If you have a conservatory, you’ll likely be familiar with a frustrating problem – it’s too hot in summer and far too cold in winter. Many homeowners find themselves avoiding their conservatory for large parts of the year because it’s simply uncomfortable. The space that was meant to extend your living area ends up sitting empty, and if you’re trying to heat it during colder months, you’ll have noticed the impact on your heating bills.
The root of this problem is usually the roof. Older conservatory roofs, particularly those made from polycarbonate or single-glazed glass, do a poor job of regulating temperature. Heat escapes rapidly in winter, while in summer, the space becomes like a greenhouse.
At Dream Installations, we’ve been helping homeowners in Suffolk and Norfolk address this issue since 2003. One of the most effective solutions we’ve found is replacing an old conservatory roof with a tiled roof system, sometimes referred to as a warm roof. This type of roof transformation can make a dramatic difference to both the usability of your conservatory and your energy bills.
What is a Warm Roof?
A warm roof, also known as a tiled roof system, is a conservatory roof designed to provide superior thermal insulation. Unlike traditional glass or polycarbonate roofs, it combines insulation materials with roof tiles to create a solid, thermally efficient structure that keeps heat in during winter and out during summer.
Understanding Conservatory Energy Bills
Many homeowners simply accept that their conservatory is an unusable space for several months of the year. Others try to heat them using radiators or portable heaters, often with disappointing results and worrying energy bills.
The problem is heat loss. Traditional conservatory roofs are notoriously poor at retaining warmth. Polycarbonate roofs or glass roofs with poor thermal performance offer minimal insulation and allow large amounts of heat to escape. When you try to heat a space with this much heat loss, you’re essentially pouring energy and money straight through the roof.
This heat loss works both ways. In summer, the same roof that can’t keep heat in also can’t keep it out. The sun beats down on the roof, turning your conservatory into an uncomfortably hot space.
The good news is that you don’t necessarily need a whole new conservatory to fix these issues. A tiled roof replacement can address the root cause of the problem without the expense and disruption of a complete conservatory rebuild.
A new tiled roof provides proper insulation that dramatically reduces heat loss in winter and prevents excessive heat gain in summer. This means your conservatory maintains a more stable, comfortable environment throughout the year without constantly fighting against the weather.
Dream Installations Tiled Roofs
At Dream Installations, we supply and fit high-performance tiled roof systems that transform conservatories throughout Suffolk and Norfolk. Our tiled roofs are LABC-approved (Local Authority Building Control) as standard, meaning they meet all necessary building regulations, and you can have complete peace of mind about their structural integrity.
Superior Thermal Efficiency
The thermal performance of our tiled roof systems is genuinely impressive. They can achieve U-values as low as 0.18 – among the lowest (best) possible from any roof system. This exceptional thermal insulation is achieved through a carefully designed multi-layered construction.
The warm roof insulation works by creating a barrier that prevents heat transfer. In winter, the warm air inside your conservatory stays inside rather than escaping. In summer, the insulation prevents excessive heat from the sun from penetrating your living space. The result is a more comfortable environment year-round and energy savings.
Style and Versatility
While thermal efficiency is the main benefit, we understand that appearance matters too. Our tiled roofs come in a range of colours and finishes to suit different property styles. Whether you have a modern home or a period property, we can supply a roof that complements your existing architecture.
The Installation Process
One of the significant advantages of a tiled roof replacement compared to building a new conservatory is the installation process. It’s quicker, less disruptive, and more affordable. In most cases, we can work with your existing conservatory structure, replacing just the roof rather than rebuilding from scratch.
Year-Round Benefits
The numerous benefits of a warm roof system extend beyond just energy savings. By creating a more stable temperature, you’ll find your conservatory becomes a space you want to use. No more avoiding it in winter because it’s freezing, or in summer because it’s unbearably hot.
This improved comfort means you’re effectively gaining living space – space you’ve already paid for but perhaps weren’t fully using. Whether that becomes a dining area, study, playroom, or simply a relaxing space to enjoy your garden views, you’re getting more from your home.
The reduction in energy consumption also means you’re doing your bit for the environment. Lower heating bills mean reduced carbon emissions, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle without any sacrifice to your comfort levels.
Making Your Conservatory Work for You
If you’re currently living with a conservatory that’s either too hot, too cold, or costing too much to heat, a tiled roof replacement could be the solution you need. It’s a practical home improvement that addresses the fundamental issue of poor thermal performance while being more affordable than a complete conservatory rebuild.
At Dream Installations, we’ve helped countless homeowners across Lowestoft, Great Yarmouth, and the surrounding areas transform their conservatories into comfortable, energy-efficient spaces. We’d be happy to discuss whether a roof replacement would work for your property and provide an honest assessment of what’s involved.
For more information, or for a free, no obligation quote, you can:
- Call us on 01502 585 620
- Email us at info@dreaminstallations.org.uk
- Use our online contact form
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can a warm roof reduce my energy bills?
The exact savings will depend on your current roof type and how you use your conservatory, but many homeowners see a significant reduction in heating costs.
Can a tiled roof be fitted to any conservatory?
In most cases, yes. Our tiled roof systems can be integrated with existing conservatory structures, though we’ll need to assess your specific conservatory to confirm. The lightweight construction means it doesn’t place excessive load on the existing framework. We’ll carry out a thorough survey during a home visit to determine the best approach for your property.
Will I need planning permission for a tiled conservatory roof?
In most cases, replacing an existing conservatory roof doesn’t require planning permission, though building regulations do apply. Our tiled roofs are LABC-approved, meaning they meet all necessary building regulations. We’ll guide you through any regulatory requirements during the installation process, ensuring everything is compliant and giving you complete peace of mind.
