Whether you are building a new conservatory or need to replace the roof, your choice will depend on the look you want to achieve, the rest of the structure, the building specifications and how easy it is to install your choice of conservatory roof.
The first factor to consider when choosing which type of roof you want for your conservatory will be the position of the structure. A north facing conservatory will get less sun and be cooler, and you may want a glass or polycarbonate roof that will allow sunlight to warm the room. A south facing room may get so much sun that it is uncomfortable in summer, in which case you may want to install a tiled roof to provide more shade, or consider installing conservatory blinds that can be drawn in winter to warm the room up.
An east facing conservatory will get early morning sun, so if you are more likely to use the area in the afternoon, you should consider a transparent roof, but possibly look at double glazing to prevent heat loss as the day goes on. A west facing room will get afternoon sun, ideal for sundowners or an afternoon nap – unless it gets too hot in summer, when you may be grateful for a covered roof.
Glass conservatory roofs are popular as they provide lovely views of the night sky, and provide a space that is part of the outdoors while being enclosed and protected from the elements. Double glazing is recommended, as this provides good insulation as well as dampening the noise from outside. Heat-reflective glass helps to keep heat in the room. Self-cleaning glass is popular to help keep the roof clean, but is more expensive than ordinary glass.
Many conservatory owners feel that a tiled conservatory roof makes the additional space look more like it is part of the home, not an add-on afterthought. A covered roof is more economical to heat in winter if it is north facing, and a south facing room won’t warm up too much summer. Tiled conservatory roofs are ideal if your conservatory is overlooked by neighbours as it will keep prying eyes away.
A polycarbonate roof offers different thicknesses and finishes. Polycarbonate is more affordable than glass or tiles, and can be tinted to provide some shade and reduce glare. It is not as clear as glass, so if you want to do some star gazing, glass will be the better option. 25mm to 35mm polycarbonate is the standard thickness used on conservatory roofs, and this thickness provides good sound insulation as well as being light and strong.
Your choice in conservatory roofs is considerable, but your decision should take into account the durability of the materials, the amount of sunlight you need in the room, and your budget. Consider how easy it will be to install in the existing structure too, as this can affect the cost as well. Choosing the right roof can give you years of pleasure in your conservatory.
