Which Conservatory Roofs Are Right For You?
A conservatory's roof may be damaged or even deteriorate over time. This can affect your conservatory's ability to provide the level of insulation and practicality that you need.
Building control regulations must be adhered to if you decide to replace your conservatory roof. This will require a thorough review of the frame and structure to make sure it can withstand the any weight of the new solid roof.
Polycarbonate
A polycarbonate conservatory roof is a cost-effective roofing option that is widely used in homes. It has a decent lifespan and requires little maintenance, but it leaves much to be wanted in regards to thermal insulation. Polycarbonate also allows in too much light and can get extremely hot during the summer months, particularly when used for an outdoor space that is used primarily for entertaining.
A better alternative is a conservatory roof replacement constructed of glass or tiles. These materials are superior to polycarbonate sheets for insulation and have a great visual appeal. A glass roof is ideal for any season and can transform your conservatory into an integral part of your home that is warm and cozy all year long.
Glass and tiled conservatory roofs are available in a wide range of colours, styles and finishes that can match your existing house's aesthetic and blend in seamlessly. You can opt for a hybrid roof like Ultraframe's Livinroof which blends glazed and solid sections to create an elegant look.
Glass roofs provide a view of the sky, the surrounding area and skyline which is unobstructed. This allows a lot of natural light to fill your conservatory, creating an airy feel. It's also a great choice for homeowners who wish to install solar panels for their conservatories.
A conservatory roof that is glazed, on the other hand is extremely durable. It can withstand extreme winds, snowfalls and hailstones with no issues. It can be fitted with an insulated pelmet which creates a real room feeling and improves the acoustics inside your conservatory.
A glazed conservatory roof is better suited to all seasons and has an outstanding thermal insulation that can make it 3-4 times more energy-efficient than polycarbonate. This can cut your energy costs significantly and help you create a more sustainable conservatory. Furthermore, a roof that is glazed is more resilient to wear and tear and requires very little maintenance, saving you money over the course of time. The installation process is quick and simple 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 sheet of polycarbonate.
Tiles
If your conservatory is proving too hot in the summer and cold in winter, or is beginning to display signs of wear and tear, it's time to consider upgrading your roofing system. Removing the roof of your conservatory will improve the efficiency of your home, reduce the noise and create a comfortable space that you will be able to relax in.
With a stunning range of lightweight and durable tiles and slates available, you can design your new solid roof conservatory to perfectly suit your home. You can also select from a range of colors to match the frames and windows in your home to create a unique space.
Tiled conservatory roofs are made to replace old glass or polycarbonate ones offering a more thermally efficient option that is 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 issue of condensation and overheating that's so common with 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 cut down on the amount of energy required to heat your conservatory by as much as 50 percent. This is because they can hold heat and stop it escaping, unlike older roof types.
A new conservatory roof will also boost the value of your home because your family and friends will be able to use it more. It is also a great opportunity to add a touch luxury to your home as you will be proud to display it to your guests.
Although conservatory roofs made of tile offer high levels of weather resistance and durability however, they must be maintained and regularly checked. This is because they are susceptible to damage caused by extreme weather conditions and dirt can build up quickly. However, if you work with a specialist conservatory roofing firm, you can be sure that your solid roof conservatory will remain at the highest quality for years to be.
Glass
The most sought-after option for conservatory roof replacement, glass roofs are able to offer you a wide range of advantages. They provide a beautiful and classic appearance, while letting plenty of natural light into your space and allowing you enjoy a more bright space. Glass roofs let you take in stunning views of the outdoors - perfect for stargazing and sipping hot chocolate in winter.
Glass conservatory roofs are available in a range of tints to ensure that you get the perfect look and feel for your conservatory. You can even choose a self-cleaning option that makes use of the sun's rays to dissolve dirt and grime. You'll save time by not having to clean your conservatory frequently.
You can also choose a smart glass roof to increase your home's thermal efficiency. This option has an increased U value than standard glass, which helps keep your home warm and cozy in winter. 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 consists of sections of solid materials alongside panels of glass that allow you to benefit from both kinds of material. This helps you to balance temperature control and maintain a bright and open space. Hybrid conservatory roofs can be more expensive, but their flexibility and durability makes them worth the investment.
Polycarbonate is a low-cost alternative for conservatory roof replacement but it doesn't offer as much insulation as other options. It is also fragile and may require periodic repairs. If you opt for a roofing material made of polycarbonate, be sure to buy premium panels. Also, put up a sturdy frame to prevent damage.
Composite
Typically made from polycarbonate sheets with air gaps in the middle it allows plenty of light and is a cost-effective option. However it's not as efficient as other roofs and can be susceptible to heat loss during the winter. Polycarbonate is also prone to condensation and the need for frequent repairs.
With Conservatory Window Repairs exeter is, however, possible to improve your conservatory with a new glass or tiled roof, which will provide more insulation as well as numerous benefits. This includes:
Thermal efficiency can be improved
Replace your old conservatory with a contemporary design to reduce energy usage and keep your home comfortable throughout the year.
A new roof could give a completely new dimension to a garden room or sunroom. For instance glass roofs let you enjoy the outdoors even if the weather isn't great. You can also select features such as solar control glass, self-cleaning, and low-emissivity coatings that help to cut down on glare and increase the amount of natural light entering your space.
They're well-known due to their excellent option for insulation, and can be used in conjunction with a variety of architectural styles. They are available in a range of colours and come with a warranty that lasts for up to 30 years. They can be a challenge and susceptible to moss, and regular maintenance and cleaning is necessary.
Solid roofs, like Ultraroof by Ultraframe are a fantastic alternative to polycarbonate or tiled roofs. These roofs are made from a thick layer of XPS insulation foam that is encased with premium aluminum. This system is engineered with NASA-calibrated technology. It will help reduce your home's energy consumption while keeping it warm during winter and cool during summer.
Solid roofs will require more support than other roof types. This will require a ceiling finish as well as in some cases, replacement windows to support the weight. Additionally, changing from polycarbonate sheets to a solid roof is considered as a material change and must be in line with building regulations.