What is a teal roof?
A green-blue roof is an innovative roof concept that not only contains plants, but also captures and retains water. It combines the benefits of a traditional green roof with a smart water storage system, allowing rainwater to be temporarily stored and only discharged later. This helps prevent flooding in urban areas and contributes to a more sustainable living environment.
Green-blue roof vs. green roof
The main purpose of a traditional green roof is to increase biodiversity and better insulate buildings. A green-blue roof goes a step further by also actively buffering rainwater. This water can be reused for irrigation or drained slowly, reducing the burden on the sewer system during heavy rainfall.
Why choose a teal roof?
A teal roof offers a wide range of benefits:
✅ Water management – Rainwater is collected and slowly drained, reducing flooding.
✅ Energy savings – Improved insulation leads to lower energy costs in both winter and summer.
✅ Biodiversity – Plants and flowers attract bees, butterflies and birds.
✅ Sustainability – Roofing lasts longer by protecting against UV rays and temperature fluctuations.
✅ Subsidies available – Several municipalities have attractive subsidies for green roofs.
Check out all the green roof benefits.
How does a green-blue roof work?
A teal roof consists of multiple layers that work together:
- Vegetation layer – Sedum, herbs or native flowers provide greenery on the roof.
- Substrate layer – Provides nutrients and stability for planting.
- Drainage and water buffer layer – Holds and releases rainwater in a controlled manner.
- Waterproof roofing – Prevents leaks and protects the building.
Different systems
There are several types of green roofs, including:
- Extensive teal roof – Lightweight, mostly sedum plants, captures 20+ gallons of water per sq. ft.
- Biodiverse green-blue roof – Minimum 30% herbs and flowers, captures 30+ gallons of water per sq. ft.
- Intensive teal roof – Can contain trees and shrubs, captures 70+ gallons of water per sq. ft.
Grants for green roofs
Want to have a teal roof installed? If so, you can apply for a grant in many municipalities.
In Utrecht, for example, an attractive green-blue roof subsidy is available. Here the following applies:
- Higher subsidy per sq. ft. – The more water your roof can buffer, the higher the fee.
- Lower minimum requirements – You can apply for subsidies as low as 6 m².
- 100% reimbursement for U pass holders – For residents with a U pass, costs are fully covered up to a set amount per sq. ft.
View all details about the green-blue roof subsidy Utrecht here.
Our teal roof packages
At Groendakspecialist.co.uk we offer different green roof packages tailored to your situation:
???? Sedum herb roof – Natural biodiversity and water buffering.
???? Native Flower Meadow Roof. – Additional biodiversity and attractive to insects.
???? Retention Roof – Maximum water storage, ideal for urban areas.
???? Green roof with insulation – Water buffer and energy savings.
What does a teal roof cost?
The cost of a teal roof varies depending on the construction and type of planting. Factors affecting the price:
- Size of roof.
- Water storage capacity.
- Type of vegetation (sedum, herbs, flowers, shrubs).
- Any additional insulation and drainage systems.
Use the cost indicator tool for a price quote.
Need a green-blue roof installed? Get in touch!
Want to enjoy the benefits of a green roof and the subsidies available? Greenroofspecialist.com will help you with the complete construction and subsidy application.



