If you’ve decided it’s time you swapped out your old conservatory roof for something better, good for you! If you have a polycarbonate conservatory roof fitted, you’ve no doubt experienced issues with temperature, leaks, and noise. However, conservatory roof replacement can eradicate these problems.
With more than one type of replacement roof to choose from, you might be unsure which is right for you. So, we’ve created this handy comparison guide to help you out!
Here at Astoria Windows, we install 2 types of replacement roof for conservatories: glass and tiled. As both differ enormously in terms of looks and performance, we’ve had a closer look at each of them below.
Glass conservatory roofs are built from large panels of glazing and insulating uPVC frames. Allowing natural light to flow inside a conservatory uninterrupted, they have undergone a welcome performance boost in recent years to ensure that conservatories are able to stay comfortable as well as bright.
Glass roofs are much better for conservatory roofs than polycarbonate.
The combination of multiple layers of high-quality insulation, a waterproof membrane, and durable tiles, tiled roofs transform conservatories into spaces that feel more like traditional extensions. Internally, it’s easy to mistake them for just another room because they have a plastered ceiling. As an optional extra, recessed spotlights can be fitted into the ceiling too.
Now you’ve had a brief introduction to each roof, let’s take a closer look at how each of them performs.
For homeowners who find that their existing conservatory or orangery gets too cold in the winter and unbearably hot in the summer, a modern roof replacement will drastically improve it’s thermal insulation, providing a comfortable space all year round.
Conservatory Roof ReplacementAs glass roofs only have a few slim glazing bars sitting between what would otherwise be a wall of glass, they undoubtedly allow more light inside the conservatory. So, if natural light is central to your conservatory plans, or you would like to use the space as a sunroom, glass should be your first choice.
Although they do not let in as much natural light as glass, tiled roofs can be fitted with several rooflights. If placing rooflights strategically, you can even highlight certain spots in the conservatory if you wish.
Modern double glazing and chambered top caps allow glass roofs to achieve a remarkable thermal performance of 1.0 W/m2k. A glass roof will almost certainly lower your energy bill compared to a polycarbonate roof. However, our tiled roofs, which have multiple layers of insulation and can achieve U-values of 0.18 W/m2k, are the clear winner in terms of thermal performance, so should lead to further savings.
Tiled roof’s outstanding thermal performance is evidence that they dramatically reduce heat transfer. This stops warm air from escaping the conservatory on cold days, keeping them warm, but it also stops too much heat from getting inside on hot days, keeping them cool.
Glass roofs don’t reduce heat transfer quite so well, although they can still combat overheating in a different way; various types of tinted glass are available, which limit solar gain, keeping the conservatory cooler. Tinted glass reduces glare from the sun’s rays too.
Thanks to a weathertight, sturdy construction, the sound of wind and rain hitting a glass roof is barely audible. However, weather noise is virtually eliminated with a tiled roof. Either way, both can create peaceful living spaces.
Whether you opt for a glass or tiled roof from us, both are provided with a comprehensive 10-year guarantee. Glass roofs should last for at least 20 years, although they can last longer with proper care. The estimated lifespan of a tiled roof, however, is a very impressive 50 years!
Glass conservatory roofs are fitted with self-cleaning glass as standard. Self-cleaning glass has a special layer on it which breaks down organic dirt. After it has been broken down, it can then be washed away by the rain. So, they require very little upkeep to look their best.
Tiled roofs, however, are virtually maintenance-free. Once they have been fitted, you do not need to worry about cleaning them.
The standard colour options for the framing on glass roofs are White, Satin Black, and Anthracite Grey. However, they can be specified in a huge range of RAL colours, so no matter what colour your conservatory frames or windows are, it’s easy to find a glass roof to match.
For a tiled roof, you select from two types of tile: Metro and Slate. There are also 7 different colours to choose from, including Pewter Grey, Brick Red, and Charcoal. The chosen colours are like those found on most UK properties, so matching to your home should be straightforward.
It’s important to point out that glass and tiled roofs will weigh more than the current polycarbonate roof, so we will need to ensure that the current conservatory is able to support the new weight. Most conservatories will be able to, but when they are not, we provide a conservatory refurbishment service, which can help with this.
When swapping for a tiled roof, Building Regulations will also need to be complied with, but we will ensure any replacement is fully compliant. You don’t need planning permission for a new roof, its covered under permitted development.
| Glass roofs | Tiled roofs | |
| Thermal Performance (U-value) | 1.0 W/m2k | 0.18 W/m2k |
| Colour options | 3 standard and any RAL colour | 2 types of tile and 7 colours |
| Expected lifespan | At least 20 years | 50 years |
| Optional extras | Various types of tinted glass to reduce solar gain and glare | Rooflights to increase natural light and recessed spotlights |
| 10-year guarantee? | Yes | Yes |
It doesn’t matter what type of conservatory you have, lean-to conservatory or any other shaped conservatory. A replacement roof can suit them all.
Whether a glass or solid roof replacement is right for you, Astoria Windows can help. For more information on conservatory roof replacement, give us a call on 01902 773831 or contact us online. You can also get an instant quote online.
At Astoria Windows, we provide complete peace of mind by operating to recognised industry standards. We are a FENSA‑registered installer, ensuring that all window and door installations comply with current building regulations. For added reassurance, every installation is also covered by a 10‑year insurance‑backed guarantee, provided as standard.
With a team bringing together over 35 years of industry experience, we have built a strong reputation for quality workmanship, reliable service and honest advice. Much of our work comes through recommendation, and our customer reviews reflect the care and attention our team brings to every project. We take pride in the trust homeowners place in us and in the long‑standing relationships we’ve built by delivering consistently high standards.
