How much does a conservatory roof replacement cost in 2023?

Reasons to replace your conservatory roof

There are plenty of reasons why you might want to replace the roof on your conservatory, including: 

• Your conservatory is old and has deteriorated over time 
• Your conservatory is damaged, and causes leaks, has visible cracks, or has been perforated due to hailstorms and bad weather 
• Your conservatory looks visually unappealing, bringing down the kerb appeal of your property 
• Your conservatory is bad at regulating temperature, making it inhabitable during most of the year due to the greenhouse effect that makes your conservatory too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter 
• Your conservatory is really noisy when it rains 
• Your conservatory was originally installed poorly, and now leaks or causes other problems  
• You’re thinking of using the space in a different way, and need to install a different kind of roof (such as a solid roof) 

Replacing the roof of your conservatory can give the whole structure a fresh, modern appearance, offering you the possibility to add new features like spotlights or skylights, whilst saving you money on a full conservatory replacement. 

If you think it’s time to replace your conservatory’s roof, let us know about your project, and speak to a skilled roof fitter today.

Conservatory roof materials

You may have done your research and realised that you’re interested in changing the material that the roof of your conservatory is made from. A change of this kind can completely revolutionise how you use your space, potentially increasing your conservatory’s energy control and how much sunlight enters your room.   

It’s important that you think about what you plan to use your conservatory for before you replace the roof. Tiled roofs let in less light but can enable you to use your conservatory as more of a functional space, such as for a dining room. 

On the other hand, glass roofs look nicer and offer a lot more natural light, though you will need to think about temperature control and rising energy bills. 

The three most common conservatory roof options are: 

Glass 

Glass roofs are a popular option for many homeowners. This is because they offer more natural light and are long lasting and durable. They’re also considered the most aesthetic. 

However, they are more expensive to replace than polycarbonate conservatory roofs. Non-glazed glass panelled conservatory roofs are not good at regulating temperature. 

Modern advances in glass technology mean that we now have specially coated glass that retains heat well whilst avoiding the ‘greenhouse effect’ that makes standard glass conservatories too hot in the summer and cold in the winter. This means that new glass conservatories can now be used all year round.  

Glass conservatories are built with a sturdy aluminium frame that is resistant to harsh weather. 

You could also opt for: 

• Self-cleaning glass, which reduces maintenance (glass conservatories are hard to keep clean) with a material that cleans itself using the sun (which breaks down dirt through a chemical reaction caused by ultraviolet rays) and rain (which then washes the dirt away) 
• Solar controlling glass, which protects your conservatory by reflecting the sun, protecting against ultra-violet damage, and reducing glare through a glazed tint that helps keep your space cool in the summer 

Polycarbonate  

You could choose to get a polycarbonate roof replacement. They are made of layered plastic sheeting that traps warm air through gaps in the material. 

Polycarbonate is a light and stable material that is both strong and durable. It is also a good option if you’re on a budget, as it’s affordable and cheaper than glass.  

However, it’s also less popular now, not only because it’s not very visually appealing, but also because it has poor sound insulation when it rains and can be prone to overheating. It also offers less security than glass and is generally less long-lasting. 

Solid tiled roof 

Alternatively, you could opt for a solid, tiled roof. This would remove the ‘conservatory look’ and turn your conservatory into more of an extension. 

The perks of a tiled roof include better temperature regulation for year-round, comfortable use. You can use the same tiles you have on your home’s roof to integrate your conservatory into your home, helping it to further resemble an extension. Lastly, a solid roof will turn your conservatory into a functional room and is likely to add the most value to your property. 

However, a tiled roof conservatory will let in less natural light, a big consequence of better temperature regulation. Tiled roofs sometimes require additional rafters and batons to support the weight of the roof, which can increase costs. However, this isn’t needed very often, as you can purchase lightweight models that are designed to sit on standard timber or uPVC conservatory frames. 

Solid roofs sometimes require building regulation approval, so make sure to check beforehand. 

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What is the average cost of a replacement conservatory roof?

If you leave your roof to deteriorate, it will only make your conservatory more inefficient and unpleasant to use. Though you will have to spend money to replace it, in the long run it will save you money in energy bills, lowering your carbon footprint as well. 

How much you end up spending on a replacement will depend largely on the type of conservatory roof you are having replaced, the size of the structure, and your choice of materials. 

The average cost of a 4m x 4m polycarbonate roof replacement is of between £6,000 and £13,000. 

How much you spend will be impacted by the type of roof you get. For example: 

• A 4m x 4m lean-to polycarbonate conservatory roof replacement will cost around £8,000 
• A 4m x 4m Edwardian polycarbonate conservatory roof replacement will cost around £9,500 
• A 4m x 4m Victorian polycarbonate conservatory roof replacement will cost around £9,500 

The average cost of a 4m x 4m glass roof replacement is of roughly £14,500, or anywhere from £9,500 to £20,000. 

The average cost of a 4m x 4m tiled roof replacement is of around £16,000. 

These price brackets are impacted by a range of factors, including: 

1. The type of roof you want to replace your conservatory with, including lean-to, Edwardian, Victorian, or a gable-end styles 

2. The size of your roof 

3. The number of hips, valleys, ridges, and rafters, and your choice of materials for these 

4. Your choice of roof covering, for instance, what kind of tiling  

5. Whether you want roof insulation, and how thick you want it to be  

You will also need to consider the cost of removing and disposing of your existing roof. This includes hiring skips and scaffolding. One 6-yard skip will cost around £265 to hire, though you may need more than one, depending on the size of your project. Four-metre-long scaffolding with one lift would cost you around £240.  

The average roofer will charge between £300 and £500 a day in (labour only) costs, depending on where you live and how much time the job will take. How easy your roof is to access, and how old your conservatory is, can also have an impact on costs. 

Are you looking to replace the roof of your conservatory? Let us know what you have in mind and get some free quotes today.

Conservatory insulation prices

You may find that you want to add to or improve your conservatory roof’s insulation. 

Internal conservatory roof insulation (insulation that is fitted between your conservatory roofs internal rafters and then covered with plaster or uPVC) will on average cost you between £1,000 and £2,000. 

Roof insulation panels, which are fitted on top of your existing roof, start at around £2,500 and can reach upwards of £6,000 depending on the size of your roof and your choice of materials. 

For instance, a 4m x 4m aluminium panel roof insulation will cost around £2,750, whilst the same size uPVC would cost £3,250, and plastered roof insulation would cost around £3,750. 

Replacing your conservatory roof is the most effective way to insulate your conservatory, as most heat escapes through the roof. 

Some other ways to keep your conservatory well insulated include: 

• Install blinds, curtains, roof drapings, or retractable awnings 
• Solar control film, a thin sheet that is applied to windows and which absorbs heat, retaining heat inside your conservatory whilst reducing glare from UV rays. 
• Place a rug onto the floor of your conservatory (the thicker the better) 
• Consider getting underfloor heating 

If you’re looking to get your conservatory properly insulated, speak to a skilled roof insulator, and get some free quotes today.

Do you need planning permission to replace your conservatory roof?

Conservatories are considered permitted development, and don’t require planning permission, subject to a few criteria, which can be found here. This means that if you are only replacing the roof on an existing conservatory, you will already have obtained the right planning permission. 

However, if you are changing a polycarbonate or glass conservatory roof into a solid, tiled one, this changes the classification of your conservatory from a temporary to a permanent structure.  

Building works that are classified as “change of use” sometimes require planning permission. You will need to check with your local authority before you hire tradespeople to replace your roof, to ensure that building works comply with the relevant regulations and permissions. 

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How to save money on a replacement conservatory roof

We recommend that you don’t attempt to cut corners when it comes to buying good quality durable materials that will last you a long time. However, there are definitely some ways you can save money on your roof replacement. 

1. Make the most of what you already have. If you aren’t planning on making radical changes to your conservatory roof, reusing the parts of your roof that are still in working order is a great way to save money on materials, and avoid creating waste. 

2. Weigh up all your options. Make sure you research what all your potential options are, and how different choices could impact the way in which you will end up using your conservatory. This will help you make the most of your money, and ensure you are pleased with the end result. 

3. Request several quotes. The best way to get your money’s worth for a new conservatory roof is by shopping around for multiple quotes before you settle on your builders and materials. Knowing the lower and upper cost brackets for your specific project is a good idea when it comes to planning for your new conservatory.  

4. Choose the most energy efficient options. Though these might cost you more up front, you are more likely to save money in the long run with lower energy bills if you opt to make your conservatory roof as energy efficient as possible.  

Always hire skilled labour. Getting your roof replaced properly the first time round will save you money down the line in repair costs and other complications. If you’re ready to speak to some skilled roof fitters, let us know what you have in mind, and get some free quotes today.