.png)
When you’re looking to expand your living space without going down the route of a costly, time-consuming brand-new extension, your existing conservatory can be a great place to focus some time and money.
Many of us are stuck with tired, poorly insulated conservatories that either overheat in summer or feel like iceboxes in winter.
If that’s you, then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of upgrading your roof from outdated glass or polycarbonate, before looking at three possible ways to tackle a replacement - ranging from the cheapest, like-for-like swaps to the premium approach of a fully rebuilt roof, and finally our middle-ground solution that balances efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Let’s dive right in.
The benefits of replacing an old conservatory roof
Replacing your conservatory roof with a solid roof can make an enormous difference to the comfort and functionality of the space. Traditional polycarbonate panels often fail to insulate effectively, resulting in sweltering temperatures during sunny spells and Arctic conditions throughout the winter. Glass is more aesthetically pleasing than polycarbonate but can still lead to issues with glare and condensation.
A solid roof, on the other hand, helps regulate internal temperatures, reducing the need for constant heating in winter or tedious fiddling with fans during the hotter months. It also improves the aesthetic appeal of your conservatory, creating a visually seamless extension of your home.
Unlike flimsy or worn-out materials, a solid roof feels sturdy and private, helping you make full use of the space all year round - whether for lounging, dining, or even working from home.
The cheapest way to replace a conservatory roof: your options
So we know the benefits of a solid conservatory roof, but which approach is the best to go down? Which is the most affordable but also delivers the best lasting benefits?
1. Like-for-like replacement (Glass or polycarbonate)
If your priority is simply cost, replacing your existing roof panels with similar materials (like-for-like glass or polycarbonate) is usually going to be the cheapest route. It uses your existing framework, doesn’t typically involve building regulations, and you can swap in new panels relatively quickly.
However, while this is the least expensive option, you won’t see a dramatic improvement in insulation or aesthetics. If you’ve been frustrated with the heat, glare, or condensation issues of your current roof, simply upgrading it with fresh but similar materials may not solve those longstanding problems.
As we know from above, solid conservatory roofs offer numerous benefits and will make your conservatory feel more like the true extension of your home… without the huge builder and material fees!
2. Brand-new roof structure
For homeowners who want a fully transformative solution - both inside and out - then a brand-new roof structure can be built from scratch. By taking down the original roof and replacing it with a solid tiled roof, you’re effectively turning your conservatory into a high-quality extension. This approach can yield incredible results: outstanding insulation, a modern look, and even the chance to tailor the design to match the rest of your property.
Of course, this route tends to be the most expensive. You might need planning permission or building control sign-off, depending on the extent of the work. It also takes more time to complete, which can be inconvenient if you’re eager to use the space.
While the end result is undeniably impressive, it may not be the right choice for those seeking a budget-friendly fix.
3. EcoSlate365: the best of both worlds
Here at Sagars, we believe there’s a middle ground that balances cost, speed of installation, and quality results: EcoSlate365. Rather than tearing down your entire roof, we utilise your conservatory’s existing structure. We apply our lightweight, slate-effect tiles on the exterior, then install advanced internal insulation to recreate the look and feel of a proper extension - without the hefty price tag.
EcoSlate365 offers excellent thermal performance and is robust enough to last for decades, yet it’s lightweight, so your original conservatory framework typically doesn’t need extra structural reinforcements. This saves both time and money while still delivering the comfort and visual benefits of a solid roof. You’ll also receive our cast-iron guarantee, ensuring peace of mind should any issues arise.
Want to transform your conservatory?
We understand that cost can be a deciding factor when you’re looking at replacing your conservatory roof. If you’re weighing up your options, we’d be delighted to chat through what’s best for your home and budget.
As a family-run business, we’re dedicated to offering transparent, tailored advice that helps you make the right call. We can even arrange a free survey to see how our solid roof solutions could transform your conservatory, and we have interest-free finance options available too if you’d like to go ahead.
Get in touch with us today, and let’s start making the most of your conservatory!
