When it comes to replacing a conservatory roof, polycarbonate is the top choice for two key reasons—affordability and insulation. Its cost-effectiveness makes it the most budget-friendly option, while its insulating properties help maintain a more comfortable temperature year-round. Below, we’ll break down these benefits in more detail, along with other important factors to consider before upgrading your roof.
Polycarbonate remains the first choice for conservatory roofing due to its affordability and modern performance improvements.
In the past, 16mm single-cell or twin-walled polycarbonate roofing was commonly used, but these older materials lacked UV resistance and energy efficiency. Some conservatories had thicker blue-tinted polycarbonate, but even these did not offer optimal insulation or sound reduction.
While modern glass roofing systems provide excellent thermal efficiency, they can cost 3-4 times more than polycarbonate. This makes polycarbonate the most cost-effective solution for upgrading a conservatory without breaking the bank. If you want more information on roofs please follow the link to our main roofing page here
One major advantage of polycarbonate roofing is its lightweight nature compared to glass:
Because of this, many older conservatories were not designed to support the weight of a full glass roof. Retrofitting for glass often requires reinforcement of both the upper structure and foundation, adding significant costs to the upgrade. With polycarbonate, this extra engineering is unnecessary, making it an even more practical financial choice.
Modern polycarbonate roofing is incredibly strong, with high impact resistance that protects against:
Hail and extreme weather conditions.
Accidental impacts that could crack or shatter glass.
Additionally, polycarbonate roofing is available in various light transmission levels, allowing you to choose the perfect balance of natural light, insulation, and privacy.
With careful planning, additional improvements can be made to further enhance insulation, UV filtering, and sound reduction, ensuring your conservatory remains comfortable, stylish, and long-lasting.
When selecting polycarbonate for your conservatory roof, both thickness and colour play a crucial role in achieving the right balance of light transmission, insulation, and aesthetic appeal. The standard polycarbonate roofing options are available in 25mm and 35mm thicknesses, ensuring durability and energy efficiency for a long-lasting upgrade.
Each polycarbonate colour is designed to reduce glare and control solar heat gain, ensuring your conservatory remains comfortable year-round.
✔ Maximum light transmission, ideal for creating an open and airy space.
✔ No tint, allowing unobstructed views of the sky.
✔ Best suited for areas with limited direct sunlight.
✔ Softens sunlight while still maintaining good light levels.
✔ Helps reduce glare, making it a practical choice for south-facing conservatories.
✔ Enhances the warm aesthetic of a traditional conservatory.
✔ Provides diffused natural light, eliminating harsh sun rays.
✔ Helps maintain a cooler temperature inside the conservatory.
✔ Offers a higher level of privacy while keeping the space bright.
✔ A two-sided solution: bronze exterior for heat reduction, opal interior for brightness.
✔ Reduces solar heat gain, making it a great choice for energy efficiency.
✔ Balances privacy and light transmission effectively.
✔ Designed to limit heat buildup while still allowing ample natural light.
✔ Reflects up to 50% of solar radiation, preventing overheating in summer.
✔ Reduces reliance on cooling solutions while maintaining brightness.
For those seeking next-generation solar control, Polyspan Optimum is a newly introduced polycarbonate that combines cutting-edge insulation and light transmission technology. Currently available in 25mm thickness, this material offers:
✔ Two modern colour choices – Blue & Grey for a contemporary look.
✔ Superior solar reflection, significantly reducing heat buildup.
✔ Maintains high natural light levels without excessive glare.
This is an ideal choice for homeowners wanting enhanced comfort and efficiency while upgrading their conservatory roof.
✔ 25mm Polycarbonate: Lightweight yet durable, offering good insulation and light transmission.
✔ 35mm Polycarbonate: Increased thermal efficiency, better noise reduction, and improved strength for long-term performance.
By selecting the right colour and thickness, you ensure your conservatory stays comfortable, stylish, and energy-efficient all year round.
Choosing the best polycarbonate roofing option depends on your conservatory’s orientation, personal preferences, and insulation needs. Whether you prioritize maximum light, glare reduction, or solar control, there’s a solution to fit your project. If you need assistance selecting the right panel, contact us today for expert guidance and recommendations!
In most cases, no planning permission is required to replace an existing conservatory roof with polycarbonate panels. However, certain building regulations may apply depending on U-values and insulation standards.
To ensure compliance, check the latest guidelines from the UK Government Check official UK building regulations for more details.
