Yes, you can absolutely put a new roof on an old conservatory, and for many homeowners, it’s one of the smartest ways to transform a tired, uncomfortable space into a stylish, energy-efficient room you can actually use all year round.
Old conservatory roofs, especially those made from polycarbonate or single-glazed glass, are known for being freezing in winter, boiling in summer, and often prone to leaks, draughts, and high heating bills. Replacing the roof – rather than rebuilding the entire structure – is not only more affordable, it’s quicker and far less disruptive.
Before diving in, it’s worth understanding what’s involved. Unfortunately, there are still cowboy companies out there promising “cheap” solutions that cut corners — and cost homeowners more in the long run. So, before you get any quotes, make sure you know what you’re looking for in a replacement roof and what regulations apply.
If your conservatory is sitting unused for most of the year, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about putting a new roof on a conservatory – including your options, costs, legal requirements, and how to get it done properly.
Can You Replace a Conservatory Roof?
Yes, changing the roof on a conservatory is possible in most cases, provided the existing base and frame are structurally sound.
A full rebuild is rarely necessary. Instead, a professional installer will carry out a structural survey to ensure your conservatory can safely support a new tiled or glass roof. This is especially important if you’re replacing a lightweight polycarbonate roof with a heavier, insulated system.
Be cautious of the dangers of clad-over systems. These quick fixes from unregulated builders may look cheaper upfront but can cause issues like condensation, poor insulation, and even invalidate your warranty or insurance.
Why Replace Your Conservatory Roof?
Replacing your conservatory roof isn’t just about improving how it looks — it’s about improving how you live.
Traditional one-piece polycarbonate or glass roofs simply don’t insulate well, which means the space is often unusable unless the weather is just right. On cold days, you’re losing heat and money. And from the outside, an old roof can make the whole house look tired.
Leave it too long, and the roof will keep making your conservatory uninviting. But with the right replacement, you can unlock a room that works in every season.
Key Benefits:
- Better thermal efficiency – eliminate the “freezer in winter, sauna in summer” issue
- Lower energy bills – better insulation reduces heating and cooling costs
- Year-round usability – turn your conservatory into a true living space
- Boost kerb appeal and value – especially when choosing a solid tiled roof
- Less maintenance – modern roofing systems are weather-resistant and longer lasting
Quote from a SupaLite Tiled Conservatory Roof Customer
What Are the Best Roof Options for an Old Conservatory?
We keep mentioning how choosing the right conservatory roof for your replacement is essential, but what are your actual options?
Choosing a new conservatory roof can seem like an overwhelming task. Not only do you need to consider the style and colour of your replacement conservatory roof, but you also have to make sure that it is installed correctly.
Well, there are three main options when replacing a conservatory roof: solid tiled roofs, glass roofs, and polycarbonate. Each has pros and cons, but not all are created equal.
Solid Conservatory Roofs
A solid roof system uses tiles to turn your conservatory into a structure that resembles an actual building, making it feel like a part of your home, rather than an after thought. They look professional, homely, are customisable to suit your taste and have a ton of benefits. There’s a reason they’re the most popular choice for homeowners looking to upgrade:
- Excellent insulation — keeps temperatures stable year-round
- Transforms conservatory into a seamless home extension
- Multiple finishes — including ExtraLight tiles and slate options
- Optional glass features like SkyVista panels or roof lanterns for added light
- Long-term durability and Building Regulations compliance
A solid roof adds real value to your home, not just in comfort but in resale potential. It’s the best option for those who want a room that feels like part of the house.
Glass Roofs
If you’re looking for that traditional conservatory roof that’s light and airy, a glass roof is a good choice. But ONLY if you choose a roof with energy-efficient glass! This style of roof will be much better at controlling the temperature of your conservatory than a polycarbonate roof will be. They’re ideal for those who want to retain light and openness while improving performance.
- Better insulators than polycarbonate
- Maintain the bright, airy feel of a traditional conservatory
- The SupaLite S2 Roof combines style with substance — offering up to 36mm glass glazing, and sleek aluminium detailing
- Still susceptible to some seasonal temperature swings (less than older systems, but more than tiled roofs)
Glass roofs strike a balance – they’re modern, bright, and efficient when designed correctly.
Polycarbonate Roofs
Polycarbonate roofs are the most affordable option and were once the most common. However, as people realise the problems that come along with polycarbonate roofs, they aren’t as popular as they used to be.
While they are cheap and flexible, a polycarbonate roof has a lot of disadvantages.
- Cheapest option initially
- Poor insulation – hot in summer, cold in winter
- Noisy in the rain and more likely to leak
- Harder to clean and often discolours over time
- Not recommended for long-term comfort
Quote from a SupaLite Tiled Conservatory Roof Customer
Quick Comparison
Do You Need Planning Permission or Building Regulations?
In most cases, you don’t need planning permission to replace your conservatory roof, as long as the overall footprint and height don’t change.
However, you will need Building Regulations approval, especially for solid tiled roofs. These rules ensure your new roof is safe, structurally sound, and thermally compliant.
What’s the difference? Well, if your conservatory already exists, you don’t need planning permission because you aren’t building anything. However, you do need to ensure your roof complies with building regulations. So yes, you need to consider building regulations on a conservatory, as well as any other adaptation to your home.Want to know more? Read our full guide to conservatory roof Building Regulations
How Much Does It Cost to Put a New Roof on a Conservatory?
The cost to change a conservatory roof depends on size, shape, material, and any upgrades (like integrated lighting or glass panels). There’s no one-size-fits-all price! Solid tiled roofs typically cost more upfront, but they provide:
- Lower long-term energy bills
- Increased property value
- A truly usable extra room
While glass roofs are usually mid-range in cost, polycarbonate is cheapest but far less efficient, meaning more heating and repair expenses over time.
To understand value more than price alone, it’s important to compare lifespan, energy savings, and comfort levels.To get a detailed price, get a quick quote from a professional.
How Can I Make Sure My New Roof is Efficient and Safe?
The best way to ensure your replacement conservatory roof is both safe and efficient is to choose a reputable company. It might be tempting to go for the cheapest price, but when it comes to structural work on your home, it’s important to have the proper regulations in place. It’s always better to buy right than buy twice.
If you’re considering replacing your conservatory roof yourself, we strongly recommend against doing so. Unless you’re a trained expert, you’re likely to face some issues with such a big job.
How to Choose a Reputable Conservatory Roof Installer
When it comes to conservatory roof replacements, the installer matters just as much as the roof system you choose. Poor workmanship or clad-over jobs can result in major issues down the line, from damp and draughts to invalidated warranties.
That’s why SupaLite only works with certified, trusted installers.
Why Use a SupaLite Approved Independent Installer?
- Fully Building Regulations compliant
- Insurance-approved systems and materials – no clad-overs
- Professional conduct – no cowboy builders
- Direct-from-supplier – no markups or dodgy middlemen
Quote from a SupaLite Tiled Conservatory Roof Customer
Ready to Upgrade Your Conservatory?
Replacing your old conservatory roof is one of the smartest ways to improve your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and value – without the cost or hassle of a full rebuild.
Explore the full range of SupaLite Roof Replacement options
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