A solid conservatory roof is a popular way of transforming your home’s extension into an extra living space all year round. The benefits include reduced glare, regulating the temperature and soundproofing.
However, there are some considerations you should take into account when choosing this option. You should also ensure that your installer is reputable. They should be a member of FENSA and/or CERTASS, have a dedicated team of qualified installers and offer an insurance-backed guarantee.
It’s best to choose a company with an office and showroom so you can visit them for advice, guidance and any questions you might have. They should be willing to work closely with you to design a bespoke roof that will suit your individual needs.
You may need to make structural improvements to your existing conservatory if you are replacing a lightweight roof with a solid one. For example, if your uPVC windows have no steel reinforcement then you will need to reinforce them with new ones before fitting your solid roof. You can test for this by holding a magnet against the frames – a strong magnet means they are well reinforced.
Tiles are a good choice for a solid conservatory roof, as they are durable and hardwearing. They are also easy to clean and will not discolour over time. However, you should be aware that tiles are heavy, which can put more stress on your conservatory’s walls. It’s essential to build the right structure to support the extra weight and prevent the walls from collapsing.
If you decide to go with a solid conservatory roof, your installer should help you comply with building regulations. This will require a comprehensive inspection of your conservatory, including its base and brickwork, to ensure that it can support the additional weight of a solid roof. Your installer should also supply you with a certificate to say that your new conservatory roof meets building regulations.
The minimum pitch for a solid roof is 35°. This is to avoid water collecting on the surface of the roof and causing damage. A higher pitch will increase the height of the ceiling inside your conservatory.
Solid roofs are often a better choice for older conservatories because of their superior insulation. They will keep your room a lot cooler in summer and warmer in winter than polycarbonate or glass alternatives.
You can also add skylights to your solid conservatory roof to increase the amount of natural light in your room. This will be a particularly important feature if you plan to use your conservatory as an office or living space.
Solid roofs will reduce glare and noise from outside your conservatory, which is especially helpful on sunny days. You’ll also find that your solid conservatory roof will be better at soundproofing than a glass or polycarbonate roof. This can make it easier to relax and unwind in your conservatory. It will also give you peace of mind if you want to use your conservatory as an office or playroom.