Robby Branson
A Professional You Can Trust.
Robby Branson Builders Ltd
A Professional You Can Trust.
Robby Branson Builders Ltd
Considering a Conservatory Roof Upgrade in Dorset? Here’s What You Need to Know
Upgrading your conservatory roof isn’t just the No. 1 improvement you can make statistically — it’s the one that can most dramatically transform your space from a seasonal room into a year-round living area. Whether you’re in Poole, Bournemouth, or anywhere across Dorset or Hampshire, we believe there’s a roofing solution to suit your home, your conservatory’s orientation, and your budget.
This upgrade can also have a big impact on the running costs of your conservatory, especially when paired with other improvements. In some cases, a roof upgrade alone is enough — in others, additional tweaks may be needed to make the most of your investment.
If you’re sticking with one of the two conventional coverings — polycarbonate or glass — check out the details below and on their dedicated pages. Both options have evolved significantly over the years, with polycarbonate seeing some of the biggest improvements.
From cost-effective polycarbonate to sleek modern glass, fully insulated tiled systems, or hybrids, we help homeowners along the Jurassic Coast and beyond choose the right fit for their property.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular conservatory roof options, explain what makes each one unique, and help you select an upgrade that delivers long-term comfort and value.
Ready to find the perfect conservatory roof for your home? Let’s get started.
Polycarbonate Conservatory Roof Panels – Lightweight, Affordable, and Surprisingly Capable
Across Poole, Christchurch, and throughout Dorset and Hampshire, polycarbonate remains a firm favourite for conservatory roof upgrades—especially for homeowners looking to improve comfort without breaking the bank. And with good reason: today’s polycarbonate products have come a long way from the thin, inefficient sheets many people remember.
We’re particular fans of these modern panels. They’ve improved dramatically in performance, yet still remain the most cost-effective option on the market. In fact, we think there’s only one real drawback—and that’s the sound during heavy rain.
Because it’s the lightest roofing material by square metre, it rarely requires any additional structural reinforcement. If your conservatory already has a polycarbonate or even a glass roof, replacing it with modern polycarbonate panels is usually a straight swap—no costly engineering or strengthening needed.
The same can’t always be said if you’re upgrading to glass or a heavier system like tiles, which may need structural assessment or modifications.
Modern polycarbonate panels are available in several thicknesses:
10mm, 16mm, 25mm, 32mm, and 35mm. However, for conservatories, we strongly recommend 25mm or thicker.
Anything thinner often lacks the strength and insulation required for year-round use—and the price difference is usually small.
25mm – A reliable balance of cost and performance
32mm – Better thermal and acoustic performance
35mm – Top-tier performance within the polycarbonate range
You’ll also find a choice of five main finishes:
Clear
Opal
Bronze
Bronze/Opal dual-tone
HeatGuard (also marketed as SolarGuard by some brands)
HeatGuard is especially popular in sunny areas along the Jurassic Coast, thanks to its reflective silver-grey outer layer that helps reduce heat build-up. It’s available in 25mm, 32mm, and 35mm options.
In terms of performance:
Clear panels let in the most light but also allow more heat through
35mm HeatGuard panels offer excellent insulation and glare reduction—rivaling double-glazed glass at a much lower cost.
And what about noise? It’s true—polycarbonate isn’t silent in a downpour. But if noise is a concern, stepping up to 35mm panels can reduce rain noise by as much as 40% compared to 25mm sheets. That makes a noticeable difference. Of course, if near silence is essential, modern glass roofs remain the quietest option—but they come at a premium.
SMARTGLASS® – The Intelligent Conservatory Roof Upgrade for Dorset Homes If you’re looking to upgrade your conservatory roof to something quieter, more efficient, and low maintenance, SMARTGLASS® is one of the most advanced glazing systems available. Perfect for homes in Poole, Bournemouth, and across Dorset, this intelligent glass technology transforms your conservatory into a comfortable space you can enjoy year-round. Key Benefits of SMARTGLASS® Roofing: Quieter Than Polycarbonate – No more loud rain noise. Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, even during storms. Superior Thermal Performance – Keeps heat out in summer and warmth in during winter. Up to 3x more efficient than standard double glazing. Glare & UV Protection – Filters over 60% of visible light, reducing eye strain and fading of furnishings. Self-Cleaning Surface – The glass breaks down dirt, allowing rain to wash it away naturally. Condensation Control – Minimizes cold spots with advanced perimeter edge technology. Installed as part of your Conservatory MOT or as a standalone roof upgrade, SMARTGLASS® is ideal for those seeking long-term comfort and performance without the drawbacks of traditional glazing.
Tailored for Dorset Homes – SMARTGLASS® That Works With Your Climate
Whether you’re in Poole, Christchurch, or anywhere along the Jurassic Coast, SMARTGLASS® gives you the flexibility to match your conservatory roof to your home’s style and solar needs.
Choose from three performance levels and four stylish tints — Sky Blue, Aqua Green, Bronze, and Neutral — all designed to suit both aesthetic preferences and environmental performance.
Glazing That Goes Beyond the Roof
For windows and doors, SMARTGLASS®-W reflects up to twice as much solar energy as standard glass. This keeps your space cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter — an ideal match for conservatories with large glass façades.
A Smart Choice for New or Replacement Roofs
With over 3 million conservatories across the UK, many built decades ago, upgrades are now essential. Replacing an outdated polycarbonate or standard glass roof with SMARTGLASS® significantly boosts thermal performance, light control, and comfort.
For south-facing conservatories, SMARTGLASS® Plus+ or Ultimate offer enhanced solar protection and glare reduction.
Looking to future-proof your conservatory roof?
SMARTGLASS® is the smarter, longer-lasting solution for homeowners across Dorset and Hampshire.
A flat conservatory roof is a versatile, contemporary solution for upgrading existing conservatories, new extensions, or garden rooms. Popular across Poole, Bournemouth, and surrounding Dorset areas, this style offers a clean, minimalist aesthetic with outstanding thermal performance and durability. Why Choose a Flat Roof? Sleek & Contemporary – Ideal for modern home extensions with a minimalist feel. Strong & Durable – Built to last using high-performance insulated panels. Better Insulation – Helps maintain stable indoor temperatures all year round. Optional Rooflights or Lanterns – Add privacy, natural daylight, and a touch of design flair. Low Maintenance – Fewer external components make upkeep simple. Planning Permission Notes: Flat roof upgrades may require additional approvals when replacing a traditional pitched roof. Our Conservatory MOT team will guide you through this, ensuring all regulations are handled quickly and smoothly. Flat Living Roofs create a seamless connection between your conservatory and main home—delivering a practical, energy-efficient space without compromising on style.
Upgrading your conservatory roof isn’t just the No. 1 improvement—it’s the foundation for better insulation, energy efficiency, and year-round comfort. Most homeowners don’t realize that starting at the top solves multiple issues in one go. And from a builder’s perspective, sealing up the envelope begins with the roof—it’s the first and most important step to making any conservatory space truly efficient.
Why Upgrade?
Regulate Temperature – Stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
Improve Insulation – Reduce energy costs with better heat retention.
Minimize Noise – Enjoy a quieter, more peaceful space.
Replace Worn Parts – There’s more to a conservatory roof than meets the eye. Hidden components like glazing bars, seals, and support trims all affect long-term performance and comfort.
Budget-Friendly Options – From polycarbonate to hybrid and tiled systems, there’s a solution to suit every budget.
Serving Dorset & Hampshire
Whether you’re in Poole, Christchurch, or anywhere along the Jurassic Coast, our Conservatory MOT team is here to help you make the right upgrade—without the hassle of planning permission or unnecessary red tape.
Ready to transform your conservatory?
Let’s find the perfect roofing upgrade for you.
Upgrade your conservatory roof with a lightweight tiled option, combining the classic look of a traditional roof with modern insulation technology. Designed for comfort, energy efficiency, and durability, these roofs transform your conservatory into a true extension of your home. Making the Upgrade Easier Local authorities and government regulations now allow a more straightforward approval process, requiring only minimal compliance steps. However, additional costs—such as a detailed engineering survey—are necessary to ensure structural integrity.
Exceptional Thermal Efficiency – Keeps heat in during winter and out during summer.
Reduced Noise & Glare – Eliminates rain noise and harsh sunlight for a peaceful space.
Fast & Hassle-Free Installation – Designed to fit existing conservatories with minimal disruption.
Aesthetic Flexibility – Wide range of tile styles and colours to match your home.
Regulation Compliant – Meets modern building standards for insulation and structural integrity.
Seamless Home Integration – Creates a fully functional, all-season living space.
Perfect for New Builds & Conservatory roof Upgrades
Whether you’re replacing an old glass or polycarbonate roof or starting fresh, a lightweight tiled roof enhances both style and performance. The result? A conservatory that blends seamlessly with your home, boosts property value, and provides comfort in all seasons.
LivinRoof combines the insulation of a tiled roof with the natural light of a glass roof, creating a stylish and energy-efficient upgrade for your conservatory. Designed to enhance comfort and usability, it offers the best of both worlds—solid roofing for warmth and strength, with glass panels to maintain brightness. Why Choose LivinRoof? Best of Both Worlds – Solid panels for insulation, glass panels for natural light. All-Year Comfort – Keeps heat in during winter and out in summer. Reduced Noise & Glare – Quieter than polycarbonate and softer on the eyes. Faster Installation – Works with most existing conservatories. Minimal Approvals Required – Often no extra permissions or fees needed. Customizable Design – Choose the placement of glass panels for the perfect balance of light and privacy. Upgrade Without the Hassle LivinRoof is one of the easiest and most flexible upgrades available, making it a cost-effective solution for homeowners looking to transform their conservatory into a true living space.
An orangery roof is more than just a roofing option—it’s a design statement that enhances both style and structure. Unlike standard conservatories, an orangery incorporates solid architectural elements, blending seamlessly with your home to create a more permanent and substantial living space. Traditional brick or decorative piers at the corners provide structural strength while giving the orangery a high-end aesthetic that feels more like a true extension of your home rather than a simple add-on. KEY FEATURES
Grand Architectural Design – A wider insulated beam and soffit give the roofline a refined, elegant look.
Central Glass Roof – Allows natural light to flood the space while maintaining the warmth and coziness of a solid structure.
Structural Piers – Brick or decorative piers at the corners enhance stability and create a more permanent extension feel.
Thermal Efficiency – More insulated than a traditional conservatory roof, keeping your space comfortable all year.
Versatile Styling – Available in modern or traditional designs, with the option to include lantern roofs or decorative cornices.
Minimal Approvals Required – Like LivinRoof, most orangery designs do not need additional planning permissions or fees.
Orangery roofs provide the perfect balance between open, light-filled spaces and solid, well-insulated structures. The combination of large glazed panels with a solid perimeter roof makes them an excellent choice for those who want more privacy and insulation while still enjoying natural daylight.
Unlike traditional conservatories, an orangery feels like a true home extension rather than a separate room. Whether you are renovating an older conservatory or building from scratch, an orangery-style roof delivers elegance, warmth, and long-term value to your property.
Customization & Integration
Orangeries are highly customizable, allowing homeowners to personalize their design with:
Roof lanterns or multiple glazed sections to optimize light.
Modern or classical decorative elements to suit any home style.
High-performance glazing to further enhance insulation and reduce glare.
With their distinctive charm and superior comfort, orangeries are an investment in lifestyle and property value, offering a sophisticated yet practical solution for modern living.
Over 40 five-star reviews in the last 6+ years from helping homeowners across Dorset fix, improve, and upgrade their conservatories — and occasionally build full extensions or replace old windows. From slipped roof panels and misted glass to full overhauls, Robby Branson has been called in to put things right with honest advice and dependable workmanship.
Most conservatory roof upgrades don’t require planning permission, but certain modifications—like increased height or a solid roof—may be subject to regulations. Before making changes, check the UK Planning Portal
for the latest guidelines.
Most conservatory roof upgrades follow standard building regulations, especially regarding **thermal insulation, structural integrity, and ventilation**.
To ensure compliance, check the latest guidelines from the UK Government Building Regulations.
Choose Your Conservatory Roof
Select from the options below to explore more details and choices, or contact us directly to discuss your conservatory roof upgrade.
Have questions? Contact me directly and let’s discuss your conservatory roof upgrade!
robbyuk2010@gmail.com