Conservatory roof replacement

Many homeowners are at the mercy of the weather when it comes to enjoying their conservatory – and the reason is typically the roof.

The design of traditional roofs means many conservatories become too cold in the winter and too warm in the summer. The result is an unenjoyable and potentially even unusable room that ends up causing a lot of grief.

However, there is a solution. Replacing an outdated or low-quality roof with a modern, thermally efficient alternative can transform a conservatory into a year-round space.

Is it worth replacing my conservatory roof?

A lot of homeowners are reluctant to replace their conservatory roof for fear of being left with the same problems. However, new techniques and technology mean the issues associated with older conservatory roofs have been resolved. So if you’re considering replacing your conservatory roof but are unsure whether to do so, here are some of the advantages.

Year round use

Installing a glass or tiled roof will put an end to erratic temperatures and transform the conservatory into a space to be enjoyed in any weather. Solid roofing is the best performer for thermal efficiency, while glass roofing now comes in double and triple glazing, which is better able to regulate temperature changes.

More energy efficient

A glass or tiled roof is more efficient at retaining heat, reducing a property’s overall energy consumption and, in turn, a homeowner’s energy bills.

Added value to the home

An energy-efficient and well-insulated conservatory will increase the value of a home by a considerable amount compared to a space that can rarely be used.

Improved sound acoustics

Traditional conservatory roofing has poor acoustics. Rainfall or similarly harsh conditions can make the room loud and disruptive. Glass or tiled roofs have better sound insulation and will ‘drown’ out the noise of wet weather, enabling you to use it unhindered.

Reduced glare

Sun glare can be a real problem in a conservatory – be it the blinding nature of the light or the discolouration of furniture due to UV rays. A new roof will eliminate the annoyance of the former and the risk of the latter.

How can I make my conservatory more energy efficient?

If a conservatory roof replacement is not an option, there are other ways you can combat temperature changes.

Insulate the ceiling

Plaster finish conservatory ceiling insulation is the next best option after replacing your roof (if not arguably as good).

The insulating panels are installed inside the existing conservatory roof meaning there is no removal of the original polycarbonate or glass roof. The panels consist of a thermally efficient material designed to retain heat in the winter and keep the room cool in the winter.

Despite installing an additional layer of material, the original shape and height of the ceiling are maintained, meaning the conservatory’s structure will be changed very little, if at all.

Consider glazing

Double-glazed glass has a special coating that reflects heat back into the room, whilst also allowing heat in from the sun. Moreover, it can help to prevent draughts due to the cushion of air between the panes of glass which acts as an insulator.

You can get different types of double and triple glazing to suit varying budgets, which provide far better insulation than the single glazing used for traditional conservatories.

Use draft excluders

A draft excluder is placed around a door or window frame and is used to slow heat loss and prevent cold draughts. The use of a draft excluder will help to keep your conservatory considerably warmer.

Alternatively, check for insulation gaps or poorly fitted exclusion points and have these replaced or repaired. This will help to regulate the temperature, but will not be as effective as a roof replacement.

Install window coverings

A considerable amount of heat is lost through windows. The addition of an insulating window covering (be it blinds, shades or curtains) can reduce energy loss and consumption by keeping the heat in and the cold out.

Be careful not to purchase standard coverings without checking the insulating nature of the product, as not every covering is designed to be energy efficient.

Invest in heating

Portable heaters are a cheap, convenient and easy way to heat a cold conservatory in the winter months. And in the summer, you can simply swap them out for a fan.

Another option is to install air conditioning. This will provide a solution in both the winter and the summer but will be more costly and disruptive to organise.

Consider flooring

It’s not just the roof and windows that need to be sufficiently insulated in a conservatory to guarantee optimal conditions. The conservatory’s floor or base also plays a big role in energy efficiency. Installing under-floor heating, or even using a warm floor covering like a carpet or rug, can help to keep the room warmer during the winter months.

If you’re considering replacing your conservatory roof, read our conservatory roof replacement cost guide for more information.

To get quotes from roofers near you – post a job now.