A solid roof is a great way to upgrade your conservatory and make it more of an all-year-round space. But before you go ahead and replace your existing roof, there are a few things you should know.
Firstly, the process of replacing your conservatory roof with a solid roof is a major construction project. Your installer will take down your existing conservatory roof and will install a frame and rafters. Some companies use timber frames and others use aluminium. Both have their pros and cons. Most companies will also put a layer of plywood decking over the frame. This is a good idea as it helps to prevent the frame and rafters from getting damp, rotting or cold bridging.
Once the frame is up, your installer will then fit a waterproof sheet and insulation. The best insulation for a conservatory is a lightweight Celotex which is BBA approved. This insulation will help to keep your conservatory cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. It will also help to reduce noise and glare from the sun.
After the insulation is fitted, your roof will be covered with a lightweight tile which can be either a traditional clay tile or a slate effect shingle. The tiles can then be coloured to match your existing windows and frames.
Another advantage of a tiled roof is that it is less likely to become mossy compared to a polycarbonate or glass conservatory. Moss can damage the roof and obstruct drainage points.
The cost of replacing your conservatory roof with a proper solid tiled roof will depend on your choice of materials and the size of your conservatory. You should always get quotes from a number of different companies to ensure you are getting the best price. You will also need to consider whether or not you require planning permission. Most people don’t require planning permission to change their conservatory roof but this is something that you should check with your local authority before work starts.
Replacing your conservatory roof with a solid roof will count as a material alteration and therefore, you may need to apply for building regulations approval. Your local authority will inspect the existing structure to ensure that it can support the new roof. Your installer should be able to advise you on this and will apply for the building regulation approval on your behalf.
As long as your conservatory is structurally sound and the replacement roof is a proper tiled roof and not a clad over system then you are not likely to need planning permission. However, it is still worth checking with your local authority before you start any work to avoid disappointment and expense in the future. replacing conservatory roof with solid roof