Can plant root acids eat through a rubber membrane?

Question

I am installing a garden roof and need to know what kind of rubber membrane will work?Will be planting native Illinois,USA plants.Which plants do I stay away from because of their root acids?

Answer 1

I am not aware of root acids ,because roots suck not secretes , the acids are more from roting leafs or certain pine needles , you can use the rubber membrane that is used for pond linings .

Answer 2

Sempervivums also known as house leeks because they are so commonly used in roof top gardens are well adapted to that level of exposure. Ideal plants should have no tap roots rather roots form a mat. They should be spreading and low to the ground.
Roots secrete carbohydrates to feed symbiotic fungi but nothing capable of harming a membrane. The damage roots do is by puncturing. If the growing tip comes up against a small crevice it will enter and exert pressure over time as the root continues to grow and expand.
The membrane is a specialized product available for builders. It must be puncture resistant, flexible, have high tensile strength, and UV resistant.
'Roof Gardens: History, Design, and Construction (Norton Books for Architects & Designers)' by Theodore H. Osmundson
'Planting Green Roofs and Living Walls' by Nigel Dunnett , & Noel Kingsbury
'Green Roof Plants: A Resource and Planting Guide' by Edmund C. Snodgrass , Lucie L. Snodgrass

Answer 3

roofing rubber is not transparent therefore i do not understand why you would use this product over your garden. please include a few more details as i am confused. used rubber is excellent for weed control in the garden in between the rows, just be sure to cover with straw or it will get hot and burn the roots of your plants.

Answer 4

rubber is impervious to acid...that is why you wear rubber gloves when working with acid. any rubber roofing should be fine...