The installation of a green roof system awards points in certification systems such as BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) improving the environmental credentials and, as a consequence, the market value of properties. Green roofs have an insulating effect, which means less energy is required to heat or cool a building. Finally, a green roof system also substantially extends the lifespan of the waterproofing membrane by providing extra protection from weather conditions such as hail, wind, extreme fluctuations in temperatures, UV rays, etc.