Solid Conservatory Roof Costs, Options and What to Expect
Many British conservatories begin as a positive addition to your home, and over the years, become an overflow storage facility for boxes. The reason? Comfort. A solid conservatory roof can overcome this and transform an awkward room into a space that feels like an extension of your home.
Why Homeowners Are Switching
A glass or polycarbonate roof lets in heat and loses it quickly. This makes it very hard to keep the temperature consistent, and expensive to heat the room. An insulated roof keeps the temperature more steady, cuts down glare and reduces the drumming noise of heavy rain.
Tiles or Composite Panels
Most solid roofs are made from lightweight insulated panels with a tiled finish. Tiled roofs give a traditional finish and integrally colour match with the main house. There are a number of tile colour options. Some systems utilise a lighter, more modern, composite finish, which can better complement a delicately framed conservatory.
Explain to your installer that you want to understand the roof materials. Also, you want to understand how the roof is supported, and what the guarantee is.
Will the Room Feel Dark?
This is usually the primary concern. Rooflights, lantern windows and larger side glazing can be included to maintain optimal daylight. Many people find the room feels cosier and more usable than before.
What Affects the Price?
- The shape and size of the conservatory
- What type of tile or finish is used
- How many rooflights/lanterns are required?
- Interior finishing touches such as plastering and spotlights
- The current frame and base conditions
Prices far below the competition deserve extra scrutiny. Look for quotes that itemise the cost, and be wary of prices that seem far below the rest.
Is Your Frame Strong Enough?
A survey should check the frame, base and any existing roof bars. Some conservatories require strengthening. A good installer will explain this and discuss it with you before work begins. It is also worth checking how the building regulations effect your property.
Installation
The fitting process usually takes a few days and is done from the outside, so disruption to the house is limited. Try to pick a good, dry spell of weather to fit the windows. Ask the window fitting company how they will protect your room during the window fitting process.
Living With the New Roof
Once the roof is done, you can plaster and decorate the room to your preference. Unlike glass, you can do things like add ceiling fans or spotlights or mount a TV on the wall. A sloped roof requires very little maintenance. You just need to check your gutters every once in awhile and clean the roof.
Worth the Investment?
Not every conservatory is suited to have a solid roof, but for the ones that can, it adds true utility to the room. Take your time, ask questions and choose an installer that you really feel you can trust.