Request Your Free Replacement Roof Quote
Simply fill in your details for your free, no obligation quotation
Q1. How much do conservatory roof replacements cost?
The cost varies as it depends on how large or small the conservatory is, whether you choose a tiled, glass or hybrid roof, and how complex it will be to install. What we can say is that in the main, small roofs cost less than bigger roofing systems.
Q2: What conservatory roof replacements exist and what is their lifespan?
Glass roofs, solid/tiled roofs and classic polycarbonate roofs are the three primary roof types. While a polycarbonate roof only has a lifespan of 10-20 years, glass and solid/tiled doors can endure for 20-40 years when well-fitted and well looked after.
Q3: Is planning permission necessary to upgrade a conservatory roof?
In most cases, a replacement conservatory roof enjoys permitted development status, which gives you automatic planning permission. But be aware that you may need to obtain permission if restrictions are imposed on your house or updating the roof will involve major alteration.
Q4: What is the installation timescale for a replacement conservatory roof?
Some can be finished inside a single day, but the average timescale is about three days. You could be looking at a week if structural alterations are necessary or adverse weather conditions affect the installation.
Thermal and Comfort Warnings
It could prove costly to turn a blind eye to any performance issues that arise just because a roof’s structural appearance looks fine, when what you should do is address it with a solid conservatory roof replacement. Traditional conservatory roofs are prone to offering low-level temperature regulation and insufficient performance.
The more heat that escapes from your conservatory, the more you must rely on your heating to keep the space warm, costing you higher energy bills. Year-round use of a conservatory that’s largely too cold or too hot isn’t feasible.
The Upsides of Replacing a Conservatory Roof
Installation of a new conservatory roof will restore comfortable living conditions, so that whether it’s summer or winter, the indoor climate is manageable. Opposite to older roofing systems, a contemporary covering will always keep the temperature just right.
Tiled roofs instigate far less heat wastage, as you won’t be anywhere near as dependent on your heating, with the reward of cheaper energy. Knowing that you’re assured of comfort will encourage you to get the most out of the space, night and day.
You can access roofing systems that are specifically designed to quieten the amount of noise that reaches a conservatory interior, possessing insulating layers to dampen the sound caused by heavy rainfall and other outdoor sounds. They won’t restrict light transmission and leave the interior feeling dark and uninviting.
Making the switch to a modern roof from a dated glass or polycarbonate roof will also lift your home’s look and improve its valuation.
Types of Conservatory Roof Replacements and Materials
Factors that decide what conservatory roof you buy will include cost, aesthetics and insulation. Modern systems are greatly advanced nowadays and there’s a range of them available.
- Modern glass roofs. Highly intelligent glass is a component of the modern glass roof replacement and it’s how the system manages to achieve such impressive thermal standards. Certain glass roof solutions encompass self-cleaning coatings, and some low-emissivity glazed roofs include self-cleaning glass to uncomplicate roof upkeep.
- Tiled and solid roofs. Solid roofs and the tiled conservatory roof are referenced interchangeably and are both lightweight and extremely insulating. Straightforward to install, they evict draughts from conservatory settings and fill them with warmth. Solid roof conservatories provide top-class energy efficiency.
- Hybrid roofs. A hybrid roof combines solid, insulated panels with glazed facets for a stable solution that succeeds in drawing in abundant light and realising first-rate thermal efficiency.
- Polycarbonate roofs. Polycarbonate roof systems can be bought cheapest, and you can attribute that to the under-par thermal performance they offer in comparison to modern glass and tiled roofs. They may be highly durable, but the major downside is that insulation won’t be up to scratch.
- Roof lanterns. Normally seen in extensions and contemporary conservatories, roof lanterns harness solar-control glazing to fuel optimal comfort. An architectural wonder, they exude more sophistication than traditional roofs and consistently endure for longer.
How Much Will a Conservatory Roof Replacement Set Me Back?
On average, a full new installation will cost 60-70% more than the typical conservatory roof cost, contingent on the demanded specification and what state the current structure is in.
The most affordable options are polycarbonate roofs and then it’s glass roofs next, with tiled roof replacements being the highest-priced solution – a reflection of how excellently they insulate and the high-grade materials they’re made from. Cost will be determined by the size and style of the conservatory, its condition, and how difficult or easy it will be to coordinate the installation.
It may seem daunting to part with significant cash for a glass or tiled roof conservatory but look at the bigger picture and consider how minimal the running costs of it will be.
Planning Permission and Building Regulations
Conservatory roof replacements don’t normally need planning permission to commence, as most satisfy the guidelines to be considered permitted developments.
Permitted development rights are granted to conservatory roof upgrades where there’s no considerable alterations required to the original structure. Exceptions to that exist if the property is in a conservation area or has been designated as a listed building.
Don’t confuse Building Regulations and planning permission as they’re not the same thing. Largely, installation of a solid roof on an already-established conservatory will require submission of a Building Regulation Application because of it altering thermal and structural performance. Whichever replacement conservatory is selected, it must conform to present insulation, ventilation and structural safety guidelines.
The Local Authority Building Control is who governs compliance in England and Wales. Once they endorse the installation, a certificate will be issued, confirming that it meets the requirements, which you should store in a safe place.
How a Conservatory Roof Replacement is Conducted
Two fundamental aspects to a conservatory roof replacement installation are meticulous preparation and the highest possible standard of fitting.
An intense structural assessment is the first task, inspecting the structure’s integrity and checking if there’s any issues, such as damp or condensation.
If the installation is good to go-ahead and the relevant approval has been given, a standard roof replacement generally only takes two to five days to finish. So that the space is kept watertight once the existing roof is removed, most replacements are made secure in a day.
Solid roof systems can take a bit longer to fit – normally about one week – due to the extra work of e.g. plastering and adding lighting.
It needs to be managed by a professional outfit, exactly like Bon Accord Glass, as we know how to sort the structural calculations and weatherproofing (including flashing), and will ensure that it adheres to Building Regulations.
Guidance on Choosing a Supplier
The appointment of a skilled and accomplished installer is a must if you want a roof that delivers elite performance and has an extensive conservatory roof lifespan.
- Trustpilot and Google reviews. Find real-life assessments of potential installers in Trustpilot and Google reviews.
- Roof project case studies. Approach at least three installers and ask for them to provide examples of roof installations done in the past to assess their craftsmanship.
- Accreditations. Check that they’re in possession of vital industry accreditations and their work satisfies industry standards.
- Building regulations. Get confirmation that the replacement conservatory roofs they install comply with Building Regulations so that you receive the necessary certification.
- Structural appraisal process. Gather details of how they will orchestrate the structural appraisal process.
- And don’t forget this. Press them on timescales, what the guarantee includes, what materials will be used and the amount of aftercare offered.
Conclusion
Relative to purchasing a totally new conservatory, updating your existing living space with a conservatory roof replacement is way cheaper and far less hassle. Its effect will be noticeable, as any overheating in summer or coldness in winter will vanish, converting it back into a year-round destination.
Think carefully about your priorities amid selecting a roof lantern, hybrid roof, glass roof or solid roof. Hybrid roofing systems deliver a sublime balance of insulation, durability and light, while solid and glass systems provide reliable temperature control and a wealth of customisation options.
Please, do not be tempted to get a roof installed without checking if it meets planning obligations. Replacement conservatory roofs generally fulfil planning laws, but crucially, they must also conform to Building Regulations, with a certification to prove it.
Bon Accord Glass has been responsible for hundreds of roof replacement projects in Aberdeenshire, so we can be trusted to upgrade your conservatory roof. Discuss it with us at an appointment and afterwards, our fitters will come to your home to inspect your living space and make sure it’s ready for a new high-performance covering.
REQUEST YOUR FREE QUOTE
Simply fill in your details for your free, no obligation quotation, and click "Get Quote"
Want to speak with an Advisor? Give us a call on 01224 588944
Our friendly team will be pleased to help with any questions you may have.