Conservatory roof replacement
Most conservatory roofs we are asked about are polycarbonate or old glass roofs that are too hot in summer, too cold in winter and starting to leak. Replacing the roof with a solid, insulated tiled roof can turn a conservatory into a room you use all year. It is building work: the frames and base have to be checked to carry the weight, and a solid roof brings the conservatory under the Building Regulations.
Replace or repair?
A leak at a single glazing bar or a cracked panel can be repaired. If the polycarbonate has gone brittle and discoloured, the seals have failed along several bars, or the room is unusable for half the year, replacing the roof is usually the better spend.
What a solid conservatory roof involves
- A survey of the frames, base and walls to check they can carry a heavier roof
- Strengthening where needed, such as a structural ring beam or extra posts
- Removing the old polycarbonate or glass roof and its glazing bars
- A new insulated timber or framed roof structure with a breathable membrane
- Lightweight roof tiles or slates chosen to suit the house
- New guttering, and an internal plastered ceiling ready for lights
Building Regulations and planning
A conservatory with a translucent roof is usually exempt from the Building Regulations. Replace that roof with a solid one and it generally stops being exempt, so the new roof needs Building Regulations approval covering the structure, insulation and ventilation, through the council's building control or an approved inspector. This matters when you sell the house.
Planning permission is not usually needed to change the roof of an existing conservatory that was itself permitted development, but listed buildings, conservation areas and conservatories that were built with planning conditions can be different. Check with the council first if any of those apply.
Is your conservatory suitable?
Not every conservatory can take a solid roof. Old frames that are already out of square, a base with no proper foundation, or a lean-to set against a wall that cannot take a fixing may rule it out or add to the cost. We check before we quote and tell you plainly if yours is not suitable.
Conservatory roofs: questions people ask
Do I need building regulations for a tiled conservatory roof?
Generally, yes. Replacing a translucent conservatory roof with a solid one usually takes the conservatory out of its exemption, so the work needs Building Regulations approval for the structure, insulation and ventilation.
Will a solid roof make my conservatory warmer?
An insulated solid roof keeps far more heat in during winter and cuts the summer heat that comes through polycarbonate or glass. How warm the room becomes also depends on the walls, glazing and floor.
Can my existing conservatory frames take a tiled roof?
Some can, many need strengthening. We survey the frames and base before quoting and include any structural work needed.
Can you just replace the polycarbonate sheets?
Yes, if the glazing bars and seals are sound, polycarbonate or glass panels can be replaced like for like. It is a cheaper fix but does not change how warm the room is.
Tell us what is happening with your roof
Call, or send a few details and a photo if you have one. We will come back to you, arrange a visit and give you a written quote before any work starts.