Which Conservatory Roofs Are Right For You?
The roof of a conservatory can be damaged or even deteriorate over time. This can affect the ability of your conservatory to provide the space you require with the insulation and practicality it requires.
If you decide to replace your conservatory roof the building control regulations must be adhered to. This will require an in-depth review of the frame and structure to ensure it can withstand the an additional weight of a solid roof.
Polycarbonate
A conservatory roof made of polycarbonate is a cost-effective roofing choice that is widely used in homes. It's durable and requires very little maintenance, but its thermal insulation leaves much to be desired. Polycarbonate also allows too much sunlight and get extremely hot in the summer. This is especially true if it's used to build a conservatory primarily for entertaining.
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 they have a fantastic aesthetic appeal. A roof with a glazed finish can be used throughout the seasons and can transform your conservatory into a comfortable and warm space.
Conservatory roofs constructed of tiles and glass are available in a variety of colors and styles to match the style of your home and blend seamlessly. You can also choose a hybrid system such as Ultraframe's Livinroof which blends solid and glazed sections to create an elegant appearance.
The best thing about glass roofs is that it gives unobstructed views of the sky and the surrounding and floods your conservatory with natural light and creating a more spacious feeling. It's also a great option for homeowners who wish to install solar panels for their conservatories.
A conservatory roof with a glass coating on the other hand is extremely sturdy. It is able to withstand severe winds, snowfalls, and hailstones without any issues. It can also be insulated with a custom insulated pelmet to create an inviting, real-life feel and improve the acoustics in your conservatory.
A conservatory roof with a glass surface is more suited to all seasons and offers an exceptional thermal insulation that makes it three to four times more energy-efficient than polycarbonate. This can cut your energy costs significantly and create a more sustainable conservatory. A roof that is glazed will require less maintenance and is more resistant to weathering. This will help you save money over the long term. Installation is simple and quick and requires only removing the existing glazing bars and a few screws, along with a rubber mallet. The new double-glazed panel is then placed over the existing polycarbonate sheet.
Tiled
Upgrade your roofing system If your conservatory is hot in summer and cold in winter. Replacing the roof of your conservatory will improve the efficiency of your home, reduce noise and create a more comfortable space that you will be able to relax in.
You can build a solid roof conservatory that fits your home by using a wide range of durable, lightweight slates and tiles. You can also select from a range of colors to match the frames and windows of your home and create a unique space.
Tiled conservatory roofing is designed to replace the old polycarbonate and glass roofs, offering a more efficient option for energy consumption that's ideal for modern homes. Their impressive u-values can be up to 0.15 W/m2K, and they come with a breathable membrane, eliminating the risk of overheating and condensation that is common to polycarbonate conservatory roofs.
They can also make your conservatory look more like an extension of your house instead of a glazed space that is distinct. They can result in up to a 50 per cent reduction in the amount of energy that your conservatory will require to heat up, since they can hold the heat and stop it from leaving like older roof styles.
Another benefit of a replacement conservatory roof is that it will increase the value of your property by making it an easier space to use for your family and guests. It also gives you an chance to add a touch of luxury to your home since you'll be proud to show it to guests.
While tiled conservatory roofs offer high levels of weather resistance and durability, they do need to be regularly inspected and maintained. This is due to the fact that they are prone to damage caused by extreme weather conditions, and dirt can gather quickly. If you work with a conservatory roofing specialist you can be assured that your solid roof conservatory is maintained to the best standards for many years.
Glass
The most popular choice of conservatory roof replacement glass roofs have the ability to provide a broad variety of advantages. They provide a beautiful and classic design, while letting in plenty of natural light into your space, helping you to enjoy a brighter room. Glass roofs let you enjoy stunning views of the outdoors - perfect for stargazing and drinking hot chocolate during winter.
Glass conservatory roofs come in a range of tints to give you the look and feel that you want for your conservatory. You can choose an option for self-cleaning that makes use of the sun's light to dissolve dirt. This means that you will not have the need for regular cleaning which makes your conservatory a space that you can use all year long.
You can also opt for an intelligent glass roof to increase your home's thermal efficiency. repairmywindowsanddoors has an increased U value than standard glass, which helps keep your home warm and cozy during winter. Plus, it has a self-cleaning coating and a warm edge to further increase its energy-efficiency capabilities.
A hybrid conservatory roof is another alternative. This type of roof has sections of solid materials alongside glass panels which allows you to benefit from both types of materials. This helps you to balance temperature control and ensure an open and bright space. Hybrid roofs are more expensive than other types of conservatory roofs, but they're worth it in terms of their versatility and durability.
Polycarbonate is a low-cost conservatory roof, but doesn't provide as much insulation as some other alternatives. It is also fragile and could require periodic repairs. If you choose a polycarbonate roofing material ensure that you purchase high-quality panels. Also, install a sturdy frame to protect it from damage.
You can also learn more about the Composite
Typically made from polycarbonate sheets that have air gaps in the middle the roof allows lots of light and is a sensible option. However it's not as efficient as other options and is susceptible to heat loss in the winter. Polycarbonate can also be prone to condensation and the need for frequent repairs.
It is possible with the right contractor, to upgrade your conservatory by putting on a new glass roof or tiled roof that will offer better insulation and a variety of benefits. This includes:
The efficiency of thermal energy can be improved
Replace your old conservatory with a contemporary design to cut down on energy consumption and keep your home comfortable throughout the year.
A new roof can also provide a new dimension to a sunroom or garden. Glass roofs can, for instance, let you enjoy the outdoors even in severe weather. You can also choose features like solar control glass, self-cleaning and low-emissivity coatings to reduce reflections and increase the amount of natural light entering your home.
They're popular because they are an excellent option for insulation, and can be matched with various architectural styles. Tiled roofs are available in many colours and have a 30-year warranty. They can be a challenge and susceptible to moss, which is why regular maintenance and cleaning is required.
Solid roofs, like Ultraroof by Ultraframe, are a great alternative to tiled or polycarbonate roofs. These roofs are made from an extremely thick layer of XPS insulation foam encased by premium aluminium. This system was designed using NASA-calibrated technologies that can help reduce the energy consumption of your home while keeping it cool in summer and warm in the winter.
Solid roofs will require more support than other types of roofs. This will require a ceiling finish and in some instances, replacement windows to support the weight. Additionally, changing from an acrylic sheet to a solid roof is considered as a material change and must comply with building regulations.