Abstract Excessive heat transfer through an exposed traditional roof and an extensive green roof is a critical issue affecting thermal comfort and energy efficiency in educational buildings in hot, arid regions. This study examines the effectiveness of an extensive green roof system as a sustainable solution to mitigate heat gain and enhance indoor environmental quality, which is essential for student well-being and academic performance. The research applies a comparative analysis of three extensive, semi-intensive, and intensive green roof types using dynamic thermal simulations with advanced building performance software. A comprehensive literature review is combined with a case study of an educational building in Aswan, Egypt, to evaluate the thermal performance of an extensive green roof type under local climatic conditions. The results demonstrate that intensive green roofs can lower indoor temperatures by up to four to ten degrees Celsius compared to conventional roofs, while extensive systems provide a practical balance between thermal regulation and maintenance demands. The findings confirm that green roofs significantly reduce heat transfer, supporting more comfortable and sustainable learning environments in hot, arid climates. The study concludes with recommendations for selecting an extensive green roof system based on building function, climate, and desired performance outcomes, offering valuable guidance for architects and planners seeking to improve educational facilities in similar contexts.
Menchawy et al. (Tue,) studied this question.