If you have a conservatory that was installed between ten and twenty years ago during the peak popularity for this home improvement it may now be looking rather tired, and in need of some serious attention. Whilst niggling issues can be easily fixed and aren’t necessarily deal breakers if these problems persist you will need to consider replacing the roof with something that can address them.
One of the most popular options is a solid conservatory roof replacement. This is a great way to up the usability of your conservatory and make it something that you will want to use all year round. However, there are several factors to bear in mind before committing to this type of solution.
A solid conservatory roof will add considerably to the cost of your home improvements. This is because the materials are significantly more expensive and a new structure will need to be built in order for this type of roof to fit on top of your existing conservatory.
Some companies offer solutions that involve cladding the existing polycarbonate roof with lightweight tiles and a new plastered ceiling. This will certainly reduce the amount of light that is let into your conservatory but won’t provide the thermal efficiency and comfort that a solid roof offers. In addition, these types of glazed roofing systems are prone to leaking and the structure can quickly start to rot.
Upgrading your current conservatory to a solid roof will make it much more attractive to prospective buyers. A well designed and built space can add 12% to the value of your property, so this is a good way to get a return on your investment. A new solid roof will also allow you to increase the number of days that you can use your conservatory in the winter, as it will keep it much warmer.
Solid roofs are often regarded as the best option for older conservatories due to their high level of insulation and ability to block out the sun’s rays. The fact that they will block out the rays will also help to improve your energy costs. It is important to remember, however, that your conservatory will need ventilation or it will become damp very quickly. This can then lead to rotting of the frame and leaks.
A good quality lightweight tiled roof from a company such as Metrotile or Britmet is a very cost-effective alternative to a traditional conservatory roof. They are a little more costly than the standard polycarbonate but will last longer and be much easier to maintain. This will also allow you to retain the existing structure of your conservatory so that it is still a usable room all year round. This will be a more suitable option for many older conservatories that would struggle to support the weight of a solid roof. A survey should be carried out to determine whether the original structure can support a new roof. lightweight conservatory roof replacement