Which Conservatory Roofs Are Right For You?
A conservatory's roof may be damaged or even deteriorate over time. This can impact the ability of your conservatory's roof to provide the space you require with the insulation and practicality it requires.
Building control regulations must be followed if you choose to replace the conservatory roof. This will involve an in-depth inspection of the frame and structure to ensure that it is able to support the weight of the new solid roof.
Polycarbonate
A polycarbonate conservatory roof is a cost-effective roofing solution that is popular in many homes. It is durable and requires little maintenance but its thermal insulation leaves a lot to be desired. Polycarbonate also allows too much sunlight and become unbearably warm during the summer. This is particularly the case if it is used to construct a conservatory for entertaining.
A better alternative is a replacement conservatory roof constructed of glass or tiles. These materials are superior to polycarbonate sheets in terms of insulation, and they have a fantastic visual appeal. A glazed roof can be used during all seasons and can transform your conservatory to a comfortable and warm space.
Glass and tiled conservatory roofs come in a wide variety of styles, colours and finishes that can match the style of your home and blend in seamlessly. You can even opt for a hybrid system like Ultraframe's Livinroof that combines both solid and glazed sections for an elegant look.
The best thing about glass roofs is that it provides unobstructed views of the sky and surroundings and floods your conservatory with sunlight and allowing for a spacious feel. It's an excellent option for homeowners who wish to put solar panels in their conservatory.
In comparison, a glass conservatory roof is extremely durable and can withstand high winds, snowfall and hailstones with ease. It can also be fitted with a custom insulated pelmet to create an inviting, real-life feel and improve the acoustics of your conservatory.
A glazed conservatory is a better choice for all seasons, and it provides a higher level of thermal insulation. It is 3-4 times more efficient than polycarbonate. This can reduce your energy costs by a significant amount and help you make your conservatory more eco-friendly. Moreover, a glazed roof is more resistant to environmental wear-and-tear and requires little maintenance, which can save you money over the course of time. Installation is quick and easy, and only requires removing the existing glazing bars and a few screws, and an abrasive mallet. The new double-glazed panel is placed over the existing polycarbonate sheet.
Tiles
If your conservatory is proving too hot in the summer and cold in the winter, or if it's showing signs of wear and tear, then it might be the time to upgrade your roofing system. The replacement of the roof in your conservatory will increase the efficiency of your energy, cut down on the noise and create a comfortable space in which you'll be able to relax in.
With a stunning array of durable and lightweight slates and tiles, you can design your new solid roof conservatory to perfectly fit your home. In addition you can select from a wide range of stunning shades to match the frames and windows you already have, creating a space that's uniquely yours.
Tiled conservatory roofing is designed to replace old glass and polycarbonate roofs, offering a more energy-efficient option that's perfect for modern homes. Their impressive u-values are up to 0.15 W/m2K, and they come with a breathable membrane, which eliminates the risk of overheating and condensation that's so common with polycarbonate conservatory roofs.
They also make your conservatory appear more like an extension of your house instead of a glazed area that is separate. They can reduce the amount of energy required to heat your conservatory by up 50%. This is because they can hold heat and stop it escaping, unlike older roofing styles.
Another benefit of replacing your conservatory roof is that it can enhance the value of your property because it will be an area that is more suitable for your family and guests. It's also a great method to add some luxury as it will be a space that you'll be proud to show off to guests.
Roofs made of tile are durable and weather resistant, but 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. But, if you work with a specialist conservatory roofing company, you can ensure that your solid roof conservatory will be of the highest quality for years to come.
Glass
Glass roofs are the most well-known option for conservatory roof replacement. They provide a range of advantages. They offer a stunning and classic look, whilst letting plenty of sunlight into your space which allows you enjoy a more bright room. Glass roofs also allow you to take in spectacular views of the outside perfect for night-time stargazing and sipping a cup of hot chocolate during the winter!
Glass conservatory roofs come in a variety of tints so you can get the appearance and feel you want for your conservatory. You can select self-cleaning options that makes use of the sun's light to dissolve dirt. You can save time by not having to clean your conservatory regularly.
You can also consider smart roofing to increase the 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 a self-cleaning coating and a warm edge technology to further enhance its energy-efficiency capabilities.
Another option is a hybrid conservatory roof. This kind of roof blends sections of solid material with glass panels to provide you with the best of both worlds. This allows you to maintain an open, bright space while ensuring a comfortable temperature. Hybrid roofs are more expensive than other kinds of conservatory roofs, but they're worth the investment in terms of their flexibility and durability.
Polycarbonate is a cheap conservatory roof choice, but doesn't provide the same amount of insulation as other options. It is also fragile and will need to be repaired regularly. If you decide to use a polycarbonate roofing material, be sure to buy high-quality panels. Also, install an extremely sturdy frame to avoid damage.
Composite
This roof type is typically composed of polycarbonate sheets with an air gap in the middle. It allows in lots of light and is an affordable option. It's not as efficient as other options and may be prone to heat loss in the winter. Polycarbonate is also susceptible to condensation, which can result in frequent repairs.
It is possible with the right installer, to upgrade your conservatory by putting on a new glass roof or tiled roofing that will offer greater insulation and a host of advantages. These include:
Improved thermal efficiency
Removing your old conservatory roof with a brand new design helps to reduce your energy costs and maintain your home at a comfortable temperature all year round.
A new roof will also add a new dimension to your garden room or sunroom. Glass roofs for instance, will let you enjoy the outdoors even in severe weather. You can also choose features like solar control glass, self-cleaning, and low-emissivity coatings that help to reduce reflections and increase the amount of natural light entering your home.
Tiled roofs are a popular choice because they provide excellent insulation and are a great choice for a variety of architectural styles. Tiled roofs are available in a variety of colors and come with a 30-year warranty. They can be a challenge and prone to moss, so regular maintenance and cleaning is essential.
Solid roofs, such as Ultraroof by Ultraframe are a great alternative to tiled or polycarbonate roofs. They are constructed of a thick layer XPS insulation foam encased by premium aluminum. This system was developed using NASA-calibrated technologies and can reduce the power consumption of your home, while keeping it cool during summer and warm in winter.
Solid roofs are the most heavy option, so they'll require more support from the walls of your existing conservatory than other types of roofs. This will require a ceiling finishing and, in certain instances, replacement windows to help support the weight. A solid roof is created by changing from a polycarbonate roof to a solid sheet. gillingham Conservatory Repairs is a change in material and must meet the building regulations.