Which Conservatory Roofs Are Right For You?
The roof of a conservatory can become damaged or deteriorate over time. This can impact the ability of your conservatory's roof to provide the space you require, along with the insulation and practicality it requires.
If you decide to replace your conservatory roof the building control regulations have to be adhered to. This will require a thorough examination of the existing frame and structure to ensure it is able to support the any weight of the new solid roof.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate conservatory roofing is a popular and cost-effective choice for a lot of homes. It's durable and requires minimal maintenance however, it leaves a lot to be wanted in terms of thermal insulation. Polycarbonate is also able to let in too much sun and become extremely hot during summer. This is especially true if it's used to construct a conservatory solely for entertaining.
A better option is a conservatory roof replacement made from glass or tiles. Both of these materials provide superior insulation compared to polycarbonate sheets and provide stunning aesthetic appeal. A roof with a glazed finish can be used throughout the seasons and can transform your conservatory to a comfortable and warm space.
Glass and tiled conservatory roofs come in a wide variety of styles, colors and finishes that will complement 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 an elegant look.
The greatest benefit of a glass roof is that it provides unobstructed views of the sky and surrounding area and fills your conservatory with light and allowing for a spacious feel. It's also a great choice for homeowners who wish to install solar panels in their conservatory.
In comparison, a glazed conservatory roof is extremely durable and can withstand high winds, snowfall and hailstones easily. It can also be fitted with a custom insulated pelmet to create a cosy real room feel and improve the acoustics of your conservatory.
A conservatory with a glass roof is more suitable to all seasons, and it provides a higher degree of thermal insulation. It is 3-4 times more efficient than polycarbonate. redbridge Conservatory Roof Repairs can help you lower your energy costs and make your conservatory eco-friendly. Furthermore, a roof that is glazed is more resilient to wear and tear from the environment and requires minimal maintenance, which can save you money over time. Installation is simple and quick, and only requires removal of the glazing bars and a few screws as well as an abrasive mallet. The new double-glazed panels are placed over the existing polycarbonate sheets.
Tiled
If your conservatory is too hot in the summer and cold in the winter, or is showing signs of wear and tear it's time to think about upgrading your roofing system. Replacing the roof of your conservatory will increase energy efficiency, reduce the noise and create a comfortable space that you will want to spend time.
With a stunning selection of lightweight and durable slates and tiles you can build your new solid roof conservatory that will match your home. In addition, you can choose from a range of beautiful colours to complement your existing frames and windows and create a space that's truly unique to you.
Tiled conservatory roofing is designed to replace old glass and polycarbonate roofs, and is an efficient option for energy consumption that's ideal for modern homes. Their impressive u-values can be up to 0.15 W/m2K and are backed by a breathable membrane, eliminating the issue of condensation and overheating that's common with polycarbonate conservatory roofs.
They can also make your conservatory look more like an extension of your house instead of a glass space that is distinct. They can provide up to a 50 percent reduction in the amount of energy your conservatory will require to heat, as they are able to hold in heat and prevent it from escaping like the older roof styles.
Another benefit of replacing your conservatory roof is that it could increase the value of your home, as it will become an area that is more suitable for your family and guests. It's also a great way to add some luxury because it'll be a space that you'll be proud to display to guests.
Tiled conservatory roofs are durable and weatherproof, but they must be regularly inspected and maintained. They are vulnerable to damage from extreme weather conditions and dirt can build up quickly. If you work with a conservatory roofing professional, you can be sure that your solid roof conservatory is maintained to the highest standards for a long time.
Glass
Glass roofs are the most well-known option for conservatory roof replacement. They offer a variety of benefits. They offer a stunning and classic appearance, while letting plenty of natural light into your home which allows you to enjoy a brighter space. Glass roofs allow you to enjoy spectacular views of the outdoors - perfect for stargazing or sipping hot chocolate during winter.
Glass conservatory roofs come in a range of tints to ensure that you get the perfect appearance and feel for your conservatory. You can select an option for self-cleaning that makes use of the sun's light to remove dirt. This means that you will not have the need for regular cleaning, making your conservatory an area you can use all year long.
You can also choose an intelligent glass roof to boost your home's thermal efficiency. This type of roof has an increased U-value than standard glass, ensuring you're keeping your home warm and cozy throughout the winter months. It also comes with a warm edge technology as well as a self-cleaning surface to increase its energy efficiency.
Another alternative is a hybrid conservatory roof. This kind of roof blends sections of solid materials and glass panels to provide you with the best of both worlds. This allows you to achieve temperature control and maintain the space as bright and open. Hybrid roofs are more expensive than other varieties of conservatory roofs, but they're worth it for their flexibility and durability.
Polycarbonate is a cost-effective alternative for conservatory roof replacement however, it's not the same level of insulation as other options. It can also be quite fragile and may require periodic repairs. If you opt for polycarbonate roofing materials, be sure to buy top-quality panels. Also, make sure to install an extremely sturdy frame to avoid damage.
Composite
Typically, they are made of polycarbonate sheets that have an air gap in the centre, this roof type allows plenty of light and is a cost-effective choice. However it's not as efficient as other options and can be susceptible to heat loss during the winter. Polycarbonate is also susceptible to condensation, which could cause frequent repairs.
It is possible with the right contractor to improve your conservatory by putting on a new glass roof or tiled roof that will offer more insulation and a range of advantages. These include:
Improved thermal efficiency
Replace your old conservatory with a new design to save energy and ensure your home is comfortable throughout the year.
A new roof can give a completely new dimension to your garden room or sunroom. A glass roof for instance, will let you enjoy the outdoors even in severe weather. You can also choose features such as solar control glass, low-emissivity and self-cleaning coatings that reduce the glare.
Tiled roofs are a very popular choice because they provide excellent insulation and are a perfect choice for a variety of architectural styles. They're available in a variety of colours and come with a warranty of up to 30 years. However, they are difficult to clean and are susceptible to algae and moss which is why regular maintenance is a must.
Solid roofs, such as Ultraroof by Ultraframe, are a great alternative to tiled or polycarbonate roofs. These roofs are made from a thick layer XPS insulation foam, which is encased in premium aluminum. This system was designed with NASA-calibrated technology and can cut down on the energy consumption of your home while keeping it cool in the summer and warm in winter.
Solid roofs are the most heavy option, which means they'll require more support from the walls of your existing conservatory than other roof types. This will require a ceiling finishing and, in some instances replacement windows to support the weight. A solid roof is created by changing from the polycarbonate roof to a solid sheet. This is a material change that must be in compliance with the building regulations.