Whether you have a conservatory that has seen better days, then it might be worth considering whether a conservatory roof replacement could improve the space below.
Updating the roof is a great way to modernise an old conservatory, and can help to make the extra square footage comfortable year round.
But how do you know when it's time to replace the roof on your conservatory, what are your options and how much is it likely to cost? We put your questions to the pros to find out.
How do you know when to replace a conservatory roof?
A brilliant conservatory idea for when your existing conservatory is showing signs of wear and tear is to upgrade the roof. But how do you know when it's time?
‘How long your roof lasts after its initial installation can vary based on the material and build quality’, explains Gian-Carlo Grossi, Managing Director, Roofing Megastore.
‘Even so,’ he adds, ‘whilst cleaning and maintenance will help, all roofs will eventually need replacing. In some cases, like with polycarbonate, this could be in as little as ten years.’
There are a few signs you should look out for that will tell you when you might need to replace the roof of your conservatory, as Liam Spencer, owner of Northallerton Glass, explains: 'There are several signs that indicate when a conservatory roof needs to be replaced:
- Leaking — if the roof of your conservatory is leaking, water entering can damage the structure of the conservatory and cause damp.
- Sagging — if the roof of your conservatory is sagging, this can suggest that there is a potential structural weakness somewhere. This weakness can be caused by age, poor construction or through damage from heavy debris.
- Discolouration — a conservatory roof can become discoloured through weathering or moss and algae growth. Even though this may seem like a cosmetic problem, it can suggest potential problems with the roofing material.
- Cracking — if there are cracks in the roof of your conservatory this means that it is not structurally sound. Water can seep through the smallest of cracks, which can cause more issues in the future.
- Mould — a mouldy conservatory roof can lead to structural damage and cause health problems, such as respiratory issues.'
Is a conservatory roof replacement a good idea?
There are a number of ways that replacing a conservatory’s roof will improve its look and feel. Some of these you’ll notice immediately, while others will become more apparent over time.
But altering your conservatory roof can be expensive, so you'll need to weigh up the advantages and drawbacks carefully.
Pros of replacing a conservatory roof
- More comfortable ambient temperature in your conservatory to make it usable year-round
- Improved thermal efficiency of the space can lead to reduced heat loss, which means less reliance on other methods of heating your conservatory
- Reduced condensation, which in turn prevents any potential damage or heath issues caused by unwanted moisture
- Noise reduction is achievable with certain materials, which can help create a peaceful space below
- Banish unwanted glare by swapping a glass roof for a solid alternative
- Boost kerb appeal by replacing a dated roof with a chic modern alternative.
Cons of replacing your conservatory roof
- Can be expensive, especially if you opt for a solid roof
- Structural alterations may be required so that you existing conservatory foundations and walls can support the weight of the new roof
- Natural light may be affected, and could impact other areas of your home
- Planning permission may be required in certain circumstances, which will add to the timeline and overall cost.
What material is best for a conservatory roof replacement?
Opting for a conservatory roof replacement doesn’t necessarily mean you have to replace like-for-like. That's good news for homeowners whose current roof material isn't going to meet their needs moving forward.
Broadly speaking, you have three options to choose from:
- Glass — 'Advances in glass technology mean modern glass roofs can be very thermally-efficient keeping the space cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.’ Additional self-cleaning coatings keep the roof looking good for longer and make maintenance easier,' says Stuart Walker, Head of Living Spaces at Tradelink .
- Polycarbonate — ‘Solid polycarbonate is virtually unbreakable’, explains Gian-Carlo. ‘It offers far greater strength than multi-wall alternatives, though they do not necessarily share in their insulating properties.' But this may be a good option if you are on a tight budget. Gian-Carlo adds: 'Should you be upgrading from an old glass roof, you may also find polycarbonate options that suit your current glazing bars – a great way to save early on.'
- Solid roofs — 'Opting for a lightweight solid roof turns a conservatory into an extension which truly is an all-year-round space to use,' says Stuart. 'Just be careful cutting off light; not so much in the conservatory itself as it will generally have lots of glazing to the sides, but to the room it is connected to. A solid roof also has better soundproofing.' There are lots of options to choose from, including metal and tile, but you'll need to check the existing conservatory base and walls can handle the weight of a solid top.
But in some cases, taking a hybrid approach to materials used is something a lot of people are now opting for.
‘A more contemporary space can be created using hybrid glass and solid panels,’ suggests Stuart. ‘It offers the perfect blend of allowing a light space, with higher thermal efficiency.’
Roof lanterns are one such option as Jonathan Hey, CEO of Aliwood Roof Lanterns explains. 'The benefits of replacing a conservatory roof with a roof lantern are that the room will be a more comfortable temperature year-round, through the use of solar-control glass.’
‘A roof lantern, he continues ‘will also reduce the noise on the roof compared to a traditional conservatory. They are typically more aesthetically pleasing, perform better, don't leak and offer greater longevity.'
How much does a conservatory roof replacement cost?
The cost of replacing your conservatory roof will depend on the material you choose, the size of the roof, and whether any additional structural alterations are required.
In terms of how costs may compare between materials, Liam says: 'To replace a conservatory roof, glass replacements can cost between £3,000 and £5,000, with polycarbonate being slightly cheaper and costing between £2,000 and £4,000. A tiled roof is the most expensive option, potentially costing between £4,000 and £6,000.'
FAQs
Can I replace a conservatory roof myself?
Unlike cleaning a conservatory roof, for a replacement you should always employ the services of an appropriately experienced professional.
The actual installation process itself will vary depending on the design and specific construction of your conservatory. Before any decisions are made on the type of roof and design, have an appraisal of the existing structure. This will inform what roofing options may be available to you — and what materials to opt for.
Working with a professional will also allow them to advise on specific solutions to problems you have with your existing conservatory to ensure you are happy with the final result.
Do you need planning permission to replace a conservatory roof?
In many cases, you won't need planning permission for a conservatory, and that includes replacing the roof.
But this is provided your addition, or alteration, meets the criteria set out under Permitted Development.
However, if your project falls outside of those criteria, or if you live in a house or area where your Permitted Development rights have been removed, limited or your allocation exceeded, then you will need to apply for planning permission.
It's always best to check with your local planning authority before making any changes to make sure you have any necessary consents in place before the work starts.
How long does it take to replace a conservatory roof?
Knowing the timescale of any structural project you’re about to undertake is key. The timescale very much depends on the nature of the work scale of the project.
In many cases, your roof provider will remove the existing roof and add the new one in a single day to ensure the room below is weathertight and secure. Then any finishing touches or additional works will be completed on subsequent days.
‘Assuming your materials have been sourced, a complete replacement can take anywhere between two to five days,' says Roofing Megastore's Gian-Carlo. 'Potentially longer if upgrading to a solid roof and if any plastering or electrical work needs to be undertaken.’
Before you start, make sure you get an approximate timescale agreed with those undertaking the work before the project commences. This way you’ll be sure that things aren’t left insecure and open to the weather any longer than is necessary.
How long will a new roof last?
Bearing in mind the complexity and cost of replacing a conservatory roof you’ll want to be sure that it’s going to be sufficiently long-lasting to make the project worthwhile.
Apart from quality and workmanship, a roof’s durability very much depends on the type of material used. Plus the particular options you decide to add to that particular roofing type.
'Most polycarbonate roofs have a life expectancy of around 10 to 15 years,' explains Gian-Carlo. 'Glass performs better with many expected to last from 20 to in excess of 30 years, with little discolouration. It is solid tiled roofs, however, that are the most durable. Tile effect and synthetic options often clock in well past the 40 year mark. Most metal tiles still performing well after half a century.’
If you're replacing the roof, it might also be worth incorporating some new conservatory interior ideas to make the space feel fresh.
