Which Conservatory Roofs Are Right For You?
As time passes, the roof of a conservatory could be damaged or degraded. This could affect the capacity of your conservatory to provide your space with the insulation and functionality that you require.
Building control regulations must be adhered to when you choose to replace the conservatory roof. This will require a thorough examination of the existing frame and structure to ensure that it is able to support the any weight of the new solid roof.
Polycarbonate
A polycarbonate conservatory roof is a cost-effective roofing solution that's popular in many homes. It is durable and requires little maintenance however its thermal insulation leaves much to be desired. Polycarbonate can also let in too much sunlight and can become extremely hot during summer. This is especially the case if it is used to build a conservatory primarily to entertain guests.
A conservatory roof replacement made of glass or tiles is a better option. These materials are superior to polycarbonate sheets for insulation and have a great aesthetic appeal. A glass roof is ideal for any season and can transform your conservatory into a vital part of your home that is cosy and comfortable year-round.
Glass and tiled conservatory roofs are available in a variety of styles, colours and finishes that will match the style of your home and blend in seamlessly. You can even choose a hybrid system such as Ultraframe's Livinroof which blends solid and glazed sections for an elegant look.
The greatest benefit of a glass roof is that it provides unobstructed views of the sky and surroundings, flooding your conservatory with natural light and allowing for a spacious feel. It's also a great choice for homeowners who wish to install solar panels on their conservatories.
In contrast, a glazed conservatory roof is extremely robust and can withstand severe winds, hailstones and snowfall with ease. It can be fitted with an insulated pelmet that gives an authentic room feel and improves the acoustics in your conservatory.
A glazed conservatory roof is more suitable for all seasons and provides an exceptional thermal insulation which makes it 3-4 times more energy-efficient than polycarbonate. This can reduce your energy costs significantly and help you to make your conservatory eco-friendly. Additionally, a glass roof is more resilient to environmental wear-and-tear and requires very little maintenance, which will save you money over the course of time. The process of installing it is quick and simple that requires the removal of existing glazing bars along with a few screws and a rubber mallet. Then the new double-glazed panels are placed over the existing polycarbonate sheets.
Tiles
If your conservatory is proving too hot in the summer and cold in winter, or if it's beginning to show signs of wear and tear then it's probably time to consider upgrading your roofing system. The replacement of the roof in your conservatory will increase the efficiency of your energy, cut down on noise and create a more comfortable area that you will want to spend time in.
With a stunning range of lightweight and durable tiles and slates available you can build your new solid roof conservatory that will match your home. Additionally, you can choose from a variety of stunning shades to match the frames and windows you already have to create a space uniquely yours.
Tiled conservatory roofing is designed to replace the old polycarbonate and glass roofs, offering a more efficient energy use option that is ideal for modern homes. Their impressive u-values can go up to 0.15 W/m2K and are backed by a breathable membrane, eliminating the issue of condensation and overheating that's so common with polycarbonate conservatory roofs.
They also create an additional space that is more comfortable for your conservatory, which ensures that it is a part of your home rather than a detached glazed area. They can provide up to a 50% reduction in the amount of energy your conservatory will require to heat up, since they are able to hold the heat and stop it from escaping like the older types of roofs.
A new conservatory roof replacement will also boost the value of your home, as your family and friends will be able to make use of it more. It's also an excellent chance to add a touch of luxury to your home because you'll be proud to show it to guests.
The conservatory roofs of tile are strong and weatherproof, however they still need to be inspected and maintained regularly. They are susceptible to damage due to extreme weather conditions and dirt can build up quickly. If you choose to work with a conservatory roofing expert you can be assured that your solid roof conservatory is maintained to the highest standards for many years.
Glass
The most well-known option for conservatory roof replacement glass roofs have the ability to provide you with a wide range of advantages. They give a stunning and classic look, whilst letting in plenty of natural light into your home which allows you enjoy a more bright room. Glass roofs allow you to enjoy stunning views of the outside - ideal for stargazing or sipping hot chocolate during winter.
Glass conservatory roofs are available in a variety of colors to give you the ideal look and feel for your conservatory. You can choose self-cleaning options that uses the sun's light to dissolve dirt. This means that you will not have the need to clean your home regularly and make your conservatory a space you can use all year round.
You can also opt for a smart roof to improve the thermal efficiency of your home. It has a higher U value than standard glass to keep your home warm and cozy during the winter. It also comes with warm edge technology as well as an auto-cleaning surface that increases its energy efficiency.
Another option is a hybrid conservatory roof. This type of roof combines sections of solid materials and glass panels to give you the best of both worlds. This allows you to achieve the temperature and keep the space as bright and open. Hybrid conservatory roofs are more expensive, but their flexibility and durability are worth the investment.
Polycarbonate is a cheap alternative for conservatory roof replacement however it's not the same amount of insulation as other alternatives. Repair My Windows And Doors is also fragile and could require periodic repairs. If you opt for a polycarbonate roof, make sure to buy high-quality panels and put them on a sturdy frame to avoid damage.
You can also find more about the Composite
This type of roof is typically comprised of polycarbonate sheets with an air gap in the middle. It lets in plenty of light and can be an economical alternative. However it's not as efficient as other options and is susceptible to loss of heat during the winter. Polycarbonate is also prone to condensation, and the need for frequent repairs.
It is possible, with the right installer to make your conservatory more modern by adding a new glass roof or tiled roof that will give you greater insulation and a host of advantages. These include:
Improved thermal efficiency
Removing your old conservatory roof with a new state-of-the-art design will help you cut down on your energy costs and keep your home at a pleasant temperature all year round.
A new roof can give a completely new dimension to a sunroom or garden. For example glass roofs will enable you to enjoy the outdoors even when the weather is poor. You can also opt for features such as solar control glass, self-cleaning, and low-emissivity coatings that help to reduce glare and increase the amount of natural light entering your home.
They are popular due to their excellent option for insulation, and can be matched with various architectural styles. Tiled roofs come in many colours and have 30 year warranties. However, they can be difficult to clean and vulnerable to moss and algae, therefore regular maintenance is a must.
Solid roofs, like Ultraroof by Ultraframe are a fantastic alternative to polycarbonate or tiled roofs. They are constructed of a thick layer of XPS insulation foam, which is encased in premium aluminum. This system is engineered with NASA-calibrated technology. It will help reduce your home's energy consumption while keeping it warm in winter and cool in summer.
Solid roofs are the most heavy option, which means they'll require more support from the walls of your current conservatory than other roof types. This will require a ceiling finishing and, in certain instances, replacement windows to help support the weight. Additionally, changing from polycarbonate sheets to an actual roof is considered as a material change and must comply with building regulations.