Which Conservatory Roofs Are Right For You?
A conservatory's roof may be damaged or even deteriorate over time. This could affect the capacity of your conservatory to provide the space you require with the insulation and functionality it requires.
If you decide to replace your conservatory roof the building control regulations must be adhered to. This requires a thorough inspection of the frame and structure to ensure that it can support the weight of the new solid roof.
Polycarbonate
A polycarbonate conservatory roof is a cost-effective roofing option that is popular in many homes. It is durable and requires little maintenance but its thermal insulation leaves much to be desired. Polycarbonate also lets in too much sunlight and can become unbearably hot in the summer months, particularly when it is used for a conservatory that's primarily used to entertain guests.
A conservatory roof made of tiles or glass is a better option. Both materials offer superior insulation compared to polycarbonate sheets and offer an attractive aesthetic appeal. Plus, a glazed roof is suitable for all seasons and can transform your conservatory into a vital part of your home, which is cozy and comfortable all year round.
Conservatory roofs comprised 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 opt for a hybrid roof system like Ultraframe's Livinroof which blends glazed and solid sections to create a stylish look.
The most appealing thing about glass roofs is that it gives unobstructed views of the sky and surrounding area and floods your conservatory with natural light and allowing for a spacious feel. It's a great option for homeowners who would like to put solar panels in their conservatories.
In comparison, a glazed conservatory roof is extremely robust and can withstand extreme winds, hailstones and snowfall with ease. It can also be insulated with a custom insulated pelmet to create an inviting, real-life feel and enhance the acoustics of your conservatory.
A glazed conservatory roof is more suitable for all seasons and has an exceptional thermal insulation that makes it three to four times more energy efficient than polycarbonate. This can cut your energy costs by a significant amount and create a more sustainable conservatory. Moreover, a glazed roof is more resistant to wear and tear and requires little maintenance, saving you money over the course of time. The installation process is simple and quick and requires only the removal of existing glazing bars, a few screws and a mallet made of rubber. The new double-glazed sheet is placed over the existing polycarbonate sheet.
Tiles
If your conservatory is too hot in summer and cold in winter, or is showing signs of wear and tear, then it might be time to think about upgrading your roofing system. The replacement of the roof in your conservatory will improve the efficiency of your home, reduce noise and create a comfortable area that you will be able to relax in.
You can design a solid roof conservatory that suits your home with an array of durable, lightweight slates and tiles. In addition you can pick from a range of beautiful colors to match your existing frames and windows, creating a space that's truly unique to you.
Tiled conservatory roofs are made to replace older glass or polycarbonate roofs and provide a more energy efficient option that's perfect for modern homes. Their impressive u-values can be up to 0.15 W/m2K, and they come with a breathable membrane, eliminating the issue of overheating and condensation that's so common with polycarbonate conservatory roofs.
They also make your conservatory feel more like an extension of your house instead of a glass area that is separate. Repair My Windows And Doors can reduce the amount of energy needed to heat your conservatory by up to 50 percent. This is due to the fact that they keep heat in and stop it from escape, unlike the older roof types.
Another benefit of replacing a conservatory roof is that it can enhance the value of your property by making it an easier space to use for your guests and family. It also gives you an opportunity to add a touch luxury to your home, because you'll be proud to show it to guests.
While conservatory roofs with tiled tiles offer high levels of durability and weather resistance however, they must be regularly inspected and maintained. This is because they are susceptible to damage from extreme weather conditions and dirt can build up quickly. However, if you work with a specialist conservatory roofing company, you can rest assured that your solid roof conservatory will remain at a high standard for many years to come.
Glass
Glass roofs are the most popular option for conservatory roof replacement. They offer a wide range of benefits. They provide a beautiful and classic appearance, while letting plenty of natural light into your home which allows you to enjoy a brighter room. Glass roofs allow you to enjoy spectacular views of the outside - ideal for stargazing and sipping hot chocolate during winter.
Glass conservatory roofs come in a variety of tints to give you the appearance and feel you desire for your conservatory. You can select self-cleaning options that uses the sun's light to remove dirt. This means that you will not have the need for regular cleaning, making your conservatory a space that you can use all year round.
If you prefer, you can opt for an intelligent glass roof to increase your home's thermal efficiency. This type of roof has a higher U value than standard glass, which helps keep your home warm and cosy during the winter. Additionally, it has a self-cleaning coating and a warm edge technology to further increase its energy-efficiency capabilities.
A hybrid conservatory roof is another option. This type of roof features sections of solid materials alongside glass panels that allow you to benefit from both types of material. This allows you to maintain an open, bright space while ensuring a comfortable temperature. Hybrid roofs are more expensive than other varieties of conservatory roof, but they're worth it due to their versatility and durability.
Polycarbonate is a cost-effective conservatory roof replacement option, but it doesn't offer as much insulation as other alternatives. It can also be quite fragile and may require periodic repairs. If you decide to install a polycarbonate roofing system, make sure to purchase high-quality panels and set up a sturdy frame to protect against damage.
Composite
The roof is usually comprised of polycarbonate sheets with an air gap in the middle. It allows in lots of light and can be an affordable option. However, it's not as energy efficient as other options and is susceptible to loss of heat during 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 installing a glass roof or tiled roofing that will offer more insulation and a range of benefits. These include:
Improved thermal efficiency
Replace your old conservatory with a modern design to reduce energy usage and keep your home warm throughout the year.
A new roof can give a completely new dimension to your sunroom or garden. For example glass roofs will let you enjoy the outdoors even if the weather is poor. You can also choose features like solar control glass, self-cleaning, and low-emissivity coatings that help to reduce glare and increase the amount of natural light entering your space.
Tiled roofs are a very popular option because they can provide superb insulation and are an excellent choice 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. They can be a challenge and susceptible to moss, which is why regular maintenance and cleaning is necessary.
Solid roofs, like Ultraroof by Ultraframe are a great alternative to tiled or polycarbonate roofs. They are constructed of a thick layer XPS insulation foam that is encased with premium aluminum. This system is engineered with NASA-calibrated technology that can help to reduce the energy use of your home while keeping it warm during winter and cool during summer.
Solid roofs are the largest option, and will require more support from the walls of your existing conservatory than other roof types. This will require a ceiling finish and in some instances, replacement windows to support the weight. Also, the transition from a polycarbonate sheet to a solid roof is regarded as material alteration and must be in line with building regulations.