Green facades and facade protection - how do plants protect a building from the weather?
Green facades, also known as living walls or vertical gardens, are an increasingly common sight not only in large cities, but also in smaller towns and cities, on public buildings, office blocks, hotels and even single-family homes. Although they are aesthetically stunning at first glance, their function does not end with their visual qualities. Green facades are an effective and natural protection of facades against many harmful atmospheric factorswith which buildings struggle throughout the year.
How do plants protect the façade?
Green walls act as a natural protective shield. Vegetation forms a lush layer between the building wall and the surroundings, which significantly reduces the impact of external conditions. Here is how specific atmospheric factors are neutralised with green facades:
☀️ UV radiation
One of the greatest enemies of facades is sunlight. Prolonged exposure to UV rays causes the paint to gradually fade, the structure of the façade materials to weaken and the surface to wear more quickly. Vegetation acts as a filter - it absorbs and scatters the sun's rays, protecting the wall from direct sunlight and slowing down degradation processes.
🌧️ Rain and moisture
Frequent precipitation can lead to dampness of the façade, which promotes mould, efflorescence and cracks. Green façades stop much of the precipitation before it reaches the wall. Raindrops run down the leaves and not directly on the façade - this reduces the risk of erosion, soaking of the wall and the growth of unwanted micro-organisms.
💨 Wind, dust and particles
Strong gusts of wind carrying dust, sand or pollen are also not without effect on the condition of the façade. The green layer acts as a natural barrier - it absorbs dirt and disperses the wind, reducing its impact on the wall. As a result, the façade wears down more slowly and stays cleaner for longer.
🌡️ Extreme temperatures
In summer, uncovered walls can heat up to very high temperatures, while in winter they can cool down drastically. Green facades regulate the microclimate around a building by acting as a thermal insulation layer. They reduce the temperature differences between day and night and between inside and outside, which has a positive effect not only on the façade, but also on the energy efficiency of the entire building.
Natural substrate and thoughtful plant selection - the key to success
In our Green Facades range, every implementation is based on a robust installation system and a natural substrate in which plants can grow freely. We don't use prefabricated mats - our system is soil-based, which means that plants are more resistant to weather changes, have better rooting and the whole installation lasts longer.
We always tailor the choice of plants to the conditions of the façade and the objectives of the project - whether you want maximum wall protection, aesthetics, air filtration or perhaps noise reduction. We work with landscape architects to ensure that each façade is unique and refined down to the smallest detail.
Green screens - ready-made hedges for special tasks
One of the most versatile solutions are green screens, or pre-made, fully greened ivy hedges. These vertical gardens are more than just decoration - they are an effective noise barrier and air filter. This makes them ideal for use in offices, around car parks, next to warehouses, restaurants, hotels or commercial buildings.
All our green screens are easy to install, ready to use and come with a 10-year guarantee. The plants (e.g. Hedera helix Woerner) are hardy, visually attractive and easy to care for, making them perfect all year round - even in harsher urban environments.
Green façades - benefits beyond protection
Although 'green façades and façade protection' is a key topic, it is impossible to ignore the range of additional benefits that investing in a vegetated wall brings:
- Air purification - plants absorb pollutants, CO₂ and dust, helping to improve air quality in the area.
- Oxygen production - the green façade 'breathes', which has a positive effect on the wellbeing of the building's occupants and users.
- Noise reduction - foliage and vines muffle sound, which is especially useful in noisy urban spaces.
- Modern design - the vegetated façade is a strong visual accent that attracts attention and underlines the investor's pro-environmental values.
- Added value - buildings with a green façade are seen as more prestigious, and more attractive to tenants and customers.
Comprehensive service - from design to care
At Green Facades, we provide full support at every stage of the project. We offer:
- individual consultations and audits,
- design to suit the architecture and location,
- professional installation of the system and plants,
- care and after-sales service.
This ensures that your green façade will not only be beautiful and durable, but also functional for many years to come.
Green facades - an investment in conservation, aesthetics and the future
If you want to protect your façade from the effects of time, weather and pollution, a green wall is a solution that combines ecology with modern architecture. Green façades are more than decoration - they are real savings and sustainability for your building. Contact us to create a green space that will last for years - and delight every day.
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