Green walls are a great way to bring the outdoors inside. They are a natural way to create a clean, fresh, and healthy environment. Installing green walls can also help to reduce CO2 emissions. The installation of green walls also earns points towards WELL certification. In addition to these benefits, you can also enhance the aesthetics of your building and improve its functionality.
While there are many advantages to installing green walls, there are also a few disadvantages. These can be addressed with careful design and selection of materials.
First, plants require consistent temperature and light. Changing weather conditions can cause some of your plants to go dormant. This means they will need more water or nutrients to survive. Plants are also sensitive to air flow. Some are more tolerant than others, so it is important to consider all factors before installing a green wall.
Another disadvantage is that changing temperatures can cause materials to expand and contract. This can deteriorate the facade of your building over time. With a green wall, you can keep your facade from deteriorating by maintaining the proper balance between your plants and the walls.
Plants also absorb toxins in the air. This is important because the toxins in buildings can affect human health. A living green wall can lower particulate matter levels by 60%.
Green walls can also mitigate the loss of biodiversity due to urbanization. This is important because plants can be used to sustain pollinators, invertebrates, and birds.
Another advantage of having a green wall is that you can increase the air tightness of your doors and windows. Depending on the specific type of wall, you may need to install an irrigation system or built-in systems. Other systems provide a self-watering mechanism.
Lastly, the presence of plants can lower stress levels. There are several studies showing the positive effects of visual access to nature on health and wellbeing. Furthermore, incorporating a living green wall can create a living art piece.
Depending on the climate, there are many types of plants that can be used for a green wall. For instance, evergreens are often preferred for outdoor green walls, as they are more resistant to changing temperatures. On the other hand, tropical plants will not survive outside.
Although the use of a green wall can lead to some negative consequences, the negative aspects can be easily addressed by carefully selecting the right materials. You should also consider the overall design of the system and the amount of maintenance required.
Many green wall systems are designed for specific projects. They may also come in different price ranges. To find the right solution for your needs, you should work with a living green wall specialist.
Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an old one, incorporating a green wall can be a smart way to bring the outdoors inside. Adding a green wall to your home can help you save money on energy, protect your interior from UV rays, and promote local biodiversity.