You may need to contact an engineering firm to minimize stormwater runoff on your property or building. Runoff is a key source of flooding for many urban areas and leads to pollution in water sources.

Many engineering design services firms create plans for mitigating stormwater runoff. These plans incorporate methods to collect rainwater and reroute the rain through channels, pipes or regulators to slow the flow of water. Green roofs are commonly used to minimize the effects of stormwater runoff.

Green roofs have a base waterproofing layer with a minimum of six inches of growing medium to support plants. Depending on the load rating of the roof, you may be able to install several feet of growing medium and plant small trees. Here are some benefits of green roofs.

Improves Stormwater Runoff

Rather than relying solely on gutters and storm drains, the plants and growing medium absorb rainfall. The Center for Green Roof Research at Pennsylvania State University found that an average of 80% of stormwater is absorbed by a green roof. Green plants provide the added benefit of absorbing pollutants from the air.

Reduces the Heat Island

Urban areas are referred to as heat islands – paved areas absorb and retain heat during the day, keeping them warmer than their suburban neighbors. Green roofs do not absorb as much heat as a traditional dark roof holds. In addition, the layers provide insulation for the interior of the building. This allows the HVAC system to work less to maintain the interior temperature.

Extends Roof Life

Ultra-violet radiation and extreme heat deteriorate a traditional roof. A green roof can last up to twice as long as a traditional roof.

It is easy to see many of the financial and environmental benefits of a green roof. Your engineering design services firm can help you select the most effective solution for your property.

Are you thinking about constructing a new commercial building? If you’re starting from scratch, you already know that it’s important that you make the right choices from start to finish. Here are three steps that will help guide you through the process of creating your new commercial space.

1. Select a Location

There are a lot of considerations to take into account when it comes into selecting the location of your new building. You’ll need to select a site that has proper zoning for the type of business you hope to conduct. A survey of the land will need to be performed to show you where exactly on the property you’re able to build. Once your site is ready, you can move onto the planning and building stage.

2. Hire a Knowledgeable Architect

Architects not only design buildings, they also work with engineers and contractors to make a structure practical for everyday use. When selecting an architect for your project, it’s important to focus on qualifications and knowledge, not just the bottom line. A talented architect will help you see your dreams through to reality. Enlist the help of professional architect services Albany GA to plan a commercial building to fit your individual specifications.

3. Build the Structure

Once you’ve settled on a final design, it’s time for your construction crew to get building. After a contractor secures a building permit, they are ready to break ground and start construction. Architects should be on hand for this process as well, as they need to be ready to check for any adjustments that need to be made to the design.

Constructing a commercial space is a costly investment – it’s important to do the project the right way. By following these tips on your building project, you’ll feel confident that the final result is exactly what you needed.