Gamelt saufjøs ved Malmesetra. Skaret Norway.

Mary-la, on August 8, 2008, said:

Tell me please Bjørn... on many photos from Norway I have seen houses roofed with grass. Here there are even small bushes and trees on this roof. Why do you do it? Don't this plants stop water and spoil buildings? Could you tell me something about it? I'm interested in that :) Maryla

Bjørn Fransgjerde, on August 11, 2008, said:

Hello Maryla

I shall try to answerto the best of my ability.

Roofs covered with peat have been in use since approximatley 500 years B.C.,due to the climate turning colder.

Peat roof were efficient against low tempratures and also prevented penetration of water. To obtain this,birch bark was first applied to form a waterproof layer. Upon this layer one or two layerrs of peat,sometimes earth was placed.

Thus both grass and trees may grow on these roofs.

Greetings Bjørn.

Mary-la, on August 11, 2008, said:

Hallo Bjørn. Thank you very, very much for such extensive explanation. Now I understand structure of these roofs and effect of them.

I'm impressed by fact that this method is used for such long time. My regard for your tradition and using old, tested, good means . Houses with grassy roofs looks very pleasing and snugly :) I like it.

With wishes, Maryla