Which Conservatory Roofs Are Right For You?
Over time the roof of a conservatory could be damaged or degraded. This can affect your conservatory's ability to provide the insulation and usability that you need.
If you decide to replace your conservatory roof the building control regulations have to be adhered to. This will require an in-depth examination of the existing frame and structure to ensure that it can support an additional weight of a solid roof.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate conservatory roofing is a sought-after and cost-effective solution for many homes. It's durable and requires little maintenance however, it leaves a lot to be left to be desired in regards to thermal insulation. Polycarbonate is also able to let in too much sunlight and can become extremely hot during summer. This is especially the case if it is used to construct a conservatory solely for entertaining.
A better alternative is a replacement conservatory roof made from glass or tiles. Both of these materials provide superior insulation when compared to polycarbonate sheets, and have an attractive visual appeal. A glazed roof can be used during all seasons, and can transform your conservatory into a comfortable and cozy space.
Glass and tiled conservatory roofs are offered in a wide variety of colours, styles and finishes that will match the aesthetic of your house and blend in seamlessly. You can choose a hybrid roof like Ultraframe's Livinroof which combines solid and glazed sections to create a sophisticated appearance.
A glass roof provides an uninterrupted view of the sky, the surrounding area and skyline which is unobstructed. This allows for a lot of natural light to pour into your conservatory, creating a spacious feeling. It's also a good option for homeowners who wish to install solar panels on their conservatories.
In contrast, a glass conservatory roof is extremely robust and can withstand severe winds, hailstones and snowfall with ease. It can also be insulated with a bespoke insulated pelmet to create an authentic, warm atmosphere and improve the acoustics of your conservatory.
A conservatory roof with a glass surface is more suitable for all seasons and offers an outstanding level of thermal insulation that can make it 3-4 times more energy efficient than polycarbonate. This can cut your energy costs significantly and help you make your conservatory more eco-friendly. A roof that is glazed will require less maintenance and is more resistant to weathering. This will save you money in the long run. Installation is quick and easy and involves only removing the existing glazing bars and a few screws, as well as a rubber mallet. Then the new double-glazed panels are placed over the existing polycarbonate sheets.
Tiles
Upgrade your roofing system If your conservatory is hot in summer and too cold in winter. A new conservatory roof will increase energy efficiency, reduce noise levels and create a more relaxing space that you'll want to spend time in.
You can design a solid roof conservatory that matches your home's style with a wide range of durable, lightweight slates and tiles. You can also select from a range of colors to complement the frames and windows in your home to create a unique space.
Tiled conservatory roofs are designed to replace the old glass or polycarbonate ones, providing a more thermally efficient option that's ideal for modern homes. Their impressive U values can be as high as 0.15 W/m2K, and they come with a breathable roof membrane that eliminates the problem of condensation and overheating that is common to polycarbonate conservatory roofing.
They also make your conservatory feel more like an extension of your house, rather than a glazed space that is distinct. Repair My Windows And Doors can achieve up to a 50% reduction in the amount of energy your conservatory will need to heat, as they are able to trap in heat and prevent it from leaving like older roof styles.
A new conservatory roof replacement can also increase the value of your home, because your family and friends will be able utilize it more. It is also a great opportunity to add some luxury to your home, as you will be proud to show it to your guests.
The conservatory roofs of tile are strong and weatherproof, however they must be maintained and inspected regularly. This is due to the fact that they are susceptible to damage caused by extreme weather conditions and dirt can build up quickly. But, if you work with a specialist conservatory roofing company, you can ensure that your conservatory's solid roof will be of the highest quality for years to be.
Glass
Glass roofs are the most sought-after option for conservatory roof replacement. They offer a variety of benefits. They give a stunning and classic design, while letting plenty of natural light into your home, helping you to have a more luminous room. Glass roofs also enable you to enjoy stunning views of the world outside perfect for night-time stargazing and sipping a cup hot chocolate in winter!
Glass conservatory roofs are available in a variety of tints to give you the ideal look and feel for your conservatory. You can even choose an option that self-cleans that makes use of the sun's rays to break down dirt and grime. This means you can avoid the need to clean your home regularly, making your conservatory a space that you can use all year long.
Alternatively, you can opt for an intelligent glass roof to increase your home's thermal efficiency. This type of roof has an increased U value than standard glass, which helps keep your home warm and cosy during winter. It also comes with a warm edge technology as well as self-cleaning surfaces to improve its energy efficiency.
A hybrid conservatory roof is another alternative. This type of roof consists of sections of solid materials and panels of glass that allow you to benefit from both types of material. This helps you balance temperature control and maintain the space as bright and open. Hybrid roofs are more expensive than other types of conservatory roofs, but they're worth it due to their versatility and durability.
Polycarbonate is a cost-effective alternative for conservatory roof replacement however it's not as much insulation as other alternatives. It is also fragile and may require regular repairs. If you opt for polycarbonate roofing materials make sure you purchase top-quality panels. Also, install an extremely sturdy frame to avoid damage.
Composite
Typically made of polycarbonate sheets that have an air gap in the middle the roof lets in lots of light and is a sensible option. It's not as efficient as other options and may be susceptible to loss of heat in the winter. Polycarbonate is also susceptible to condensation and may require for frequent repairs.
With the right installer, however, it's possible to transform your conservatory with a brand new glass or tiled roof that will offer more insulation as well as a variety of advantages. This includes:
Improved thermal efficiency
Replace your old conservatory with a contemporary design to reduce energy usage and keep your home warm throughout the year.
A new roof can provide a new dimension to a garden room or sunroom. For example glass roofs will let you enjoy the outdoors even when the weather isn't great. You can also pick features such as solar control glass, low-emissivity or self-cleaning coatings to minimize glare.
Tiled roofs are a popular choice because they provide superb insulation and are an excellent option for a variety of architectural styles. They are available in a range of colors and come with a warranty that lasts for up to 30 years. However, they're difficult to clean and are vulnerable to algae and moss, therefore regular maintenance is a must.
Solid roofs such as the Ultraroof from Ultraframe are a great alternative to polycarbonate and tiled roofs. They're made from a dense layer of insulating XPS foam encased in premium aluminium. This system is engineered with NASA-calibrated technology. It will help reduce the energy usage of your home, while keeping it warm in the winter and cool in summer.
Solid roofs are the heaviest option, and will require more support from the walls of your current conservatory than other types of roofs. This will require a ceiling finish and, in some instances, replacement windows to help support the weight. A solid roof is made by converting from the polycarbonate roof to a solid sheet. This is a material change and must comply with building regulations.