Whether a conservatory can have a solid roof is a question many of our customer ask us, and they’re often surprised to learn that that answer is yes! One of the most important aspects of a conservatory is its roof, which plays a crucial role in determining the look and feel of the space. 

Traditional conservatory roofs are made of glass or polycarbonate panels, which allow natural light to flood into the space. However, these roofs are not without their problems. They can be noisy during rain and hailstorms, and they can cause the conservatory to become too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter.

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend towards solid roofs for conservatories, which offer a number of benefits over traditional glass or polycarbonate roofs.

The Problems with Traditional Conservatory Roofs

Traditional conservatory roofs have a number of problems that can make them less than ideal for many homeowners. One of the biggest issues is noise. During rain or hailstorms, the sound of the rain hitting the roof can be extremely loud and disruptive, making it difficult to use the conservatory for anything other than storage.

Another problem with traditional conservatory roofs is their lack of insulation. Glass or polycarbonate roofs can make the conservatory too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter, which can lead to discomfort for those using the space. This can also lead to higher energy bills, as homeowners try to compensate for the lack of insulation by using more heating or cooling.

The Benefits of Solid Roofs for Conservatories

Solid roofs for conservatories offer a number of benefits over traditional glass or polycarbonate roofs. Firstly, they provide excellent insulation, keeping the conservatory at a pleasant temperature throughout the various climates of the year and aid with the aforementioned decrease in energy usage.

Solid roofs also offer better noise insulation than traditional roofs. Rain and hail are much quieter when hitting a solid roof, which can make the conservatory a more pleasant space to use during inclement weather! 

Types of Solid Conservatory Roofs – Tiled and Solid Panels

There are two main types of solid roofs for conservatories: tiled roofs and solid panels.

Tiled roofs are made up of interlocking tiles, similar to those used on a traditional house roof. The tiles can be made from a variety of materials, including clay, concrete, or slate, and come in a range of colours and styles to match the existing house roof.

Solid panel roofs, on the other hand, are made from a single piece of material, most commonly polycarbonate or metal. These roofs can be designed to match the existing house roof or to create a unique look for the conservatory.

Comparison of Tiled Roofs and Solid Panels for Conservatories

Tiled roofs and solid panel roofs both offer excellent insulation and noise reduction, making them ideal for use in conservatories. However, they each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Tiled roofs are more durable and long-lasting than solid panel roofs, with a lifespan of up to 50 years. They also provide a more traditional look, which can be important for homeowners who want to maintain the aesthetic of their home. However, tiled roofs are more expensive to install than solid panel roofs and require more maintenance, as the tiles can become loose or damaged over time.

Solid panel roofs are less expensive to install than tiled roofs and require less maintenance. They are also more lightweight, which can be important for conservatories with limited load-bearing capacity. However, solid panel roofs do not provide the same traditional look as tiled roofs and may not be as durable over the long term.

Installing a Tiled Roof on an Existing Conservatory

Installing a tiled roof on an existing conservatory is a relatively straightforward process. The existing roof is removed and replaced with a new timber frame, onto which the tiles are then fixed. The process usually takes around 2-3 days, depending on the size of the conservatory.

It is important to ensure that the conservatory is structurally sound before installing a tiled roof, as the additional weight of the tiles can put a strain on the structure. This may require additional reinforcement to be added to the conservatory frame.

Cost Considerations and Savings with a Solid Roof for Conservatories

The cost of installing a solid roof for a conservatory will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the conservatory, the type of solid roof chosen, and the complexity of the installation. Tiled roofs are generally more expensive to install than solid panel roofs, due to the additional materials and labor required.

In addition, a solid roof can increase the value of a property, as it provides a more usable and versatile space. This can be particularly important for homeowners who are looking to sell their property in the future.

Maintenance of a Solid Roof Conservatory

Solid roof conservatories require less maintenance than traditional glass or polycarbonate roofs. Tiled roofs may require occasional cleaning to remove debris or moss, but otherwise require little cleaning. Solid panel roofs may require occasional cleaning to remove dirt or debris, but are also generally very low maintenance.

Conclusion – Can a Conservatory Have a Solid Roof?

In conclusion, a conservatory can have a solid roof, and there are many benefits to doing so. Solid roofs offer excellent insulation and noise reduction, making the conservatory a more comfortable space to use year-round. Tiled roofs provide a traditional look and are more durable than solid panel roofs, although they are more expensive to install.

Overall, a solid roof is a great way to improve the functionality and comfort of a conservatory, while also adding value to a property! 

If you need some assistance in deciding whether a solid roof conservatory is the right option for you, at West Midlands Double Glazing, we provide a FREE consultation and are specialists in both the construction of solid roof conservatories or conservatory roof replacements and conversions.  

We are also one of the only renovation companies in the region to offer 0% finance options on all of our services! Get in touch today so we can make your conservatory dreams a reality!