweight sedum plants with shallow soil (typically 80mm depth), require minimal maintenance, and cost £80-£150 per square metre. They’re perfect for most London buildings and provide excellent water management and energy efficiency benefits.
Intensive installations are the full works – deeper soil layers (150-600mm), diverse plant cover including shrubs and small trees, and accessible spaces you can actually use. They cost more (£200-£400 per square metre) and need regular maintenance, but they create genuine rooftop gardens and wildlife habitats.
Most flat surfaces can, but it depends on your building’s structural capacity. Extensive systems typically add 80-120kg per square metre when saturated, while intensive systems can add 300kg+. We always start with a comprehensive structural survey and load calculations to ensure your building can safely support the additional weight. Many existing buildings can accommodate these systems with proper assessment.
Victorian buildings often surprise people – they were built to last and frequently have excellent load-bearing capacity. Modern buildings sometimes need structural reinforcement, but it’s usually manageable and cost-effective.
A properly installed system can last 40+ years – significantly longer than conventional surfaces. The plants and soil protect your membrane from UV damage and temperature extremes, actually extending its lifespan.
Maintenance requirements depend on your system type. Extensive sedum installations need annual inspections, occasional weeding, and soil top-ups every few years. Intensive systems require more regular care – think of it like maintaining a garden that happens to be on your building.
Absolutely – and the savings can be substantial. Living installations provide excellent thermal insulation, reducing heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. Most clients see 20-30% reductions in energy consumption related to temperature control. The thicker your soil layer, the better the thermal resistance.
Your HVAC system will work less hard, last longer, and your carbon footprint will shrink considerably. It’s like wrapping your building in a natural insulation blanket that also happens to look beautiful.
They’re incredibly effective for water management. A typical installation retains 40-80% of annual rainfall, releasing it slowly through evapotranspiration rather than overwhelming systems. During heavy downpours, this runoff reduction can prevent localised flooding and reduce pressure on London’s already strained sewerage infrastructure.
Some councils offer planning incentives for developments that include effective water retention systems, recognizing their importance for urban flood management.
Usually not for straightforward installations, but it depends on your property type and location. Listed buildings, conservation areas, and significant height increases typically require planning approval. We handle all planning applications and building regulation compliance as part of our service, so you don’t need to navigate the bureaucracy yourself.
Most residential installations fall under permitted development rights, but commercial projects often need formal approval. We’ll advise you on requirements during our initial site survey.
We wouldn’t recommend it – seriously. Installation involves complex membrane systems, precise water flow gradients, and specialized knowledge of plant establishment. A single mistake with your root barrier or membrane installation could cost thousands in water damage repairs.
Professional installation comes with 40-year guarantees and insurance backing. DIY installations typically void building insurance and rarely achieve the performance and longevity that certified professionals deliver.
Sedum varieties are the gold standard for extensive systems – they’re drought-tolerant, low maintenance, and provide excellent coverage. We often use sedum trays for efficient installation. For installations, we incorporate native UK plants like wildflower species that support pollinator-friendly ecosystems. Succulent plants also perform well in challenging urban environments.
Plant selection depends on your building’s microclimate, soil depth, and maintenance preferences. We design plant mixes specifically for London’s climate and your building’s unique conditions.
Better than you might expect! Sedum plants are remarkably hardy and provide year-round coverage, though they may change colour seasonally. The soil and plants continue providing thermal insulation even when plants are dormant.
Water flow systems are designed to handle freeze-thaw cycles, and established installations rarely suffer winter damage when properly installed and maintained.
Installations attract beneficial wildlife – birds, bees, butterflies – but they don’t typically create pest problems. Sedum systems don’t provide nesting sites for problematic species, and the elevated location naturally limits access for ground-dwelling pests.
Proper installation includes pest-resistant flow systems and membrane systems that don’t provide entry points for rodents or insects into your building.
Absolutely! The combination of living installations and PV systems is increasingly popular. The cooling effect of plants actually improves solar panel efficiency, while the panels provide partial shade that some plants prefer. We work with photovoltaic professionals to design integrated biosolar systems that maximize both energy generation and environmental benefits.
Yes! We offer comprehensive guarantees because we’re confident in our work. As an experienced roofing contractor and trusted supplier, we provide 40-year guarantees on all membrane installations and comprehensive warranties on our installation and maintenance services.
Absolutely. We have experience with built-up areas, complex roof area configurations, and challenging installations. Whether it’s remedial work on existing buildings or creating a green roof without major structural changes, we have the expertise to pave the way for successful installations. Our installer team can handle everything from simple residential projects to large commercial developments.
We’re not just any installer of green systems – we’re specialists who understand every aspect of the process. From initial roof design considerations to final completion, we ensure every project meets the highest standards. Whether it’s refurbishment work, retrofit projects, or new installations, we deliver cost-effective solutions that exceed expectations.
So, are you ready to transform your ordinary rooftop into something extraordinary? After reading through everything we’ve covered, you probably realize that installation isn’t just about slapping some plants on top of your building and hoping for the best. It’s a sophisticated blend of engineering, ecology, and craftsmanship that requires genuine expertise to get right.
Here’s the bottom line – you’ve got one chance to get your green roof right. Choose the wrong contractor, cut corners on materials, or skip proper membrane systems, and you’ll be dealing with expensive problems for years to come. But invest in professional installation from certified specialists who understand the science behind soil systems, water flow elements, and plant establishment, and you’ll enjoy decades of benefits that keep delivering value long after the initial investment.
Sure Roofing Streatham isn’t just another roofing company that’s decided to try their hand at living installations. We’re accredited specialists who’ve built our reputation on delivering extensive sedum systems, intensive rooftop gardens, and installations that exceed expectations. Our 40-year guarantees aren’t marketing gimmicks – they’re backed by genuine confidence in our work and insurance policies that protect your investment.
Every project we complete adds to London’s urban biodiversity, reduces runoff, improves air quality, and helps combat the urban heat island effect. When you choose us for your installation, you’re not just improving your own building – you’re contributing to a more sustainable, resilient city for everyone.
Our track record speaks for itself: over 500 successful installations across London and the South East, award-winning recognition from industry bodies, and a maintenance contract portfolio that proves our systems deliver long-term performance. From commercial buildings in the City to residential properties in the suburbs, we’ve solved complex challenges and delivered results that transform both buildings and communities.
The climate crisis isn’t going away, and neither are London’s challenges with flooding, air pollution, and urban heat. Living installations are part of the solution – a practical, proven technology that delivers measurable environmental benefits while improving building performance and property values. Every square metre of plant cover we install helps create a better future for London.
Ready to join the revolution? Contact Sure Roofing Streatham today for your free site survey and detailed quotation. We’ll assess your building’s structural capacity, explain your options for extensive or intensive systems, and provide transparent pricing that covers everything from membranes to plant establishment.
Don’t settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary. Don’t risk your investment with inexperienced contractors when you can work with London’s specialists. And don’t wait – every month your building remains conventional is a month of missed energy savings, water benefits, and opportunities.
Call us today and discover why property owners across London trust Sure Roofing Streatham to deliver solutions that work, last, and exceed expectations. Your building has been protecting you for years – now let us help it protect the planet too.
Sure Roofing Streatham – where professional expertise meets environmental excellence, and where your dreams become reality.
