Which Conservatory Roofs Are Right For You?
Over time the roof of a conservatory may be damaged or deteriorated. This can impact the ability of your conservatory's roof to provide the space you require, along with the insulation and practicality it demands.
If you decide to replace your conservatory roof, building control regulations must be followed. This will require an in-depth examination of the existing frame and structure to ensure that it can withstand the an additional weight of a solid roof.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate conservatory roofing is a well-known and cost-effective solution for many homes. It has a decent lifespan and requires little maintenance, but it leaves much to be desired in terms of thermal insulation. Polycarbonate is also able to let in too much sun and become extremely hot during summer. This is especially relevant if you plan to construct a conservatory solely to entertain guests.
A better alternative is to install a replacement conservatory roof constructed of glass or tiles. These materials are superior to polycarbonate sheets for insulation and have a great visual appeal. Additionally, a glazed roof is suitable for any season and can transform your conservatory into a vital part of your home, which is cosy and comfortable year-round.
Conservatory roofs comprised of tiles and glass are available in a variety of colors and styles to match the aesthetics of your home and blend seamlessly. You can choose a hybrid roof system like Ultraframe's Livinroof, which blends glazed and solid sections to create a sophisticated look.
The best thing about a glass roof is that it offers unobstructed views of the sky and surrounding area, flooding your conservatory with natural light and creating a more spacious feeling. It's also a great choice for homeowners who want to install solar panels in their conservatory.
A glazed conservatory roof is extremely robust and can withstand severe winds, hailstones, and snowfall easily. It can be also fitted with a bespoke insulation pelmet to give an authentic, warm atmosphere and enhance the acoustics of your conservatory.
A glass conservatory is better suited to all seasons, and it offers a superior level of thermal insulation. It is 3-4 times more efficient than polycarbonate. This can cut your energy costs significantly and create a more sustainable conservatory. A roof with a glazed finish will require less maintenance and is more resistant to weathering. This will help you save money over the long term. Installation is quick and easy, and only requires removing the existing glazing bars and a couple of screws along with a rubber mallet. The new double-glazed panels are placed over the existing polycarbonate sheets.
Tiled
Upgrade your roofing system in case your conservatory is too hot in summer and too cold in winter. Replacing conservatory door hinge replacement of your conservatory will increase energy efficiency, reduce noise and create a comfortable space that you will want to spend time in.
With a stunning selection of durable and lightweight tiles and slates available to you, you can create your new solid roof conservatory that will fit your home. In addition you can pick from a wide range of stunning shades to match your existing frames and windows, creating a space that's completely unique to you.
Tiled conservatory roofs are designed to replace older polycarbonate or glass ones offering a more thermally efficient option that is 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 will eliminate the issue of overheating and condensation that is typical of polycarbonate conservatory roofing.
They can also make your conservatory look more like an extension of your home, rather than a glazed space that is distinct. They can cut down on the amount of energy required to heat your conservatory by up 50 percent. This is because they can trap heat and prevent it leaving, unlike traditional roof types.
Another benefit of replacing a conservatory roof is that it can increase the value of your home by making it an easier space to use for your guests and family. It's also an excellent opportunity to add some elegance to your home, as you will be proud to show it to guests.
Tiled conservatory roofs are durable and weatherproof, however they require to be regularly inspected and maintained. They are vulnerable to damage from extreme weather conditions and dirt can accumulate quickly. If you choose a specialized conservatory roofing company, you can ensure that your conservatory's solid roof will be of the highest standard for many years to come.
Glass
The most popular choice of conservatory roof replacement, glass roofs are able to provide a broad variety of benefits. Glass roofs are a popular option that can enhance your room with natural light. Glass roofs let you enjoy stunning views of the outdoors - perfect for stargazing and drinking hot chocolate in winter.
Glass conservatory roofs come in a variety of tints to give you the perfect look and feel for your conservatory. You can choose self-cleaning options that uses the sun's light to break down dirt. You will save time by not having to clean your conservatory on a regular basis.
If you prefer, you can opt for a smart glass roof to increase your home's thermal efficiency. This option offers an increased U-value than traditional glass, making sure you keep your home warm and cozy throughout the winter months. It also comes with warm edge technology and self-cleaning surfaces to improve its energy efficiency.
Another option is a hybrid conservatory roof. This type of roof combines sections of solid material with glass panels to provide you with the best of both worlds. This allows you to keep the space as bright and open while maintaining a balanced temperature. Hybrid roofs are more expensive than other kinds of conservatory roof, but they're worth the investment in terms of their versatility and durability.
Polycarbonate is an inexpensive conservatory roof choice however it doesn't offer the same amount of insulation as other alternatives. It's also fragile and could require frequent repairs. If you decide to install a polycarbonate roof, make sure you purchase top-quality panels and put them on a sturdy frame to protect against damage.
Composite
This type of roof is typically comprised of polycarbonate sheets with an air gap in the middle. It allows in lots of light and can be an affordable alternative. It's not as efficient as other options, and could be prone to heat loss in the winter. Polycarbonate is also prone to condensation, and the need for frequent repairs.
It is possible with the right contractor, to upgrade your conservatory by installing a glass roof or tiled roofing that will give you more insulation and a range of benefits. This includes:
Improved thermal efficiency
Replace your old conservatory with a modern design to cut down on energy consumption and keep your home warm throughout the year.
A new roof can give a completely new dimension to your sunroom or garden. A glass roof can, for instance, let you take advantage of the outdoors even in bad weather. You can also select features like solar control glass, low-emissivity and self-cleaning coatings to minimize the glare.
Tiled roofs are a very popular choice because they provide great insulation and are an excellent match for a wide range of architectural styles. Tiled roofs are available in a variety of colours and carry 30 year warranties. They can be a challenge and prone to moss, so regular maintenance and cleaning is essential.
Solid roofs, like Ultraroof by Ultraframe are a fantastic alternative to tiled or polycarbonate roofs. They are constructed from a thick layer of insulating XPS foam that is encased in premium aluminium. This system is engineered with NASA-calibrated technology and can aid in reducing your home's energy consumption while keeping it warm in the winter and cool in summer.
Solid roofs are the most heavy option, and will require more support from the walls of your current conservatory than other roof types. This will require a ceiling lining and, in certain instances replacement windows to support the weight. A solid roof is constructed by changing from an existing polycarbonate roof to a solid sheet. This is a material change that must be in compliance with building regulations.