This project began with an introduction to Kyle Washburn of CUI Services the year prior. Kyle was brought in to lead a demanding demolition and reinstallation effort atop the Huntington Bank building, a rooftop garden system that contained both soil and decorative stone throughout its beds.
The existing plant material primarily phlox and sedum, had to be fully extracted before any installation work could begin. The original start date was set ahead of Tigers Opening Day, but weather delays pushed the project back by one week, with work commencing officially the following week.
Every phase of the demolition required that zero stone or rock enter the rooftop drainage system. Given the integrated soil and stone layout of the existing beds, this demanded a meticulous, hands-on approach throughout removal.
The rooftop garden beds contained a combination of phlox and sedum throughout the soil and stone system. All plant material was carefully extracted by hand, ensuring that no stone or rock displaced into the rooftop drainage system during the process. The level of care required at this stage set the tone for the entire engagement.
With the plant material cleared, attention turned to the rooftop surface itself. Existing moss and residual soil were fully removed. The roof was then thoroughly washed and sterilized to eliminate any organic matter and ensure a clean, stable substrate — a non-negotiable step for long-term adhesion and turf performance.
A specialized turf adhesive was applied directly to the prepared rooftop surface. Drainage panels were then set into the adhesive to create an elevated platform for the turf system. These panels serve a critical function: they lift the turf off the roof membrane, allowing water to move freely underneath during rainfall and preventing pooling or water retention.
With drainage panels secured, Glacier Blend Pro turf was adhered directly onto the panels using turf adhesive. Following installation, the entire surface was power broomed, a critical step that lifts the turf fibers from their compacted state and prepares them for infill, improving both aesthetics and long-term performance.
Sand-based infill was evenly distributed across the entire turf system. The infill plays a multi-functional role: it supports the turf fibers in a natural upright position, improves long-term durability under foot traffic and weathering, and adds weight and ballast to stabilize the system against wind an especially important consideration in a rooftop environment.
The turf was power broomed a final time across the full surface to evenly distribute the infill and produce a consistent, finished appearance. This final pass also promotes long-term fiber retention and ensures the turf system maintains its performance and visual quality over time.
The existing phlox, sedum, moss, and soil had to be completely removed to prepare the rooftop for a new synthetic turf system and improved drainage performance.
Glacier Blend Pro synthetic turf was installed as part of the rooftop system for durability, appearance, and long-term performance.
The drainage panels elevate the turf system and allow water to properly flow beneath the surface during wet weather conditions, helping prevent water accumulation.
Rooftop turf systems offer improved aesthetics, reduced maintenance, enhanced drainage management, and long-term durability for commercial properties.
Rooftop installations require specialized preparation, drainage planning, material handling, and precision installation to ensure long-term structural and performance success.
After installation, the turf was power broomed, infill was distributed evenly, and the surface was broomed again to ensure a consistent finished appearance.
If you’re looking to create a custom outdoor living space in Detroit or nearby areas in Michigan such as putting green, patio, privacy landscaping, or sod installation, Grow Garden & Landscape Design is here to help. From standout projects like our Huntington Bank rooftop installation in Detroit to residential landscape transformations, we bring your vision to life. Contact our team to start planning your outdoor upgrade.
