What We Did on a Recent Cornwall Roof
We carried out seasonal maintenance across six sedum roofs serving holiday rental homes in the South West, totalling around 400m². Each roof had begun to show typical seasonal overgrowth.
Work included:
• 2 sacks of biomass removed per roof, mainly couch grass, thistle and moss
• Scarification of moss-heavy areas to improve airflow and light, redistributing healthy sedum cuttings from elsewhere on the roof to bolster bare areas
• Application of slow-release, organic fertiliser specific to sedum systems
• Visual inspection of GRP membranes, cowls, upstands, and fixings
Findings were documented in a visual report, including signs of peeling top-layer paint on the GRP surface—non-critical but worth addressing with a reflective overcoat.
Beyond the Basics: What We Look For
Routine care isn’t just a tidy-up. It’s a moment for seasonal ecological judgement. On this job, for example, we removed plantain—a perfectly valid species in many biodiverse roofs—due to its height and visibility in a setting where aesthetics matter across the year. By contrast, field speedwell was retained for its ecological value and low growth habit.
We also assessed whether fertilisation was needed, rather than assuming. Feeding when not needed can encourage invasive growth. In this case, application made sense due to competitive pressure from moss and the need to boost sedum vigour.
Early Signs of Trouble, Caught Early
We often spot things that don’t look urgent, but matter later. One recurring issue is cracked pointing at the interface between masonry, flashing, and waterproofing. It’s rarely seen from below and often missed entirely—yet it can allow wind-driven ingress in ways that mimic membrane failure.
Addressed early, these details can be fixed without lifting the green roof or escalating to full rebuild.
Our Approach: Light Touch, Long View
We match our work to what the roof and the client need. Whether the priority is biodiversity, appearance, or longevity, we adjust accordingly.
Book Your Roof Check
We work with local authorities, landlords, schools, housing providers, architects, and private clients throughout the South West & South Wales.
To book your visit, just call the number on our website, email us, or reply to your most recent report if you’re an existing client. We’ll tailor the visit to your roof, your priorities, and your future peace of mind.
