A retrofit conservatory roof replaces an old glass roof or polycarbonate conservatory roof with a solid tiled roof, creating a comfortable space you can use all year round. The good news is that most conservatory frames can take the extra weight. If the foundations and the frames are in good condition, uPVC, timber and aluminium conservatories can be upgraded without being rebuilt.
At BSF Windows, we check every conservatory carefully before fitting a new solid conservatory roof. Here’s what we look for and how our lightweight roof system is designed to suit your existing structure.
Why most conservatories can take a solid roof
During a conservatory roof replacement, the frames and base stay in place and carry the weight of the new roof down to the ground. Tiles are heavier than glass panels or polycarbonate, so it’s natural to wonder how your current conservatory will cope.
In our experience, most conservatories are more than capable of supporting a solid conservatory roof. Upgrading an old conservatory rarely means starting again. What matters is checking the structure thoroughly before any work begins, so you know exactly where you stand.
What a structural survey actually involves
Our survey focuses on the parts of your conservatory that will carry the weight of the new roof:
- Foundations and base: We look for cracks or signs of movement where the conservatory meets the house, as weak foundations can shift under the weight of a heavier roof.
- Frames and corner posts: We make sure the frames are square, in good condition and securely fixed to the base.
- Door and window supports: We check that the supports around doors and windows can carry the roof load safely. This is particularly important around wide openings such as bifold doors or French doors.
Once we’re confident the structure is sound, we carry out a second survey to double-check measurements and designs. This means your new conservatory roof is made to fit exactly.
Frame materials: what we look for in uPVC, timber and aluminium
Different conservatory styles are built from different materials and each one plays a part in what we look for during the survey. uPVC is the material we see most often, but the table below shows how all three compare.
| uPVC frames | Timber frames | Aluminium frames | |
| Strength | Comes from the reinforcement inside the frame | Well-maintained timber can be very strong | Naturally rigid and handles extra weight well |
| What we check | Corner posts and any long spans between supports | Signs of rot or soft spots on the sills and around the base | The fixings and the condition of the base |
When reinforcement may be needed
Reinforcement isn’t often required, although we may recommend it if the survey finds:
- cracks or movement between the conservatory and the house
- wide openings without enough support
- rotten, damaged or poorly fixed frames
- an older conservatory with a base that wasn’t designed to carry much weight
In most cases, this simply involves strengthening a few posts or openings. If we find a problem with the foundations, we’ll explain what it means for your project and talk you through your options before you commit to anything.
Do I need building regulations approval for a solid roof?
Yes. A solid tiled roof needs to meet building regulations, so it’s important to choose a roof system that has been properly approved. Our tiled conservatory roofs are building control approved, giving you confidence that your new roof meets the required standards.
How our lightweight roof system suits existing conservatories
Our tiled conservatory roof replacement is a lightweight, fully insulated solution designed to place less strain on your existing frame. This means it suits most conservatories without major changes and benefits from quick installation times.
You’ll still enjoy all the benefits of a solid roof. Premium honeycomb thermal insulation reduces heat loss and keeps the room at a comfortable temperature all year round, which can help to lower your energy bills. Acoustic insulation also provides effective noise reduction, turning your conservatory into a peaceful extension of your home.
Every roof comes with a 25-year manufacturer guarantee, so you can upgrade with complete peace of mind.
Give your conservatory a new lease of life with BSF Windows
If you’re thinking about a retrofit conservatory roof, our experienced team is here to offer expert advice and help you make the right choice for your home. We’re always happy to talk through your options and provide a detailed quote and design for your replacement conservatory roof.
Get in touch for a free, no-obligation survey and quote:
- Online contact form: Contact BSF Windows
- Telephone: 01293 408 713
- Email: bsfwindows@gmail.com
- Visit our showroom: 31-33 Station Road, Horley, Surrey, RH6 9HW