A lot of people come to our website every month looking for information on how to remove snap down glazing bars. We will be looking to put up a video on this soon, but in the meantime, here are some instructions:
First, gather your tools. You will need a screwdriver set and a pair of long-nosed pliers.
Second, study the glazing bar end caps. Are they screwed into the end of the glazing bars (under cover caps)? If so, go to ‘How To Remove Glazing Bars Type A’
If not, go to ‘How To Remove Glazing Bars Type B’
How To Remove Glazing Bars Type A
Remove the end caps. Prize off any screw cover caps and unscrew the screws, taking care to retain the screws and washers.
Identify the clip-in tongues: You should see two pairs of clip-in tongues. A plastic pair, attached to the top cap, interlocks with a metal pair, attached to the base bar (aka the upstand).
Pinch the inner-connecting clip-in tongues together: Using the long-nosed pliers, pinch the plastic clip-in tongues together. This will release their connection to the outer pair of metal, upstanding tongues.
Pull the top cap upwards: Working away from you (and taking care not to over balance or lean on the polycarbonate panels), alternate pulling up the top cap with pinching the clip-in tongues.
Remove the base bar/upstand: Once you have removed the top cap, you can unscrew the base bar/upstand.
How To Remove Glazing Bars Type B
Remove the top cap. Gently insert the blade of a flat-head screwdriver between the end cap and the top cap. Working away from you (and taking care not to over balance or lean on the polycarbonate panels), prize off and remove the top cap.
Remove the end caps: The end caps will usually be screwed into the base bar (aka upstand). Unscrew and remove the end caps.
Remove the base bar/upstand: Working towards you, unscrew and remove the base bar/upstand
Disclaimer:
Working at height is inherently dangerous and you are responsible for your own safety. This article is provided for informational purposes only, and we recommend that you contact a specialist in conservatory roof replacements when removing conservatory roof panels or glazing bars.
Is your conservatory roof looking tired, or are you spending a fortune to keep it warm in the winter (or cool in the summer)? Perhaps it’s time to look at the various types of conservatory conversions on the market.
At the same time, who wants to lock up their conservatory over the winter because it’s too cold to sit out there?
Conservatory conversions are a popular way for homeowners to future-proof their home from up-and-down energy prices, but what material and which company should you choose?
Before we present a few conservatory roof options, let’s look at the second aspect we mentioned in the title: elegance.
Can conservatory conversions be elegant?
Appearances matter, and conservatory conversions come in a wide variety of forms. Do you prefer a traditional looking roof, one that is in keeping with the local area, or are you more attracted to a modern aesthetic?
Style options vary depending on the type of conservatory roof you choose, from the very limited frame style and colour options of polycarbonate conservatory roofs to the wide range of textures and shades available with tiled conservatory roofs.
We recommend you also think about the interior. Some types of conservatory conversions give you more scope for designing the inside space to suit your needs.
For example, if you want to create a media room, office or study, you probably want to avoid the glare of the sun and excessive noise from barking dogs, arguing neighbours or heavy rain showers. Polycarbonate and untreated glass conservatory roofs may be cheap, but they don’t make for a space that’s conducive to quiet enjoyment, working or studying.
Solid conservatory roofs with integrated insulation can solve these issues. You will also have a ceiling you can paint and embed spotlights in. This will give you more flexibility when it comes to designing your room.
Let’s now look at four different types of conservatory roof conversions and how they rank on the energy efficiency and elegance scales.
4 types of conservatory conversions
1. Polycarbonate
If you already have a polycarbonate roof, you may think that a simple like-for-like conservatory roof replacement will be enough to solve your energy efficiency problems, maybe opting for thicker sheets.
While you may get some benefit from a modern polycarbonate roof, you will still experience those extremes of temperature you will be used to. If you look at our graph below, even 35mm polycarbonate roofs are a lot less energy efficient than modern double glazed, triple glazed and insulated conservatory roofs.
Polycarbonate roofs are not elegant. You can sometimes choose the colour of the frame, but this is really the limit to your design flexibility.
Polycarbonate roofing won’t provide an elegant, energy-efficient interior either. The inevitable temperature fluctuations will not only make your conservatory uncomfortable for family and guests, it will also damage sensitive electrics and materials, limiting your options for design and functionality.
2. Glass
When it comes to energy efficiency, modern double and triple glazing are a much better option than polycarbonate but still come behind modern solid roof systems. You do, however, retain natural light so if you’re willing to compromise on efficiency this might be worth your consideration.
Glass conservatory roofs usually offer more in terms of style (both with the glass panels and the frames), while their natural sparkle adds elegance to the exterior.
If you are looking to design an elegant room, bear in mind that many fabrics and materials are sensitive to the effects of UV light. You will need to pay extra for UV-resistant glass to avoid fading and damage. The extra cost might make a solid conservatory roof more appealing.
3. Rubber
You may have seen advertisements for eco-friendly rubber conservatory roofs, and these are certainly more energy efficient than the two previous options.
The main drawback with rubber conservatory roofs is their appearance. If you’re looking for a practical, no-nonsense solution to saving energy and turning your conservatory into a functional space, then rubber may be an option for you.
But if you want something more elegant than a uniform, grey rubber sheet, consider investing in a tiled conservatory roof.
4. Tiles
Tiled conservatory roof replacements are a popular choice for south west conservatory owners partly because they tick both the energy efficiency and elegance boxes.
Tiled conservatory roofs, with integrated insulation, not only offer exceptional thermal efficiency properties, they also eliminate glare and severely reduce noise levels.
Out of all of the conservatory roof options presented so far, tiled conservatory roofs also offer the most flexibility in terms of style. You can choose the colour and finish of your tiles to fit in with the local surroundings or to make an elegant statement of your own.
Are you thinking about upgrading your existing conservatory roof with one of the popular ‘next-gen’ solid conservatory roofs that are popping up all over the south west?
There are several benefits to such a conservatory roof conversion, but one of the most important advantages in modern times is a significant improvement in energy efficiency.
Energy scarcity and climate change
We are living in uncertain times. As the global population’s demand for energy increases, securing the energy supply has become critical. As the war in Ukraine has demonstrated, any threats to that energy supply can lead to huge price rises.
While we can’t, as individuals, do much about these global events, we can do our best to limit our exposure by reducing our own energy consumption. After all, part of our energy bills are directly tied to the number of units of energy we consume.
Alongside the energy supply dilemma is the climate emergency. As governments look to meet drastic climate commitments, the way we use energy is likely to change. We don’t know what our future energy mix will contain let alone how much it will cost us. We may even have to endure energy rationing…who knows? Again, our best course of action is to limit our dependence on energy by improving our home’s efficiency.
Next year’s predicted super strong El Nino event could lead to more intense heatwaves, and homeowners with glass or polycarbonate conservatory roofs could be facing more summers with a boiling hot, unusable conservatories. Fans and aircon systems are an expensive solution, which is why investing in a solid conservatory roof now could be the wise homeowner’s best move.
How solid conservatory roofs are saving homeowners money
Simply speaking, solid, insulated conservatory roofs naturally regulate the temperature of your conservatory, reducing your reliance on expensive heating or cooling equipment (central heating, heaters, fans, AC units, etc.)
Most solid conservatory roof replacements feature lightweight roof panels or tiles containing polyurethane (PUR) or polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation.
These materials reduce the rate of heat transfer between the inside and the outside of your room. Most people will understand how this will keep their conservatory warmer in the winter. Hot air rises, but the solid roof will trap that air inside for much longer than a panel of double glazing (and much, much longer than a sheet of polycarbonate!)
The rate of heat transfer (thermal transmittance) through a material is measured in Watts per metre-Kelvin. This is more commonly known as its U-value. The lower the U-value, the better the insulation.
The situation in the summer needs a little more explanation. The reason that a conservatory with a polycarbonate or glass roof becomes unbearably hot and stuffy is a combination of poor insulation and the ‘greenhouse effect’. Light from the sun comes straight through the transparent panes. This heats up the ground and surroundings which release infra-red (heat energy). While heat energy will escape back through the roof, it does so at a slower rate than the incoming solar radiation, leading to a net heat increase. In fact, this is the same process that is behind global warming.
By blocking the sun’s rays, solid conservatory roofs keep the interior of the room pleasantly cool. In fact, you will find that the conservatory keeps a comfortably stable temperature all year round.
Are there alternatives to solid conservatory roofs?
While there are alternatives to solid conservatory roofs, they do come with their own challenges.
One alternative to be very wary of is overcladding. Some companies will offer to save you money on conservatory roof replacement by adding insulation to the inside of your existing glass or polycarbonate roof. This can lead to problems such as condensation, particularly if the installation isn’t carried out to the highest standard.
Solar control glass is a better alternative, especially for homeowners who want to keep their transparent roof. However, this is an expensive solution and will still be less energy efficient than a solid conservatory roof.
In summary, if saving money on your bills (while doing your bit for the planet) is your priority, solid, warm conservatory roofs are likely to be the most economical solution for you. If you’re looking to get the ball rolling, take a look at our article on how to choose between conservatory companies.
Conservatories with insulated roofs have sprung up all over the south west, piquing the interest of homeowners who still have their traditional polycarbonate or glass conservatory roofs. Is it really worth investing in conservatory roof replacements or are insulated conservatory roofs an unneccessary addition to a conservatory?
In this article, we’ve highlighted the pros and cons of both types of roofs to help you make an informed decision.
Traditional conservatory roofs – the benefits
Although most people reading this will already have a conservatory roof, if you are building a new conservatory, installing a traditional polycarbonate or glass roof will probably save you money in the short-term. These types of roofs are cheap to make and install.
Polycarbonate and glass conservatory roofs are also simple to put up, and so the work can be finished very quickly if you have a reliable contractor with plenty of availability.
But perhaps the biggest advantage of glass and polycarbonate conservatory roofs is their transparency. If allowing as much sunlight in as possible is your priority, this type of roof will probably suit you.
The limitations
One of the most common complaints about conservatories with polycarbonate or glass roofs is temperature fluctuation. This is directly due to the lack of insulation. Heat energy will quickly enter and exit your conservatory through the glass or polycarbonate panes.
In the winter, or at night, when sunlight is in short supply, heat will be quickly sucked out of the room. During a hot summer’s day, the sun’s rays will heat up the room to uncomfortable levels, and the greenhouse effect will trap that hot air inside until the night arrives again.
In the winter, or at night, when sunlight is in short supply, heat will be quickly sucked out of the room. During a hot summer’s day, the sun’s rays will heat up the room to uncomfortable levels.
As a result, conservatories with traditional roofs are uncomfortable to work, play or relax in for most of the year. Furniture, fabrics and electronics are also sensitive to extremes of temperature, which rules the conservatory out as a home office or study.
If your conservatory isn’t thermally separated from your home, you have another problem. As heat escapes from your conservatory roof, more heat is drawn in from the adjoining room. If your heating system is controlled by a thermostat, your boiler will be firing more without you realising it – until the monthly heating bill lands on the doormat!
Another disadvantage of standard polycarbonate or glass roofs is noise. With no insulation to absorb sound waves, everything from dogs barking to domestic arguments to heavy rain will intrude on your space. While you can get soundproof glass for your conservatory roof, this reduces those installation cost savings.
Insulated conservatory roofs – the benefits
The main benefit of insulated conservatory roofs is temperature regulation. A layer of insulation reduces the heat transfer rate (symbolised by a material’s U-value), slowing down the release of heat in the winter, and preventing uncomfortable heating in the middle of the summer. You will be able to enjoy year round comfort.
Temperature regulation leads directly on to a second huge benefit of an insulated conservatory roof: you will find yourself with a room that you can decorate, furnish, equip and use 365 days a year. You will effectively have added an extra room to your home. Furniture and equipment (e.g., computers and sound systems) that would once have been impractical because of sun exposure and temperature fluctuations can now be designed in to the space. Since insulated conservatory roofs provide you with a proper ceiling, you can also install handy spotlights. Whether you want a home office, a media centre or a playroom, you can have it.
Furniture and equipment that would once have been impractical because of sun exposure and temperature fluctuations can now be designed in to the space.
Second, the added layer of insulation will reduce the need for heating your conservatory, and if your conservatory is thermally connected to your home, this will stop it acting as a heat vacuum. Whether you use a thermostat or regulate your home’s temperature manually, the net result will be lower heating bills and, for those connected to mains gas or electric, a reduced carbon footprint.
Third, an insulated conservatory roof will absorb noise from outside. No more yapping dogs, arguing neighbours or deafening rain or hail storms. Whether you are working or relaxing, you can enjoy peace and quiet.
The limitations
Of course, no conservatory roof will be perfect. The initial costs of installing a solid conservatory roof will be a bit higher because of the energy efficient materials used and the complexity of installation. However, this will soon start paying itself back in terms of reduced heating costs.
Installation time will usually be longer, although many conservatory roof conversions specialists can complete the work within a week.
Another inevitable result of installing warm conservatory roofs is a reduction in natural light. Even so, many homeowners have discovered that the special ceiling paints used by their installers have left their conservatory feeling just as bright – if not brighter – than before.
Ultimately, the decision will come down to your priorities as a family. If you are looking to transform your conservatory into a comfortable space that you can use all year round, insulated conservatory roofs are definitely worth your consideration.
What are warm conservatory roofs, and why are they popular with savvy homeowners across the south west and further afield? This article will explain all.
What are warm conservatory roofs?
Warm conservatory roofs (also referred to as solid conservatory roofs or insulated conservatory roofs) are energy efficient conservatory roofs which include a solid external surface and in-built insulation.
How warm conservatory roofs guarantee a comfortable experience
When many people imagine a conservatory roof, they think of polycarbonate or glass panels set within a wooden or PVC frame. These are still very common, but UK homeowners are gradually being won over by a new generation of warm conservatory roofs.
There are many reasons for this, but one of the main benefits is the way warm conservatory roofs even out temperature variations to ensure a comfortable environment all year round.
That’s because a warm conservatory roof is a roof with a low U-Value.
A bit about U-values
Without getting too technical, the easier heat passes through a surface, the higher its ‘U-value’. This is measured in watts per square metre Kelvin (W/m2K).
If you’re thinking about replacing your conservatory roof, you only need to know that the lower the U-value the better. More specifically, the lower the U-value, the warmer your conservatory will stay in the winter (less heat lost), and the cooler it will stay in the summer (less heat admitted).
We created the handy graphic below which compares U-values between various conservatory roof options.
The link between warm conservatory roofs, low energy bills and a healthy planet
Another reason warm roofs are increasingly popular is the effect they tend to have on household energy bills.
Many conservatories, especially older ones, are not thermally separated from the rest of their home. This means that heat is sucked out of the adjoining room to replace the heat being lost by the conservatory roof.
If you use a thermostat to regulate the temperature of your rooms, your heating system will be working harder to maintain that temperature. If you don’t, you will probably find yourself turning on the heating more regularly. Either way, it’s costing you money.
By choosing a warm conservatory roof, you are likely to find that the whole house stays a bit warmer. You could even find yourself saving hundreds of pounds in lower heating bills over time.
Won’t a cheap cladover achieve the same effect?
This is a fair question, but while cladovers are cheaper than conservatory roof replacements, their insulation properties can vary widely between suppliers.
Cladovers are also more difficult to install correctly, and any mistakes can be catastrophic. Poorly installed panels can quickly cause issues with condensation, leading to mould and other complications. The integrated units that comprise warm conservatory roofs are a much safer bet.
Further benefits of warm conservatory roofs
If you’re still on the fence about investing in a warm conservatory roof, here are some more benefits you can look forward to:
Take the first step towards getting yourself an attractive new warm conservatory roof by calling Roofworx Southwest on 0800 246 5618 and asking for Mick (or visit the Roofworx Southwest contact page).
What’s more, as an independent conservatory roof conversions company, Roofworx Southwest are not tied into any of the well-known conservatory roof systems, so they can provide you with a solution tailored specifically to your needs.
The number one benefit of having a tiled conservatory roof has to be their heat-saving qualities. Unlike traditional glazed conservatory roofs, which can be prone to excessive heat loss in winter, tiled roofs use high-quality insulation materials and airtight construction.
Tiled roofs therefore help to reduce heat loss through the roof and prevent drafts, resulting in significant cost savings on heating bills, as less energy is required to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Tiled roofs offer a wide range of styling options, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their conservatories. With a variety of tile colours, textures and finishes available, homeowners can choose a style that complements their existing architecture and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of their property.
Tiled roofs can also be customized to suit specific design requirements, such as the addition of skylights or roof lanterns, which can create a bright and airy feel.
In contrast, alternative roofing options, such as polycarbonate or glass roofs, offer limited styling options and can appear less visually appealing. Overall, tiled conservatory roofs provide more versatility and flexibility in terms of styling, allowing homeowners to create a space that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.
Tiled Conservatory Roofs Benefit #3 – Strength and Durability
Tiled roofs are made from strong materials like clay, slate or concrete that, unlike polycarbonate and glass, won’t be easily damaged by hail, heavy rain or strong winds.
Correctly installed tiled roofs are also more structurally sound than other types of roof. They are designed to distribute the weight of the roof evenly across the structure, which helps to prevent sagging or collapse. Glass and polycarbonate roofs can put a lot of stress on the conservatory frame, which can lead to problems over time.
Glass and polycarbonate roofs require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them looking their best and to prevent damage. Tiled roofs, on the other hand, are much more low-maintenance and can last for many years without needing any special care.
Just because you are replacing a transparent roof for an opaque one, it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your light interior. Providing your installer uses a reflective light-coloured paint, you can ensure minimal reduction in the ambient light of your room.
This may seem unbelievable, but some conservatory roof replacements companies have even been told, by their clients, that their room has felt lighter since installing a tiled roof.
Tiled Conservatory Roofs Benefit #5 – Quieter Space
Tiled roofs can also help to reduce noise pollution, as they are much more effective at absorbing sound than glazed roofs.
Taken together, the qualities of tiled roofs detailed above make them an attractive option for homeowners looking to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of their homes.
‘Can I replace my conservatory roof with a tiled roof?’ is a question asked my many homeowners who are unhappy with the look or function of their existing – often polycarbonate conservatory roof.
The good news is that most conservatories are suitable for this type of roof replacement work and in most cases you won’t even need to be concerned about obtaining Planning Permission. That’s because conservatory roof replacements fall under the permitted development category.
Permitted development and conservatory roof replacements
Permitted development is a right that is granted to most homes. In some cases (e.g. if a house is in a National Park), permitted development will not apply and the rights can actually be removed in certain circumstances. However, this is the exception not the rule.
You will also need to make sure that your roof conversion ideas will not cause your conservatory to fall outside of the permitted development scope. This is unlikely but can happen (e.g. if you have a side conservatory which is exactly four metres high and the new roof will cause you to exceed that height).
5 reasons to say ‘yes’ to a tiled conservatory roof replacement
if you are on the fence about replacing your old polycarbonate roof with a new tiled option, here are five big reasons why many people choose that route:
Reduced energy bills. Modern tiled conservatory roofs have much better thermal efficiency ratings. That means yoiu won’t have to crank the heat up in the winter (or the air con in the summer).
A room you can use all year round. Whatever you want to use your conservatory for, you will be able to. Under a dated polycarbonate roof, most conservatories are too hot and stuffy in the summer and freezing cold in the winter. With a tiled replacement roof you can look forward to more balanced temperatures and a more useful space.
Improved acoustics. The sound of rain belting down on a polycarbonate roof can also make conservatories uncomfortable to stay in for long periods. A tiled replacement will drastically reduce that sound.
Low maintenance. Modern tiled conservatory roofs are designed to be easy to look after and are less susceptible to damp and mould growth.
Kerb appeal. If you’re tired of being the ‘house with the scruffy conservatory,’ you can boost the aesthetics – and value – of your property with a replacement roof.
Make the change in 2020!
If you are one of the growing number of dissatisfied conservatory owners asking, ‘can I replace my conservatory roof with a tiled roof?’ the short answer is absolutely! in addition to the nationally advertised firms you see on TV, there are also plenty of local roofing specialists who would be delighted to quote you for a replacement.
Image credit for Can I replace my conservatory roof with a tiled roof? – Chris Rose/123rf
Supalite Roof Installation is usually carried out by approved installers but if you have decided to give it a go yourself or are just interested in how the system comes together, read on…
Disclaimer:
Although we’ve done our best to provide accurate information in this article we cannot guarantee its accuracy. We also have no relationship with Supalite so please do not take this Supalite roof installation guide as official instructions. Any DIY project involving the use of ladders is inherently dangerous. Use suitable footwear, ladders and other equipment and follow all relevant health and safety instructions. If in any doubt, consult a professional roofer or conservatory roof conversions expert.
Step 1: Insert Soffit Board: The 1000mm soffit board needs to be slotted in between the pvc fascia and aluminium ring beam before anything else. Slot in and cut to size.
Step 2: Attach Fascia to Baton: Using poly pins, fix the fascia board to the wooden baton. Clip the gutter brackets into place, sealing as necessary, drill the gutter box at about 600mm intervals (NOTE: Some people find adding the gutter at this stage is easier than waiting until the end.)
Step 3: Place Rear Ring Beam: With the soffit in place you are now ready to slide the rear ring beam section into place and screw it to the wall.
Step 4: Connect Sections: You will find cleats fitted on the corners of each section. Use these to join the sections together and then fix with the supplied screws. Align ring beam with the front face of the windows with no aluminium showing. Any overlap needs to be on the inside as this will then be covered with insulation later. Secure using 100mm Baypole screws; these are not supplied.
Step 5: Fit Rafters and Ridge: Attach the end plates to the ridge. Fit the rafters to the ring beam to the relevant design plan. Use the 30mm nuts and bolts supplied. Fit the rafter to the ridge using the same.
Step 6: Fit Last Rafters to End Plate: Fit the final jack rafters into the ridge end plates and secure using the 30mm bolts.
Step 7: Attach Standard Rafters to Ridge End Plate: Attach the hip rafter brackets to the the jack rafter and attach the hip rafters. Again, use the 30mm bolts.
Step 8: Fit Insulation: Once you have finished constructing the framework, slot in the numbered pre-cut 100mm insulation panels.
Step 9: Cover with Plywood: Using 35mm nails or screws to secure, cover the framework with the pre-cut 12mm plywood panels.
Step 10:Attach Plywood to Ring Beam: Insert the plywood into the slot on the ring beam using self-drilling screws to fix.
Step 11: Fit Breathing Felt: Cover with breathing felt, leaving at least 50mm to run into the gutter (this can be trimmed back later).
Step 12: Attach Batons, Tile Cleat and First Tiles to Ring Beam: Fix the batons and then attach the tile cleat flush to the bottom of the batons. Cut and fix the first tiles onto the ring beam, hooking them over the end.
Step 13: Complete Tiling: Tile the roof and secure with at least four 35mm nails or screws at the top of each tile. Mark out any holes for the roof light at this stage.
Step 14: Fit Batons for Ridge and Hip Covers: Add the timber batons ready for the ridge and hip covers.
Step 15: Add Ridge and Hip Covers: Cut the ridge and hip caps and fit to the ends of the batons. Use the appropriate jointers (four or five-way) and ridge and hip covers to complete the roof.
Step 16: Add Gutter and Trims: Clip the gutter brackets to the ring beam and fit the gutter. Add trims to the corners and middle of the fascia.
SupaLite Roof Installation Guide: Video
To see exactly how the magic happens, watch this YouTube SupaLite Roof Installation Guide
Reaching an inaccessible part of the conservatory roof or house
Removing conservatory roof panels is a relatively simple process but can be complicated by factors such as access and degraded materials (e.g. brittle plastic, seized screws, etc.)
Disclaimer:
Working at height is inherently dangerous and you are responsible for your own safety. This article is provided for informational purposes only, and we recommend that you contact a specialist in conservatory roof replacements to remove your conservatory glazing bars and replace roof panels.
This article is about removing conservatory roof panels made from polycarbonate in uPVC/aluminium roof systems. Instructions are not meant for glass roofs or timber frames and may not be accurate for all types of uPVC/aluminium systems. If your roofing system is still under guarantee we recommend calling out the original fitter to rectify any problems.
1. Remove Rubber Gasket
Prior to removing the conservatory roof panels, carefully remove the rubber gaskets between the aluminium glazing bars and the glass. It is best to replace the gaskets with new ones when you replace the panels.
2. Remove Glazing Bar End Caps
At the edge of the roof you will find end caps covering the glazing bars. These are usually fixed using a screw. Removing the screw and end cap will reveal the inside of the glazing bar/glazing bar cap combination.
See our companion article for more detailed guidance on how to remove snap down glazing bars, especially if your end caps aren’t screwed in at the end.
3. Prize Up Glazing Bar Cap
This is usually the trickiest part of removing conservatory roof panels. Using a screwdriver (or ideally a special glazing bar cap removal tool), CAREFULLY work the plastic cap apart from where it joins the toothed aluminium glazing bar. Make sure you are holding the polycarbonate panels in place.
4. Slide Out Polycarbonate Roof Panels
The panels should now slide out. If silicone or adhesive has been used they may require some careful freeing.
It is a common problem in South West conservatories: the environment is stifling hot in summer and Arctic in the winter, reducing the usable capacity of the home.
If this is your issue, it is more than likely due to the roof – usually glass or polycarbonate with poor insulation properties. There are now half a dozen or so big companies plus a host of smaller conservatory firms specialising in installing roof replacement systems, saving homeowners money on full conservatory replacements or extension conversions.
In previous blog posts we have carried out a SupaLite Roof Review (SupaLite are popular in the South West) and also looked briefly at a number of Supalite Roof System alternatives. This post looks at another very popular system in these parts – the Guardian solid roof, epitomised by the Guardian Warm Roof system which includes integrated insulation.
The Guardian Warm Roof is formed of over 20 components each supplied by different fabricators. After the old roof is removed, a ring beam is placed on top of the underlying structure on top of which the roof itself, connected to a light aluminium frame, is connected. The roof can be tiled using either MetroTile or Tapco synthetic products.
GUARDIAN SOLID ROOF REVIEW: THE PROS
Along with SupaLite, Guardian publish a thermal co-efficient (u-value) of 0.18 W/m2K. The lower the u-value, the slower heat transfers through the roof’s materials, avoiding the heat extremes experienced by many conservatory owners. Even a triple-glazed glass roof will only give you a u-value of around 2 while a single 4mm pane of glass increases that number to a mighty 6.
Guardian are LABC registered with does offer a big advantage when it comes to building regulations approval. Conservatory roof replacements are a grey area when it comes to building regs but the design of the Guardian solid roof system has clearly ticked enough boxes to make building control officials happy. What this translates to in practice is likely to be lower rates and a less time-consuming inspection process that is focused on the underlying structure rather than the roof itself.
Guardian state that their Warm Roof system is quick to fit with a 3-4 day timescale published on their website. There are a wide range of tile designs and window types to suit various styles including Edwardian, Victorian or lean-to conservatories. Skylights and internal spotlights are all possible depending on your needs and budget.
And for those who trust in numbers, Guardian roofs are in situ in over 20,000 homes making them one of the most popular replacement roof suppliers.
GUARDIAN SOLID ROOF REVIEW: THE CONS
One thing to be aware of with Guardian is that their work is carried about by Team Guardian members -‘ trusted’ contractors who have gone through the necessary approval process . Although the majority of contractors will respect that relationship and do everything to meet the Guardian standards, there is always the risk that your fitters are the exception.
Guardian make it clear on their website that it is the homeowners responsibility to check references and ensure that an insurance-backed guarantee is in place for the work. While online reviews are generally very positive, there are the odd stories of poor service and corner-cutting. It is worth bearing in mind that your contractor forms a layer of insulation between the public and Guardian and this could have an impact if things go wrong.
This question of accountability is one reason why some people might decide on a local conservatory roof conversions firm.
GUARDIAN SOLID ROOF INSTALLATION IN THE SOUTH WEST
Guardian are a national company and, wherever you are in the South West you shouldn’t have to travel more than 15 miles to find your nearest Team Guardian member. In most cases (including Plymouth, Exeter, Torquay, Bristol, etc.) you will find a number of options well within a 10 mile radius.
