Any home improvement project needs a lot of careful consideration, and conservatory roof replacements are no different. 

If you’re considering upgrading to a solid roof conservatory, you probably have a hundred questions running through your mind about whether it’s the right choice for you. 

This is completely natural, and it’s a process a lot of homeowners go through. 

But it’s a process that is made all the more complicated and stressful due to a number of myths and misconceptions about conservatory roofs. 

In this article, we’ll debunk some of these common myths so you can make the most informed decision about whether or not a solid roof conservatory is the right choice for you.

Myth 1: Conservatory Roofs Are Not Durable

The reason this myth exists is that it was actually true for older conservatories. 

A lot of traditional conservatories had roofs that were made from single-pane glass or thin polycarbonate panels. These weren’t the most durable materials, which often led to cracks and leaks - especially in harsh weather conditions.

The good news is that a lot of advancements have been made in the last 20 years or so, and even modern polycarbonate and glass roofs are more robust than they once were. 

However, if you opt for glass or polycarbonate roofing, it’s worth bearing in mind that panels are still prone to slippage (which can cause leaks), and their lifespan is only likely to be 10-20 years. 

If you’re looking for the most durable conservatory roof, that can withstand all weather conditions, reduce the sound of the rain, and virtually eliminate the risk of leaks - you’ll want to choose a solid roof conservatory. 

Most solid roof conservatory installations have a tpical lifespan of 50 years, and the Guardian Warm Roofs that we install at Projects4Roofing come with a 10-year warranty and 20-year workmanship guarantee to give you complete peace of mind. 

Myth 2: Conservatories Are Always Too Hot in Summer and Too Cold in Winter

Again, this myth used to be true, but became outdated when solid roof conservatories became a more viable option for homeowners in 2010. 

When glass or polycarbonate roofs were the only options for your conservatory, it was common to find that the internal temperature was too hot during summer months and too cold in winter.

The translucent nature of both glass and polycarbonate panels means that the rays from the sun stream into your conservatory during the summer, heating it up - much like a greenhouse. And in winter, the poor insulation of both glass and polycarbonate roofs means that heat easily escapes - making your conservatory chilly. 

Solid conservatory roof transformations are specifically designed to overcome these extremes of temperature, helping you maintain a comfortable, stable temperature inside your conservatory all year round. 

They prevent the sun’s rays from heating up your conservatory, and their built-in insulation helps you retain heat during cooler months. 

So, no more sweltering summers or freezing winters with a solid roof conservatory - just a comfortable space to enjoy every day. 

Myth 3: Conservatory roof transformations are too expensive

Okay, so there’s a half-truth in this one. 

Upgrading to a solid roof conservatory can be a significant investment. It’s not a decision to be taken lightly. 

But whether or not it’s seen as “too expensive” is really a matter of perspective, and the value you place on the benefits that a solid roof conservatory can bring. 

If you’re looking for a place to make memories of playing with the kids or grandkids, some might say that a comfortable space you can use all year round is priceless. 

Or if you’re looking for a comfortable home office with plenty of natural light now that your business has moved to hybrid working, and you don’t want to work in a dark bedroom - this puts a different lens on things, as you can’t put a price on your mental health. 

It’s also worth noting that there are financial benefits in upgrading to a solid roof conservatory, including a reduction in energy bills, an increase in the value of your property, and a reduction in ongoing maintenance and repair costs. 

So it’s worth taking a balanced view about the value you’d receive from a comfortable, year-round conservatory and the financial benefits that come with it - before deciding if a conservatory roof transformation is “too expensive” or not. 

Myth 4: A Solid Roof Can’t Turn a Conservatory into a Regular Room

This conservatory roof myth couldn’t be further from the truth. 

In fact, many people decide against getting a more costly home extension because their solid roof conservatory becomes the extra ‘regular room’ they need! 

Solid roof conservatories combine the benefits of improved roof insulation with natural light, making sure your conservatory remains bright and airy at the same time as being more energy efficient and having a stable temperature all year round. .

This makes a solid roof conservatory the ideal space to create an extra sitting room, a dining room, a home office, or play areas for the kids. 

And there’s good news if open-plan living is your goal. 

With the support of the right roofing specialist who can help you follow Building Control guidelines, you can even make your solid roof conservatory open plan so it blends seamlessly with the rest of your home. 

It's also important not to forget the exterior. 

The Guardian Warm Roof is available with a wide range of different finishes, in both tiles and slates - so the outside of your solid roof conservatory can align with the aesthetics of your house. 

Myth 5: Planning Permission Is Always Required for Roof Changes

If you wanted to install a solid conservatory roof before 2010, you did need planning permission - which is where this myth comes from. 

But building regulations were relaxed about 14 years ago, and now - more often than not - you don’t need planning permission to replace your old glass or polycarbonate roof with a solid insulated conservatory roof. It falls under ‘permitted development rights’. 

However, even though the requirement to obtain planning permission is no longer there, you still need to make sure that your conservatory roof replacement complies with Building Regulations.

If the thought of going through the Building Regulations process fills you with dread - you don’t need to worry. If you choose the right roofing specialist to install your conservatory roof, they will handle all of this for you. 

At Projects4Roofing, for example, we manage all aspects of Building Regulations approval, and issue you with a completion certificate at the end of our installation. 

Feeling reassured about upgrading to a solid roof conservatory? Take the next step with Projects4Roofing

There’s a lot to consider when you’re thinking about upgrading your conservatory roof. 

Hopefully, debunking these five common myths has helped you feel a little more informed about whether or not a solid roof conservatory is right for you. 

But you’re bound to have more questions. How long will the process take? How much will it cost? Can you install skylights? What makes the Guardian Warm Roof better than other solutions?

We’re happy to answer all of your questions, with no hard sell, and no obligations. 

At Projects4Roofing, we’ve been installing solid roof conservatories for more than a decade, and we understand how important it is to get all the information you need to make the right decision for you and your family. 

So, whatever questions you have, just get in touch with our friendly team and we’ll be happy to help. 

Speak to our roofing specialists at Projects4Roofing today!