Should I choose a tiled roof or a glass roof?
The answer to this depends on personal preference and budget, as well as how you plan to use your space and the direction it faces. If you love the idea of a light-filled space and a view of the sky above, you’ll probably be more interested in our glass roofs. Fortunately for these customers, glass roofs have developed leaps and bounds when it comes to temperature control, so you can enjoy a comfortable space all year long.
However, for a year-round cosy feel, our solid tiled roof may be more your style. Don’t forget, you can still achieve that bright and airy space by getting roof windows or full length glass panels added to the design.
Your Budget Windows advisor will be able to share more details about their differences in performance and budget.
Should I replace my frames too?
As you are going to the effort of replacing your roof, it makes perfect sense to replace the frames at the same time. If you don’t, you could risk hindering the improved energy efficiency that your new roof will bring.
Settling for draughty frames can have just as negative impact as an outdated roof would. If you’re considering replacing your conservatory roof, ask us about the process of upgrading your frames at the same time. We will be able to work out a deal that makes it more cost-effective to install both the new roof and frames at the same time.
MORE COMMON QUESTIONS
At this stage, we understand you’re likely to have a lot of questions. You’ll find some commonly asked questions below but feel free to reach out to us if there’s anything we haven’t covered.
What are replacement tiled roofs made of?
At Budget Windows, we can promise a fast and efficient roof fitting with no impact on quality and minimal disruption to you. This is because we prefabricate our roofs to your exact measurements ahead of time, creating your bespoke roof prior to fitting it.
Our roofs are made from a pre-engineered lightweight frame, insulating panels, insulated fire-grade plasterboard and exterior grade plywood with an impenetrable membrane. We will finish the roof with your chosen tiles or solid panels to complement the existing property.
What is a Clad over roof?
Weight: Clad over solutions can be too heavy for the existing frames as they use heavy timber, insulation materials and tiles. Any old conservatory needs to have a roof that is lightweight. The lightest solid roof systems weigh around 31KG/M ².
Tip: Always ask your installer for the total unit weight of the new roof per Sq.M
Fire Safety: By their very nature, ‘clad-over’ systems do not meet current fire safety regulations as they are never effectively fire tested as a complete roof structure, which is necessary to meet this part of building regulations. The original structure varies from job to job which means that only individual components could may have been tested. Solid roofs must be classified as AC, AB or AA in accordance with BS476-3.
Tip: Ask to see the fire safety certificate of the entire roof system before you commit to the project.
Building Regulations: Clad over systems do not generally get Building Regulation Approval due to their low thermal value or structural integrity. Do not confuse this with planning permission which is often not necessary. You are required to notify Building Control if you are making a change to any structure (including replacing a glass or polycarbonate conservatory roof with a solid roof) their approval ensures your new roof is structurally sound.
Tip: Check that local Building Control has been informed before the conversion starts. Obtain a Building Regulations ‘Final’ Certificate and file it in a safe place.
Will my new roof still be too hot in summer and too cool in winter?
No, our roofing systems are specifically designed to ensure your conservatory can be used throughout the year in every kind of weather. At Budget Windows, we utilise solar control glazing so you don’t have to worry about your conservatory feeling like a greenhouse in the summer! However, if you are particularly concerned about temperature control in your extension, we would suggest a tiled roof for your conservatory.
I hear a lot about energy rated windows! What does 'A' rated windows mean?
A rated windows are incredibly energy efficient. In fact, you won’t find any windows that are more energy efficient anywhere in the UK. As defined by the BFRC Rating Scheme (the UK’s national system for rating the efficiency), A windows are the most energy efficient on the market.
This A-E ratings guide is similar to what is often seen on white goods (eg. washing machines, fridges and freezers).
The ratings are simple to follow so consumers can use them to make informed decisions when it comes to energy.
How much will it cost to replace my existing roof?
The price we quote you will depend on the size of the roof and whether you are choosing a glass or solid tiled roof. However, to give you a rough idea, you will likely spend upwards of £5,000 for a small conservatory roof and this goes up to £12,000 for a larger one. Speak to Budget Windows if you have a budget in mind.
How long will it take to replace my existing conservatory roof?
As we will pre-fabricate your bespoke roof, we can quickly and efficiently install a tiled roof in a matter of days.
Do I need planning permission to replace an existing roof?
No, planning permission won’t be needed if you are just upgrading your roof on an existing conservatory. However, you will need to obtain Buildings Regulations Control as a house sale will not be able to occur without this in place.
Do I need Building Regulations Approval?
It is fundamental that you gain Building Regulations approval because this will let you know if the roofing system installed is correctly installed, safe and thermally efficient. It is important you have this peace of mind for your own safety and for selling your house in the future. This is a straightforward process and we are here to help.
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