Conservatories come in many shapes and sizes, from the compact lean-to designs that perfectly suit smaller homes to the grand, orangery-style constructions that add a real touch of elegance and luxury. No matter what kind of conservatory you have, one of the most important features is the roof. There are three common roof types to choose from: polycarbonate, glass, or tiled. But which is best? And if you're thinking of upgrading your conservatory, which roof option should you choose?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each roof type and how they impact everything from comfort to cost. Plus, we’ll discuss the options for upgrading your existing roof, including how our roof insulation services can transform your space.
Polycarbonate conservatory roofs
What are polycarbonate roofs?
Polycarbonate is a lightweight, plastic-based material often used in conservatories. Typically made of multi-wall sheets, polycarbonate roofs are translucent, allowing light to filter into the room while providing a basic level of insulation. It’s a popular choice for those on a budget, as it's one of the most affordable roofing options.
Benefits of polycarbonate roofs
One of the main advantages of polycarbonate roofs is cost. They're significantly cheaper than glass or tiled alternatives, making them a great choice if you’re looking for a quick and affordable installation. Polycarbonate is also light, reducing the load on your conservatory structure, and it’s fairly durable for the price, offering some resistance to impact and weather.
Another benefit is the amount of natural light they allow into the conservatory. While not as clear as glass, polycarbonate roofs still allow plenty of sunlight, keeping your space bright.
Potential drawbacks
However, polycarbonate roofs come with some significant drawbacks. Firstly, they provide poor insulation, meaning your conservatory will likely be freezing in the winter and sweltering in the summer. They’re also prone to noise issues, particularly during heavy rain, and can degrade over time due to UV exposure, becoming discoloured or brittle.
If you want your conservatory to be a usable year-round space, polycarbonate may not offer the best thermal performance, and you may find yourself needing additional insulation to compensate for heat loss.
Glass conservatory roofs
What are glass roofs?
Glass roofs are a common choice for modern conservatories, offering a sleek and transparent option that allows maximum natural light into the space. High-performance double or triple glazing is often used to improve thermal efficiency while still maintaining that open, airy feel that glass offers.
Benefits of glass roofs
Aesthetically, glass roofs are hard to beat. They give a contemporary look to your conservatory and create a bright, spacious atmosphere. Modern glazing technology has improved significantly, with options for self-cleaning glass, UV filters, and solar control coatings that prevent excessive heat build-up during the summer.
Glass also offers better insulation than polycarbonate, especially if double or triple-glazed, helping keep the conservatory more temperate during the colder months. For many homeowners, the visual appeal and improved energy efficiency make glass roofs a popular choice.
Potential drawbacks
While glass roofs offer better insulation than polycarbonate, they still don’t compare to the thermal performance of a solid roof. Even with advanced glazing, glass can struggle to retain heat in winter or prevent overheating in summer. Additionally, glass roofs can be expensive, both to install and maintain. They can also be prone to glare and condensation, depending on the quality of the glazing and ventilation in your conservatory. The top-end, UV-efficient triple-glazed panes are extremely expensive, and heavy too.
Tiled conservatory roofs
What are tiled roofs?
Tiled conservatory roofs are made of lightweight roofing materials such as slate or composite tiles. Unlike polycarbonate and glass, tiled roofs are opaque, offering a more solid and traditional roofing option.
Benefits of tiled roofs
When it comes to insulation, tiled roofs are unmatched. They can drastically reduce heat loss during winter and prevent your conservatory from overheating in the summer, making the space usable year-round. Tiled roofs also offer a quieter environment, eliminating the noise issues associated with polycarbonate or glass roofs during heavy rain or wind.
In terms of aesthetics, tiled roofs can blend seamlessly with the rest of your home, giving your conservatory the appearance of a natural extension rather than a separate structure. Many homeowners find that a tiled roof adds value to their property due to its durability and enhanced energy efficiency.
Potential drawbacks
The main downside to a tiled roof is that it blocks out natural light. However, skylights can be added, and internal ceiling insulation can be finished in fresh plaster to make the conservatory look and feel like a brand new room - not an add-on to the home.
Upgrading your conservatory roof
If you’re not ready for a full roof replacement, or simply want to improve the comfort of your conservatory, there are ways to upgrade your current roof. One of the best solutions is to install internal conservatory ceiling insulation. This can drastically reduce the amount of heat lost through polycarbonate or glass roofs, creating a more stable and comfortable environment.
For those looking to improve the external appearance as well, a tiled conservatory roof can be a game-changer. Not only does it enhance the look of your conservatory, but it also significantly improves thermal performance, allowing you to enjoy your conservatory throughout the year without worrying about extreme temperatures.
Why choose Sagars’ conservatory roof insulation?
At Sagars, we offer 5-star rated conservatory roof insulation solutions to help transform your space. Our insulation systems work by lining your existing polycarbonate or glass roof from the inside, dramatically improving thermal efficiency and creating a more comfortable living space.
We also offer the EcoSlate365 system, a lightweight tiled conservatory roof replacement that combines exceptional insulation with a sleek, modern appearance. EcoSlate365 is designed to withstand the very worst of British weather while reducing energy costs and enhancing the overall comfort of your conservatory.
Whether you’re looking to hide your polycarbonate roof with internal insulation or transform the entire structure with a tiled roof, we’re here to help. Our expert team will guide you through the process, ensuring your conservatory becomes a space you can enjoy all year round.
Learn more by speaking to our friendly family team today. We look forward to speaking to you and transforming your space!
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