Yes, but rooftop installation requires more engineering consideration than a typical garden installation.
A rooftop does not have the same structural and environmental conditions as a ground-level garden.
Before selecting the turf, four issues deserve particular attention:
1. Structural Load
The roof structure must be able to support the complete system.
The calculation should consider not only the dry turf weight but also:
- Turf
- Cushion or underlay, if used
- Drainage/protection layers
- Pedestrian loads
- Furniture and equipment
- Water retained within the system
- Snow load where applicable
- Maintenance loads
The relevant structural engineer or project designer should determine the allowable load.
2. Waterproofing Protection
Artificial turf should not compromise the existing waterproofing membrane.
The installation system should prevent:
- Puncturing
- Abrasion
- Uncontrolled fixing through the waterproofing layer
- Water accumulation against vulnerable details
This is particularly important around roof penetrations, edges, drainage outlets and expansion joints.
3. Drainage
Roof drainage is critical.
Leaves and debris can accumulate around drains and restrict water flow. Even a highly permeable turf product cannot compensate for a blocked roof drain.
The roof system should therefore maintain appropriate drainage paths beneath and around the turf.
4. Wind Resistance
Rooftops are exposed to stronger wind forces than many ground-level gardens.
Loose-laid turf can potentially move, lift or develop edge problems if the installation system is not designed for the site.
The fixing method should therefore be selected according to:
- Building height
- Local wind conditions
- Roof configuration
- Turf dimensions
- Perimeter details
- Waterproofing requirements
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