United States/

INFORMATION INFORMATION Canada COMMERCIAL

What products for STYROFOAM™ extruded

Can a green roof polystyrene insulation, always

commercial
PMR qualify for can be used in

buildings
use a solvent-free product.
Refer to the STYROFOAM
LEED credits? maintaining a product information sheet for
A green roof PMR can provide green roof a list of compatible products.
If in doubt, contact your local
valuable credits when obtaining
Green Building Council’s LEED**
PMR? Dow representative or call
(Leadership in Energy and Often chemicals are used in 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) for
Environmental Design) rating. maintaining the green roof PMR, additional support.
Refer to Table 2 for examples including fertilizers, pesticides

Photo courtesy of American Hydrotech, Inc.

of possible credits.
For more details, refer to the
“STYROFOAM™ Extruded
Polystyrene And Dow Polyiso-
cyanurate Insulations And
LEED” brochure available at
www.dowstyrofoam.com/architect
(U.S. form # 179-05497) or
www.dowstyrofoam.ca/4architects
(Canada form # 178-00508).
For more information on
LEED, refer to www.usgbc.org
(U.S.) or www.cagbc.org (Canada).
and herbicides. Because of the
many different components
in the roof assembly, it is
recommended that chemical
compatibility be checked for
each component (e.g., filter
products, preformed drainage
layers, membranes). In general,

TA B L E 2
LEED Credits
Sustainable Sites
SS 5.1
SS 5.2
Site Development: Protect or Restore Habitat
Reduced Site Disturbance: Maximize Open Space
Green Roof PMR – A Design Primer
SS 6.1 Stormwater Management: Quantity Control
SS 6.2 Stormwater Management: Quality Control A protected membrane roof Green Roof PMR*
SS 7.1 Heat Island Effect: Non-roof (PMR) design is an ideal solu-
SS 7.2 Heat Island Effect: Roof tion for “green” roofs where Planting Layer
Filter Fabric
Water Efficiency landscaping or plantings are Landscaping Curb Drainage Layer
WE 1.1 Water Efficient Landscaping: Reduce by 50% used on the top surface. Ballast (shown: preformed
WE 1.2 Water Efficient Landscaping: No Potable Use or No Irrigation Preventing leaks is critical in drainage sheet)

WE 2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies any roof, and even more so in

Innovative Design a green roof, because repairing
ID 1 Innovation in Design this type of roof can be costly.
IN THE U.S.: IN CANADA:
• For Technical Information: 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) • For Technical Information: 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) (English); 1-800-363-6210 (French)
In a green roof PMR, typically
• For Sales Information: 1-800-232-2436 • For Sales Information: 1-800-232-2436 (English); 1-800-565-1255 (French) a fully adhered membrane is STYROFOAM™ Extruded
Polystyrene Insulation
THE DOW CHEMICAL COMPANY DOW CHEMICAL CANADA INC. installed over a concrete deck
Root Barrier Membrane
• Building Solutions • 200 Larkin • Midland, MI 48674 • Building Solutions • Suite 2200 • 250 – 6th Ave. SW • Calgary, AB T2P 3H7 and the desired thickness of
www.dowstyrofoam.com/architect www.dowstyrofoam.ca/4architects Fully Adhered
STYROFOAM™ extruded poly- Waterproofing Membrane
NOTICE: No freedom from any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and may change with time, Customer styrene insulation and a root Structural Concrete Deck
is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for Customer’s use and for ensuring that Customer’s workplace and disposal practices are in compliance
with applicable laws and other government enactments. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this document. NO WARRANTIES ARE GIVEN; ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF barrier are installed above the
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.
membrane. Figure 1
COMBUSTIBLE: Protect from high heat sources. Local building codes may require a protective or thermal barrier. For more information, consult MSDS, call Dow at 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) or call your local
building inspector. In an emergency, call 1-989-636-4400 in the U.S. or 1-519-339-3711 in Canada.

Building and/or construction practices unrelated to building materials could greatly affect moisture and the potential for mold formation. No material supplier including Dow can give assurance that mold
This layer of insulation serves
will not develop in any specific system. a dual function of providing
both long-term thermal insula-
tion value as well as mechanical
protection of the critical water-
proofing membrane during the
installation of the green roof
landscaping, including drainage
layers, drainage materials and
plantings, and the assorted
equipment used during the
installation process.

®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
**Trademark of the Green Building Council
Printed in U.S.A. ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company Form No. 179-05268-0806P&M *Not to scale. For reference purposes only.
(“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow 178-00590-0806P&M
Habitat for Humanity is a registered service mark owned by Habitat for Humanity International
5 McKay189614
 INFORMATION

Option 1: Drainage layer consisting of 1" (25 mm)

Where should Creating “diffusion closed” situations What products granular layer* What type of Regardless of the type of What are the
(colder areas in North America)* insulation, where more than one
the drainage can be used to Planting Layer
STYROFOAM™ layer of insulation is required, weight recom-
Filter Fabric
follow these guidelines:
layer be located Vapor Impermeable Surface
create a drainage 1'' Pea Gravel
extruded poly- • The bottom layer of insula-
mendations for
in a green roof Cold Exterior
40°F (4°C), 20% RH
(standing water, retention mat)
layer in a green Filter Fabric styrene should tion (the layer directly on the ballast and the
root barrier) must be at least
PMR? roof PMR? be specified in a 2" (50 mm) thick. planting layer
The location of the drainage STYROFOAM™ Extruded A number of products can be green roof PMR? • The bottom layer must be on a green roof
Polystyrene Insulation
easily incorporated into a green the thickest or, at minimum,
layer should always be above
the STYROFOAM™ extruded
Fully Adhered
Waterproofing Membrane roof PMR, depending on the
STYROFOAM™ Extruded
Polystyrene Insulation The insulation must be able equal to the top layer (e.g., 3" PMR?
Root Barrier Membrane to perform long term under [75 mm] bottom and 3" [75
polystyrene insulation to ensure Structural Concrete Deck drainage requirements, budget When designing a green roof
Fully Adhered both sustained (dead loads from mm] top).
that any water is quickly drained and any other preferences. The Waterproofing Membrane PMR, the stone ballast typically
plantings, planters, etc.) and • Lay succeeding layers of insu-
away and the full value of the Vapor main categories of products Structural Concrete Deck specified in a PMR is effectively
Drive cyclic loading (live loads from lation unbonded or unadhered.
insulation is maintained. Warm, Humid Interior include: replaced by the planting layer
70°F (21°C), 40% RH maintenance vehicles, foot • Stagger or offset all joints from
In green roof PMR deck • 1" (25 mm) (min) layer of Figure 5 to minimize any potential for
Figure 2 traffic, etc.). Because the design those of the underlying layer.
designs, a drainage layer above pea gravel, free of fines, with flotation. As detailed in Dow
of each green roof is unique, it
the insulation allows water to a filter fabric above and literature and TechNote 508,
is important that the designers Note: These are guidelines
drain off the top surface of the below the ballast (Figure 5) Option 2: Drainage layer consisting of a preformed the minimum stone ballast
Creating “diffusion closed” situations calculate both the live and dead only; it is the responsibility of
insulation, creating a “diffusion • 3/8" to 1/2" (12 mm to 12.7 plastic drainage sheet* requirement of 10-12 lb/ft2
(warm, high-humidity areas in North America)* loads created on the insulation designers and/or engineers to
open” assembly. If the insulation mm) dimpled, preformed Planting Layer (50-60 kg/m2) can be replaced
layer. STYROFOAM™ extruded calculate and accommodate
is sandwiched between a vapor plastic drainage sheet. Where Filter Fabric with a similar weight of a dry
polystyrene insulation is avail- live and dead loads in the green
retarder (e.g., saturated drainage possible, specify a product and unsaturated planting layer,
Vapor Impermeable Surface Preformed Drainage Sheet able in a range of compressive roof PMR design. If required,
felt) and the underlying mem- Vapor (standing water, retention mat) that minimizes contact with with additional ballast required
Warm, Humid Exterior Drive strengths from 35-100 psi to contact a Dow representative
brane, vapor cannot escape so 90°F (32°C), 50% RH the insulation (e.g., place around any penetration(s) and
address the specific design load- for additional information on
there is the potential for it to be dimpled side down) (Figure 6) the roof perimeter. Refer to
ing requirements for each project. the live and dead load design
driven back into the insulation • Any other product that pro- Table 1 for either weight or
For a green roof PMR that is limits for STYROFOAM™
(Figures 2 and 3). To create a STYROFOAM™ Extruded vides adequate drainage while thickness of additional ballast,
Polystyrene Insulation Filter Fabric exposed to limited pedestrian extruded polystyrene insulation.
“diffusion open” layer, ensure providing minimal direct depending on the thickness of
Fully Adhered traffic and minor landscape
that the top surface of the insu- Waterproofing Membrane contact on the underlying STYROFOAM™ Extruded
insulation. For additional liter-
Polystyrene Insulation maintenance using light power
lation has a ventilating air Structural Concrete Deck insulation (Figure 7) Root Barrier Membrane ature, call 1-866-583-BLUE (2583)
tools, typically STYROFOAM™
space as well as provides a good Fully Adhered
ROOFMATE™ or STYROFOAM™ or visit:
Waterproofing Membrane
slope for drainage. Structural Concrete Deck Highload 40 insulation may www.dowstyrofoam.com/architect
Note: Never install a polyester Cool Interior
70°F (21°C), 40% RH be specified, depending on (U.S.)
mat or moisture retention Figure 6 www.dowstyrofoam.ca/4architects
Figure 3 design loads from the planting
blanket directly on the insula- layer and other dead loads. (Canada)
tion. If used, ensure a clear Where vehicular traffic or large
drainage layer separates the Option 3: Drainage layer consisting of a commercially TA B L E 1
design loads are anticipated,
moisture retention blanket available mat and filter* STYROFOAM™ Highload 60 or Required Ballast Around Perimeters and Penetrations
and the insulation. Planting Layer
STYROFOAM™ Highload 100 STYROFOAM™ Thickness, Required Weight of Approximate Thickness of
may be required. STYROFOAM™ in (mm) Stone Ballast, lb/ft2 (kg/m2) Ballast, in (mm)
Filter Fabric
Up to 2 (50) 12 (60) 1-3/4 (40)
Potential for convective looping when installing Installing the drainage layer Drainage Layer
ROOFMATE™ CT (Canada only)
3 (75) 17 (84) 2-1/4 (60)
the drainage layer under the insulation* under the insulation can poten- and STYROFOAM™ PLAZAMATE™
Filter Fabric 4 (100) 22 (108) 3 (75)
Ballast or tially minimize the overall (U.S. only) insulations are also
Planting Layer 5 (125) 27 (132) 3-1/2 (90)
Convective Loop
benefits of the insulation by available.
Filter Fabric 6 (150) 32 (156) 4-1/4 (105)
creating a convective loop below 7 (175) 37 (180) 5 (125)
STYROFOAM™ Extruded the thermal insulation (Figure 4). STYROFOAM™ Extruded 8 (200) 42 (204) 5-1/2 (140)
Polystyrene Insulation
In this case, air can move Polystyrene Insulation

through the drainage layer and Root Barrier Membrane

reduce the overall insulation Fully Adhered

Waterproofing Membrane
value. Installing the drainage Structural Concrete Deck
layer above the insulation
Preformed
Drainage Sheet ensures that the insulation Figure 7
Root Barrier Membrane
value is maximized.
Fully Adhered
Drain Waterproofing Membrane
Structural Concrete Deck

Figure 4

®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
*Not to scale. For reference purposes only. *Not to scale. For reference purposes only.

2 3 4
 INFORMATION

Option 1: Drainage layer consisting of 1" (25 mm)

Where should Creating “diffusion closed” situations What products granular layer* What type of Regardless of the type of What are the
(colder areas in North America)* insulation, where more than one
the drainage can be used to Planting Layer
STYROFOAM™ layer of insulation is required, weight recom-
Filter Fabric
follow these guidelines:
layer be located Vapor Impermeable Surface
create a drainage 1'' Pea Gravel
extruded poly- • The bottom layer of insula-
mendations for
in a green roof Cold Exterior
40°F (4°C), 20% RH
(standing water, retention mat)
layer in a green Filter Fabric styrene should tion (the layer directly on the ballast and the
root barrier) must be at least
PMR? roof PMR? be specified in a 2" (50 mm) thick. planting layer
The location of the drainage STYROFOAM™ Extruded A number of products can be green roof PMR? • The bottom layer must be on a green roof
Polystyrene Insulation
easily incorporated into a green the thickest or, at minimum,
layer should always be above
the STYROFOAM™ extruded
Fully Adhered
Waterproofing Membrane roof PMR, depending on the
STYROFOAM™ Extruded
Polystyrene Insulation The insulation must be able equal to the top layer (e.g., 3" PMR?
Root Barrier Membrane to perform long term under [75 mm] bottom and 3" [75
polystyrene insulation to ensure Structural Concrete Deck drainage requirements, budget When designing a green roof
Fully Adhered both sustained (dead loads from mm] top).
that any water is quickly drained and any other preferences. The Waterproofing Membrane PMR, the stone ballast typically
plantings, planters, etc.) and • Lay succeeding layers of insu-
away and the full value of the Vapor main categories of products Structural Concrete Deck specified in a PMR is effectively
Drive cyclic loading (live loads from lation unbonded or unadhered.
insulation is maintained. Warm, Humid Interior include: replaced by the planting layer
70°F (21°C), 40% RH maintenance vehicles, foot • Stagger or offset all joints from
In green roof PMR deck • 1" (25 mm) (min) layer of Figure 5 to minimize any potential for
Figure 2 traffic, etc.). Because the design those of the underlying layer.
designs, a drainage layer above pea gravel, free of fines, with flotation. As detailed in Dow
of each green roof is unique, it
the insulation allows water to a filter fabric above and literature and TechNote 508,
is important that the designers Note: These are guidelines
drain off the top surface of the below the ballast (Figure 5) Option 2: Drainage layer consisting of a preformed the minimum stone ballast
Creating “diffusion closed” situations calculate both the live and dead only; it is the responsibility of
insulation, creating a “diffusion • 3/8" to 1/2" (12 mm to 12.7 plastic drainage sheet* requirement of 10-12 lb/ft2
(warm, high-humidity areas in North America)* loads created on the insulation designers and/or engineers to
open” assembly. If the insulation mm) dimpled, preformed Planting Layer (50-60 kg/m2) can be replaced
layer. STYROFOAM™ extruded calculate and accommodate
is sandwiched between a vapor plastic drainage sheet. Where Filter Fabric with a similar weight of a dry
polystyrene insulation is avail- live and dead loads in the green
retarder (e.g., saturated drainage possible, specify a product and unsaturated planting layer,
Vapor Impermeable Surface Preformed Drainage Sheet able in a range of compressive roof PMR design. If required,
felt) and the underlying mem- Vapor (standing water, retention mat) that minimizes contact with with additional ballast required
Warm, Humid Exterior Drive strengths from 35-100 psi to contact a Dow representative
brane, vapor cannot escape so 90°F (32°C), 50% RH the insulation (e.g., place around any penetration(s) and
address the specific design load- for additional information on
there is the potential for it to be dimpled side down) (Figure 6) the roof perimeter. Refer to
ing requirements for each project. the live and dead load design
driven back into the insulation • Any other product that pro- Table 1 for either weight or
For a green roof PMR that is limits for STYROFOAM™
(Figures 2 and 3). To create a STYROFOAM™ Extruded vides adequate drainage while thickness of additional ballast,
Polystyrene Insulation Filter Fabric exposed to limited pedestrian extruded polystyrene insulation.
“diffusion open” layer, ensure providing minimal direct depending on the thickness of
Fully Adhered traffic and minor landscape
that the top surface of the insu- Waterproofing Membrane contact on the underlying STYROFOAM™ Extruded
insulation. For additional liter-
Polystyrene Insulation maintenance using light power
lation has a ventilating air Structural Concrete Deck insulation (Figure 7) Root Barrier Membrane ature, call 1-866-583-BLUE (2583)
tools, typically STYROFOAM™
space as well as provides a good Fully Adhered
ROOFMATE™ or STYROFOAM™ or visit:
Waterproofing Membrane
slope for drainage. Structural Concrete Deck Highload 40 insulation may www.dowstyrofoam.com/architect
Note: Never install a polyester Cool Interior
70°F (21°C), 40% RH be specified, depending on (U.S.)
mat or moisture retention Figure 6 www.dowstyrofoam.ca/4architects
Figure 3 design loads from the planting
blanket directly on the insula- layer and other dead loads. (Canada)
tion. If used, ensure a clear Where vehicular traffic or large
drainage layer separates the Option 3: Drainage layer consisting of a commercially TA B L E 1
design loads are anticipated,
moisture retention blanket available mat and filter* STYROFOAM™ Highload 60 or Required Ballast Around Perimeters and Penetrations
and the insulation. Planting Layer
STYROFOAM™ Highload 100 STYROFOAM™ Thickness, Required Weight of Approximate Thickness of
may be required. STYROFOAM™ in (mm) Stone Ballast, lb/ft2 (kg/m2) Ballast, in (mm)
Filter Fabric
Up to 2 (50) 12 (60) 1-3/4 (40)
Potential for convective looping when installing Installing the drainage layer Drainage Layer
ROOFMATE™ CT (Canada only)
3 (75) 17 (84) 2-1/4 (60)
the drainage layer under the insulation* under the insulation can poten- and STYROFOAM™ PLAZAMATE™
Filter Fabric 4 (100) 22 (108) 3 (75)
Ballast or tially minimize the overall (U.S. only) insulations are also
Planting Layer 5 (125) 27 (132) 3-1/2 (90)
Convective Loop
benefits of the insulation by available.
Filter Fabric 6 (150) 32 (156) 4-1/4 (105)
creating a convective loop below 7 (175) 37 (180) 5 (125)
STYROFOAM™ Extruded the thermal insulation (Figure 4). STYROFOAM™ Extruded 8 (200) 42 (204) 5-1/2 (140)
Polystyrene Insulation
In this case, air can move Polystyrene Insulation

through the drainage layer and Root Barrier Membrane

reduce the overall insulation Fully Adhered

Waterproofing Membrane
value. Installing the drainage Structural Concrete Deck
layer above the insulation
Preformed
Drainage Sheet ensures that the insulation Figure 7
Root Barrier Membrane
value is maximized.
Fully Adhered
Drain Waterproofing Membrane
Structural Concrete Deck

Figure 4

®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
*Not to scale. For reference purposes only. *Not to scale. For reference purposes only.

2 3 4
 INFORMATION

Option 1: Drainage layer consisting of 1" (25 mm)

Where should Creating “diffusion closed” situations What products granular layer* What type of Regardless of the type of What are the
(colder areas in North America)* insulation, where more than one
the drainage can be used to Planting Layer
STYROFOAM™ layer of insulation is required, weight recom-
Filter Fabric
follow these guidelines:
layer be located Vapor Impermeable Surface
create a drainage 1'' Pea Gravel
extruded poly- • The bottom layer of insula-
mendations for
in a green roof Cold Exterior
40°F (4°C), 20% RH
(standing water, retention mat)
layer in a green Filter Fabric styrene should tion (the layer directly on the ballast and the
root barrier) must be at least
PMR? roof PMR? be specified in a 2" (50 mm) thick. planting layer
The location of the drainage STYROFOAM™ Extruded A number of products can be green roof PMR? • The bottom layer must be on a green roof
Polystyrene Insulation
easily incorporated into a green the thickest or, at minimum,
layer should always be above
the STYROFOAM™ extruded
Fully Adhered
Waterproofing Membrane roof PMR, depending on the
STYROFOAM™ Extruded
Polystyrene Insulation The insulation must be able equal to the top layer (e.g., 3" PMR?
Root Barrier Membrane to perform long term under [75 mm] bottom and 3" [75
polystyrene insulation to ensure Structural Concrete Deck drainage requirements, budget When designing a green roof
Fully Adhered both sustained (dead loads from mm] top).
that any water is quickly drained and any other preferences. The Waterproofing Membrane PMR, the stone ballast typically
plantings, planters, etc.) and • Lay succeeding layers of insu-
away and the full value of the Vapor main categories of products Structural Concrete Deck specified in a PMR is effectively
Drive cyclic loading (live loads from lation unbonded or unadhered.
insulation is maintained. Warm, Humid Interior include: replaced by the planting layer
70°F (21°C), 40% RH maintenance vehicles, foot • Stagger or offset all joints from
In green roof PMR deck • 1" (25 mm) (min) layer of Figure 5 to minimize any potential for
Figure 2 traffic, etc.). Because the design those of the underlying layer.
designs, a drainage layer above pea gravel, free of fines, with flotation. As detailed in Dow
of each green roof is unique, it
the insulation allows water to a filter fabric above and literature and TechNote 508,
is important that the designers Note: These are guidelines
drain off the top surface of the below the ballast (Figure 5) Option 2: Drainage layer consisting of a preformed the minimum stone ballast
Creating “diffusion closed” situations calculate both the live and dead only; it is the responsibility of
insulation, creating a “diffusion • 3/8" to 1/2" (12 mm to 12.7 plastic drainage sheet* requirement of 10-12 lb/ft2
(warm, high-humidity areas in North America)* loads created on the insulation designers and/or engineers to
open” assembly. If the insulation mm) dimpled, preformed Planting Layer (50-60 kg/m2) can be replaced
layer. STYROFOAM™ extruded calculate and accommodate
is sandwiched between a vapor plastic drainage sheet. Where Filter Fabric with a similar weight of a dry
polystyrene insulation is avail- live and dead loads in the green
retarder (e.g., saturated drainage possible, specify a product and unsaturated planting layer,
Vapor Impermeable Surface Preformed Drainage Sheet able in a range of compressive roof PMR design. If required,
felt) and the underlying mem- Vapor (standing water, retention mat) that minimizes contact with with additional ballast required
Warm, Humid Exterior Drive strengths from 35-100 psi to contact a Dow representative
brane, vapor cannot escape so 90°F (32°C), 50% RH the insulation (e.g., place around any penetration(s) and
address the specific design load- for additional information on
there is the potential for it to be dimpled side down) (Figure 6) the roof perimeter. Refer to
ing requirements for each project. the live and dead load design
driven back into the insulation • Any other product that pro- Table 1 for either weight or
For a green roof PMR that is limits for STYROFOAM™
(Figures 2 and 3). To create a STYROFOAM™ Extruded vides adequate drainage while thickness of additional ballast,
Polystyrene Insulation Filter Fabric exposed to limited pedestrian extruded polystyrene insulation.
“diffusion open” layer, ensure providing minimal direct depending on the thickness of
Fully Adhered traffic and minor landscape
that the top surface of the insu- Waterproofing Membrane contact on the underlying STYROFOAM™ Extruded
insulation. For additional liter-
Polystyrene Insulation maintenance using light power
lation has a ventilating air Structural Concrete Deck insulation (Figure 7) Root Barrier Membrane ature, call 1-866-583-BLUE (2583)
tools, typically STYROFOAM™
space as well as provides a good Fully Adhered
ROOFMATE™ or STYROFOAM™ or visit:
Waterproofing Membrane
slope for drainage. Structural Concrete Deck Highload 40 insulation may www.dowstyrofoam.com/architect
Note: Never install a polyester Cool Interior
70°F (21°C), 40% RH be specified, depending on (U.S.)
mat or moisture retention Figure 6 www.dowstyrofoam.ca/4architects
Figure 3 design loads from the planting
blanket directly on the insula- layer and other dead loads. (Canada)
tion. If used, ensure a clear Where vehicular traffic or large
drainage layer separates the Option 3: Drainage layer consisting of a commercially TA B L E 1
design loads are anticipated,
moisture retention blanket available mat and filter* STYROFOAM™ Highload 60 or Required Ballast Around Perimeters and Penetrations
and the insulation. Planting Layer
STYROFOAM™ Highload 100 STYROFOAM™ Thickness, Required Weight of Approximate Thickness of
may be required. STYROFOAM™ in (mm) Stone Ballast, lb/ft2 (kg/m2) Ballast, in (mm)
Filter Fabric
Up to 2 (50) 12 (60) 1-3/4 (40)
Potential for convective looping when installing Installing the drainage layer Drainage Layer
ROOFMATE™ CT (Canada only)
3 (75) 17 (84) 2-1/4 (60)
the drainage layer under the insulation* under the insulation can poten- and STYROFOAM™ PLAZAMATE™
Filter Fabric 4 (100) 22 (108) 3 (75)
Ballast or tially minimize the overall (U.S. only) insulations are also
Planting Layer 5 (125) 27 (132) 3-1/2 (90)
Convective Loop
benefits of the insulation by available.
Filter Fabric 6 (150) 32 (156) 4-1/4 (105)
creating a convective loop below 7 (175) 37 (180) 5 (125)
STYROFOAM™ Extruded the thermal insulation (Figure 4). STYROFOAM™ Extruded 8 (200) 42 (204) 5-1/2 (140)
Polystyrene Insulation
In this case, air can move Polystyrene Insulation

through the drainage layer and Root Barrier Membrane

reduce the overall insulation Fully Adhered

Waterproofing Membrane
value. Installing the drainage Structural Concrete Deck
layer above the insulation
Preformed
Drainage Sheet ensures that the insulation Figure 7
Root Barrier Membrane
value is maximized.
Fully Adhered
Drain Waterproofing Membrane
Structural Concrete Deck

Figure 4

®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
*Not to scale. For reference purposes only. *Not to scale. For reference purposes only.

2 3 4
 United States/
INFORMATION INFORMATION Canada COMMERCIAL

What products for STYROFOAM™ extruded

Can a green roof polystyrene insulation, always

commercial
PMR qualify for can be used in

buildings
use a solvent-free product.
Refer to the STYROFOAM
LEED credits? maintaining a product information sheet for
A green roof PMR can provide green roof a list of compatible products.
If in doubt, contact your local
valuable credits when obtaining
Green Building Council’s LEED**
PMR? Dow representative or call
(Leadership in Energy and Often chemicals are used in 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) for
Environmental Design) rating. maintaining the green roof PMR, additional support.
Refer to Table 2 for examples including fertilizers, pesticides

Photo courtesy of American Hydrotech, Inc.

of possible credits.
For more details, refer to the
“STYROFOAM™ Extruded
Polystyrene And Dow Polyiso-
cyanurate Insulations And
LEED” brochure available at
www.dowstyrofoam.com/architect
(U.S. form # 179-05497) or
www.dowstyrofoam.ca/4architects
(Canada form # 178-00508).
For more information on
LEED, refer to www.usgbc.org
(U.S.) or www.cagbc.org (Canada).
and herbicides. Because of the
many different components
in the roof assembly, it is
recommended that chemical
compatibility be checked for
each component (e.g., filter
products, preformed drainage
layers, membranes). In general,

TA B L E 2
LEED Credits
Sustainable Sites
SS 5.1
SS 5.2
Site Development: Protect or Restore Habitat
Reduced Site Disturbance: Maximize Open Space
Green Roof PMR – A Design Primer
SS 6.1 Stormwater Management: Quantity Control
SS 6.2 Stormwater Management: Quality Control A protected membrane roof Green Roof PMR*
SS 7.1 Heat Island Effect: Non-roof (PMR) design is an ideal solu-
SS 7.2 Heat Island Effect: Roof tion for “green” roofs where Planting Layer
Filter Fabric
Water Efficiency landscaping or plantings are Landscaping Curb Drainage Layer
WE 1.1 Water Efficient Landscaping: Reduce by 50% used on the top surface. Ballast (shown: preformed
WE 1.2 Water Efficient Landscaping: No Potable Use or No Irrigation Preventing leaks is critical in drainage sheet)

WE 2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies any roof, and even more so in

Innovative Design a green roof, because repairing
ID 1 Innovation in Design this type of roof can be costly.
IN THE U.S.: IN CANADA:
• For Technical Information: 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) • For Technical Information: 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) (English); 1-800-363-6210 (French)
In a green roof PMR, typically
• For Sales Information: 1-800-232-2436 • For Sales Information: 1-800-232-2436 (English); 1-800-565-1255 (French) a fully adhered membrane is STYROFOAM™ Extruded
Polystyrene Insulation
THE DOW CHEMICAL COMPANY DOW CHEMICAL CANADA INC. installed over a concrete deck
Root Barrier Membrane
• Building Solutions • 200 Larkin • Midland, MI 48674 • Building Solutions • Suite 2200 • 250 – 6th Ave. SW • Calgary, AB T2P 3H7 and the desired thickness of
www.dowstyrofoam.com/architect www.dowstyrofoam.ca/4architects Fully Adhered
STYROFOAM™ extruded poly- Waterproofing Membrane
NOTICE: No freedom from any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and may change with time, Customer styrene insulation and a root Structural Concrete Deck
is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for Customer’s use and for ensuring that Customer’s workplace and disposal practices are in compliance
with applicable laws and other government enactments. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this document. NO WARRANTIES ARE GIVEN; ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF barrier are installed above the
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.
membrane. Figure 1
COMBUSTIBLE: Protect from high heat sources. Local building codes may require a protective or thermal barrier. For more information, consult MSDS, call Dow at 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) or call your local
building inspector. In an emergency, call 1-989-636-4400 in the U.S. or 1-519-339-3711 in Canada.

Building and/or construction practices unrelated to building materials could greatly affect moisture and the potential for mold formation. No material supplier including Dow can give assurance that mold
This layer of insulation serves
will not develop in any specific system. a dual function of providing
both long-term thermal insula-
tion value as well as mechanical
protection of the critical water-
proofing membrane during the
installation of the green roof
landscaping, including drainage
layers, drainage materials and
plantings, and the assorted
equipment used during the
installation process.

®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
**Trademark of the Green Building Council
Printed in U.S.A. ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company Form No. 179-05268-0806P&M *Not to scale. For reference purposes only.
(“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow 178-00590-0806P&M
Habitat for Humanity is a registered service mark owned by Habitat for Humanity International
5 McKay189614
 United States/
INFORMATION INFORMATION Canada COMMERCIAL

What products for STYROFOAM™ extruded

Can a green roof polystyrene insulation, always

commercial
PMR qualify for can be used in

buildings
use a solvent-free product.
Refer to the STYROFOAM
LEED credits? maintaining a product information sheet for
A green roof PMR can provide green roof a list of compatible products.
If in doubt, contact your local
valuable credits when obtaining
Green Building Council’s LEED**
PMR? Dow representative or call
(Leadership in Energy and Often chemicals are used in 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) for
Environmental Design) rating. maintaining the green roof PMR, additional support.
Refer to Table 2 for examples including fertilizers, pesticides

Photo courtesy of American Hydrotech, Inc.

of possible credits.
For more details, refer to the
“STYROFOAM™ Extruded
Polystyrene And Dow Polyiso-
cyanurate Insulations And
LEED” brochure available at
www.dowstyrofoam.com/architect
(U.S. form # 179-05497) or
www.dowstyrofoam.ca/4architects
(Canada form # 178-00508).
For more information on
LEED, refer to www.usgbc.org
(U.S.) or www.cagbc.org (Canada).
and herbicides. Because of the
many different components
in the roof assembly, it is
recommended that chemical
compatibility be checked for
each component (e.g., filter
products, preformed drainage
layers, membranes). In general,

TA B L E 2
LEED Credits
Sustainable Sites
SS 5.1
SS 5.2
Site Development: Protect or Restore Habitat
Reduced Site Disturbance: Maximize Open Space
Green Roof PMR – A Design Primer
SS 6.1 Stormwater Management: Quantity Control
SS 6.2 Stormwater Management: Quality Control A protected membrane roof Green Roof PMR*
SS 7.1 Heat Island Effect: Non-roof (PMR) design is an ideal solu-
SS 7.2 Heat Island Effect: Roof tion for “green” roofs where Planting Layer
Filter Fabric
Water Efficiency landscaping or plantings are Landscaping Curb Drainage Layer
WE 1.1 Water Efficient Landscaping: Reduce by 50% used on the top surface. Ballast (shown: preformed
WE 1.2 Water Efficient Landscaping: No Potable Use or No Irrigation Preventing leaks is critical in drainage sheet)

WE 2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies any roof, and even more so in

Innovative Design a green roof, because repairing
ID 1 Innovation in Design this type of roof can be costly.
IN THE U.S.: IN CANADA:
• For Technical Information: 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) • For Technical Information: 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) (English); 1-800-363-6210 (French)
In a green roof PMR, typically
• For Sales Information: 1-800-232-2436 • For Sales Information: 1-800-232-2436 (English); 1-800-565-1255 (French) a fully adhered membrane is STYROFOAM™ Extruded
Polystyrene Insulation
THE DOW CHEMICAL COMPANY DOW CHEMICAL CANADA INC. installed over a concrete deck
Root Barrier Membrane
• Building Solutions • 200 Larkin • Midland, MI 48674 • Building Solutions • Suite 2200 • 250 – 6th Ave. SW • Calgary, AB T2P 3H7 and the desired thickness of
www.dowstyrofoam.com/architect www.dowstyrofoam.ca/4architects Fully Adhered
STYROFOAM™ extruded poly- Waterproofing Membrane
NOTICE: No freedom from any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and may change with time, Customer styrene insulation and a root Structural Concrete Deck
is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for Customer’s use and for ensuring that Customer’s workplace and disposal practices are in compliance
with applicable laws and other government enactments. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this document. NO WARRANTIES ARE GIVEN; ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF barrier are installed above the
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.
membrane. Figure 1
COMBUSTIBLE: Protect from high heat sources. Local building codes may require a protective or thermal barrier. For more information, consult MSDS, call Dow at 1-866-583-BLUE (2583) or call your local
building inspector. In an emergency, call 1-989-636-4400 in the U.S. or 1-519-339-3711 in Canada.

Building and/or construction practices unrelated to building materials could greatly affect moisture and the potential for mold formation. No material supplier including Dow can give assurance that mold
This layer of insulation serves
will not develop in any specific system. a dual function of providing
both long-term thermal insula-
tion value as well as mechanical
protection of the critical water-
proofing membrane during the
installation of the green roof
landscaping, including drainage
layers, drainage materials and
plantings, and the assorted
equipment used during the
installation process.

®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
**Trademark of the Green Building Council
Printed in U.S.A. ®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company Form No. 179-05268-0806P&M *Not to scale. For reference purposes only.
(“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow 178-00590-0806P&M
Habitat for Humanity is a registered service mark owned by Habitat for Humanity International
5 McKay189614