Comparing Conservatory Roof Options: Glass vs. Polycarbonate vs Tiled

Research shows around 80% of heat is lost through your conservatory roof due to inadequate insulation. By upgrading your conservatory roof, you could save up to £200 on utility bills!  

An old or poorly insulated roof can lead to excessive heat in summer, cold in winter, and leaks during rain, making the conservatory unusable for most of the year. With the UK’s unpredictable weather, finding the perfect conservatory roof couldn’t be more important.

How to Find the Best Conservatory Roof Replacement 

When considering a conservatory roof replacement, the choice of material plays a key role in determining the functionality, aesthetics and longevity of your conservatory. 

The three most popular materials are polycarbonate, glass, and tiled roofs, each with its unique set of features. 

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which is the best option for your conservatory:

Polycarbonate Roofs

Pros:

✓ Affordability: Polycarbonate roofs are the most cost-effective option, making them ideal for budget-conscious homeowners.

✓ Lightweight: Their light weight makes them easy to install and suitable for conservatories with weaker structures.

✓ Versatility: Available in various tints and finishes, they can be tailored to different conservatory styles.

Cons:

X Poor Insulation: They offer minimal insulation, leading to higher energy costs in maintaining a comfortable temperature.

X Noise: Polycarbonate roofs can be noisy during rain or hail.

X Aesthetics and Durability: They may yellow over time and generally have a less polished look compared to glass or tiles.

While polycarbonate roofs are budget-friendly, they offer limited benefits.

Glass Roofs

Pros:

✓ Aesthetic Appeal: Glass roofs offer a sleek, modern look and maximise natural light.

✓ Improved Insulation: Modern glass roofs come with better insulation properties, including options for UV protection and self-cleaning coatings.

✓ Durability: High-quality glass roofs are long-lasting and less prone to damage.

Cons:

X Cost: They are more expensive than polycarbonate roofs, both in terms of initial installation and potential energy costs for heating or cooling.

X Weight: Glass is heavier, requiring a stronger conservatory structure.

Glass roofs provide a traditional conservatory feel but can struggle with temperature regulation.

Tiled Roofs

Pros:

✓ Superior Insulation: Tiled roofs provide excellent thermal insulation, making your conservatory energy-efficient and comfortable year-round.

✓ Year-Round Comfort: With better insulation, you can transform your conservatory into a comfortable living space throughout the year, regardless of the weather outside.

✓ Reduce Your Energy Bills: By upgrading your conservatory roof, you could save up to £200 on utility bills! 

✓ Increase Property Value: A well-maintained and updated conservatory can add up to 5% to your property’s value.

✓ Style: They offer a traditional, classic aesthetic and can be matched with your home’s existing roof.

✓ Low Maintenance: Tiled roofs require minimal upkeep and are highly durable.

Cons:

X Cost: Typically the most expensive option among the three. Although savings can be made in the long run on utility bills and increased property values. 

X Natural Light: They reduce the amount of natural light entering the conservatory.

X Weight: Like glass, tiles are heavy and may require additional structural support.

Solid tiled roofs offer practicality and aesthetic appeal, especially when combined with glass features for light and temperature control, making them an excellent choice for a versatile and efficient conservatory roof replacement.

Which is the Best Conservatory Roof Replacement?

The “best” material depends on your specific needs and preferences:

Budget-Friendly: Choose polycarbonate if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution and are willing to compromise on insulation and noise.

Natural Light and Modern Look: For natural light and aesthetics, choose glass.

Energy Efficiency and Traditional Appeal: Go for tiled roofs if your focus is on superior insulation, year-round comfort and low maintenance. While more expensive than polycarbonate and glass roofs, tiled roofs offer long-term savings on utility bills and have the potential to boost your property’s value.

Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, so the ideal choice varies based on individual requirements, conservatory style, and budget considerations.

The SupaLite Tiled Roof 

We are the lead installer of the SupaLite Tiled Roof. The state-of-the-art technology used to create The SupaLite Tiled Roof means its benefits are superior. 

Here’s what makes it a standout choice for your conservatory: 

Exceptional Insulation: 185mm of moisture-resistant insulation, ensures your conservatory is warm, dry and comfortable regardless of the weather.

Advanced Waterproofing: We incorporate a superior waterproof membrane, providing unparalleled defence against rain, snow and other elements.

Tailored Roofing Choices: Select from our ExtraLight tile or slate options, offering a roof that’s not just sturdy but also works with your style. 

Unmatched Thermal Efficiency: The SupaLite Tiled Roof boasts a standard U-value of 0.15. The robust yet lightweight aluminium frame ensures excellent insulation.

Enhanced Natural Lighting: Add the SkyVista glass panel to flood your conservatory with natural light.

Conservatory Roof Transformations 

Before Transformation:

Style: Lean-to conservatory.

Roofing: Made of polycarbonate materials.

Size: A small and confined space.

Insulation: Poor, leading to a cool interior.

Usability: Often too cold to be comfortably used.

After Transformation:

Style: Upgraded to a gable end conservatory.

Ceilings: High and vaulted, enhancing the sense of space.

Ambiance: Now spacious, creating an inviting and enjoyable area.

Insulation: Significantly improved, maintaining warmth effectively.

Comfort: Heat is well-retained, making it usable throughout the year.

Need more inspiration? Check out our recent projects  

Understanding Building Regulations for Your Conservatory

When considering a solid roof conservatory, it’s crucial to understand the role of planning permissions based on various factors, including the size, scope and potential environmental impact of your project.

Small-Scale Conservatories:

Smaller conservatories that follow specific guidelines such as not exceeding certain height and size limits, generally fall under ‘permitted development’. Planning permission is generally not required for these conservatories, making the process more straightforward.

Larger Conservatories:

Planning permission may be needed if your conservatory is larger or alters the existing structure’s appearance significantly or affects neighbouring properties, you will likely need planning permission.

It’s essential to consult with your local planning authority. Regulations can vary depending on your location and the unique aspects of your project.

Special Cases – Heritage and Conservation Areas

If your property is heritage-listed or located in a conservation area, there are usually more strict regulations to follow. In these scenarios, obtaining permission can be more complex, and specific conservation guidelines may need to be followed.

Let us take the stress out of your conservatory renovation, we can handle all building regulation applications to give you peace of mind. 

For further information read: A Guide to Building Regulations for Your Conservatory 

Blogs of Interest:

Insulating your conservatory roof: A Guide 

10 Small Extension Ideas 

Lightweight Roofing Solutions is now a Member of Installsure! 

FAQs

What is the most energy-efficient conservatory roof? 

When it comes to efficiency in conservatory roofing, solid roofs emerge as the top choice. Their superior insulation and temperature regulation capabilities are key to reducing energy consumption, leading to lower energy bills. A prime example of this efficiency is the SupaLite Tiled Roof system, renowned for its impressively low U-value of just 0.15. This advanced roofing technology enhances the comfort of your conservatory and contributes to a more energy-efficient home.

How long does it take to install a conservatory roof?

Wondering about the duration required to replace a conservatory roof? Generally, this process can vary from one to three weeks, depending on the specific details and complexity of your installation. 

We prioritise your convenience, so we provide you with a tailored estimated timeframe before we begin the work, ensuring it fits around your schedule.

What is the most energy-efficient conservatory roof? 

The SupaLite Tiled Roof system offers unmatched thermal efficiency. With a standard U-value of 0.15, the robust yet lightweight aluminium frame ensures excellent insulation.