Green Roof: What Does It Cost?

A green roof costs an average of €100 per square meter,
with prices ranging from €90 to €110 per square meter.

A green roof – beautiful and eco-friendly.
Green roofs with moss, grass, herbs, shrubs, or perennials don’t just look attractive — they also bring significant ecological benefits. They help filter dust and air pollutants, retain rainwater to ease the burden on sewer systems, and insulate the building.

In winter, the greenery helps keep warmth inside, saving on heating costs; in summer, it reduces indoor temperature. It also provides valuable habitat for insects and birds.

There are two main types of green roofs:

• Extensive green roofs: 6–20 cm thick systems with low-maintenance plants such as moss and hardy ground covers.

• Intensive green roofs: 12–40 cm thick systems that can support grasses, shrubs, perennials, and even small trees.

Before installation, have a structural engineer check whether your building can bear the additional weight. In some cases, a building permit is also required.

Factors That Influence the Cost

• Type of green roof

• Choice of plants

• Roof size

What About Travel Costs?

If your property lies outside the service area, many contractors charge a travel fee — typically between €10 and €50, depending on the region.

Are There Subsidies?

Yes — you can receive financial support from KfW (Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau) for your planned green roof. Because green roofs improve insulation and energy efficiency, they are eligible for KfW’s Investment Grant 430, which offers up to 20% reimbursement of renovation costs, capped at €10,000 per residential unit.

Additionally, check with your city or municipality for local grants. Many regions in Germany offer funding for green roof projects. If no local program is available, KfW funding can still be applied.

What Do Materials and Labor Cost?

A typical green roof installation includes materials such as:

• Root protection film

• Drainage layer

• Filter mat

• Inspection chamber

• Substrate

Labor costs for landscapers or roofers are usually included in the total price. If you have experience, ask whether DIY contributions can reduce costs.

Typical total costs (including installation):

• Extensive green roof (moss, grass, herbs): €90 – €110/m²

• Intensive green roof (lawn, shrubs, trees): €180 – €250/m²

Breakdown of Component Costs

Example Calculation: Green Roof Installation

Example for a 20 m² extensive green roof (medium-cost estimate).
Labor costs are included in the material total.