Do I buy a tiled roof or glass roof?
That will come down to how you wish to use the space, the direction it faces, and your available budget. If you want lots of light to enter the space and get a fantastic view of your garden, it would be worth requesting solar control glazing, a glazing option that will provide both benefits and keep the setting suitably comfortable.
If you would value an extension that offers year-round use, ask for a solid tiled roof, one that includes full length glass panels or Velux windows. This will give you a cross between a solid and glass roof, and the respective benefits of both.
Have a chat with one of our advisors if you need more information about tiled roofs and glass roofs.
Shall I get my frames upgraded too?
It would be a good idea to have your old conservatory frames replaced at the same time as getting a new roof fitted to the structure. Doing so will significantly improve the standard of thermal efficiency the space provides and ensure that its sufficiently cost.
If you were to keep your current frames, it could potentially minimise the impact that a new roof will have, so have them both attended to. The advisor who assists with your project will be able to work out a fantastic deal for new energy efficient frames and a new roof.
MORE COMMON QUESTIONS
You can ask our advisors anything as they will always go out of their way to help. Some of the most common questions they’re often asked are answered below.
What is a replacement tiled roof made of?
It doesn’t take long to install a replacement tiled roof because much of the manufacturing of the roof takes place ahead of the final installation, done in our hi-tech facility. Very little disruption will therefore be caused at your home. We will create a bespoke design.
The composition of a tiled roof is made up of a pre-engineered lightweight frame, insulating panels, insulated fire-grade plasterboard, an exterior grade plywood and impenetrable membrane. You can select from a range of tiles to finish the roof and also include solid panels to give your extension that natural look.
What is a Clad over roof?
Weight: The heaviness of a clad over solution will often be no good for any existing framework due to it having weight timber, insulation materials and tiles. Any new system must be lightweight, with the lightest solid roofs usually weighing around 31KG/M ².
Tip: Always ask your installer for the total unit weight of the new roof per Sq.M
Fire Safety: In any case, ‘clad-over’ systems are not compliant with current fire safety regulations as they are not sufficiently fire tested as a total roof structure, which is essential to satisfy the relevant part of building regulations. There are so many variations between roofing structures, and it may well be that only certain components have been tested. Solid roofs must be classified as AC, AB, or AA in accordance with BS476-3.
Tip: Don’t agree to the project until you have been given sight of the fire safety certificate for the entire roof system.
Building Regulations: It’s rare for a clad over system to receive Building Regulations Approval because of its low thermal value and poor structural integrity. Planning permission is something complete separate to Building Regulations Approval and will likely not be necessary. Building Control will need to be notified when modifying a structure, such as fitting it with a solid roof, so they can decree if the new roof is structurally sound enough and officially confirm it.
Tip: No conversion should begin before local Building Control has been told. The Building Regulations ‘Final’ Certificate should be stored away safely.
Will a new roof put an end to my conservatory overheating and feeling too cold?
Yes, the whole purpose of the system is to turn your conservatory into a comfortable space all year round. If you’ve ever been in a space with an old polycarbonate roof, you will be familiar with how hot it gets inside during the summer months. Solar control glazing is something that’s definitely worth considering to make your conservatory fit for all seasons, but a tiled roof is often the best option.
What are ‘A’ rated windows?
If you want the most energy efficient windows sold in the UK, you want ‘A’ rated windows, rated as such by the BFRC Rating Scheme. All windows are rated for their energy efficiency levels and the energy rating granted to a window system helps you to identify whether a set of windows comply with Building Regulations.
The energy rating system used for replacement windows is very similar to the traffic-light style system used for ‘white’ goods, such as washing machines, fridges, and freezers. In an increasingly energy conscious world, it’s good for you to know the standard of thermal efficiency offered by a set of replacement windows.
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