A glass conservatory can be a sun-filled retreat in your own garden... until the winter chill sets in and you’re left shivering in your slippers. Summers aren’t much better, with soaring temperatures turning it into a sweltering hotbox even the most dedicated sauna-goer would avoid.
Given the poor insulation of glass roofs, it's no wonder that homeowners across the UK are turning to solid roofs for their conservatories. But are they making the right move? Let’s find out.
At Ecozenic, we know all about the best ways to keep your conservatory comfortable all year long. Read on to find out the pros and cons of adding a solid roof to your conservatory!
What are the benefits of adding a solid roof to your conservatory?
Replacing a glass or polycarbonate conservatory roof with a solid roof comes with some major benefits. For example:
1. Superior insulation
The most obvious advantage is the excellent insulation that solid roofs provide. They do a much better job of locking heat in during the winter and out during the summer, keeping your conservatory a stable temperature year-round. Essentially, solid roofs create an effective thermal barrier, reducing the transfer of heat. This comes with two key benefits:
- Your conservatory becomes a comfortable space you can use throughout the entire year, not just for a few months, so you can fully make the most out of it.
- Your home becomes more energy-efficient as you don’t need to use as much heating to keep it warm, saving you money on energy bills while also lowering your carbon footprint.
2. Noise dampening
The insulation doesn’t just block heat - it also reduces noise. Solid roofs can help muffle the sounds from outside, turning your home into a more relaxing retreat. This is especially valuable if you live near a busy street, nightlife, or other noisy areas. Say goodbye to honking cars and blaring music, and hello to peace and quiet!
3. Reduced maintenance
Solid roofs are generally more durable and require less maintenance than glass or polycarbonate roofs. The reduced risk of leaks, breakage, and other issues associated with glass or polycarbonate roofs can save you a lot of money on repairs and replacements over the long run.
4. Aesthetic appeal
Solid roofs can be built with a range of stylish materials like tiles, slate, or shingles, and are available in both flat and pitched designs. This gives you the flexibility to choose a style that complements your home’s architecture and boosts its overall aesthetic. By matching the roof to your main house, your conservatory will feel like a natural extension of your home, rather than something that sticks out like a sore thumb.
5. Reduced sun glare
Using a computer under a glass roof can be a real headache, as the glare from the sun can make your screen almost impossible to read. A solid roof lets you enjoy the garden views through your windows, but without the glare from above, making your conservatory a much better place to work or relax.
6. Increased resale value
The improved insulation, comfort, and functionality of a solid roof can make your home more attractive to potential buyers when it’s time to sell, potentially increasing its final sale price.
Are there any drawbacks to adding a solid roof to your conservatory?
Despite their many benefits, solid roofs do have some drawbacks:
1. Less natural light
Solid roofs, by their nature, block more sunlight than glass roofs. While this offers benefits like a cooler space and reduced glare, it can also make your home a bit darker. However, you can offset this by adding skylights to pitched roofs or a lantern to a flat roof, allowing natural light to flow in while still enjoying the energy-efficiency benefits of a solid roof.
2. Cost
Replacing a glass roof with a solid one can be quite costly, often running into several thousand pounds due to the materials and labour involved. While much of this cost can be offset by the energy savings and increased home value the roof provides, if you're on a tight budget right now, you might want to consider more affordable options (such as insulated roof panels).
So, is it worth it?
For most people, absolutely. While solid roofs do have some drawbacks, the comfort, energy efficiency, and beauty they bring to the table far outweigh the downsides. If you want to make the most of your conservatory, a solid roof is the clear winner.
Maximise your space with a conservatory solid roof conversion from Ecozenic
Cosy up in your conservatory all year round with Ecozenic! Our expert team replaces tired conservatory roofs with modern, energy-efficient options. Whether you prefer sleek flat roofs or traditional pitched designs, our roofs will improve your home's comfort, lower energy bills, and increase its value for years to come.
Our installation services cover Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire, and nearby areas. Get a free quote online or call us on 01202 798666 to start your transformation today!
