Most building designs love the idea of including a conservatory but few consider how to climate control the space. In the summer, the sun beams down into the conservatory, and the temperature rises to a point that makes the space unbearable to use. In the winter, the heating costs to maintain the temperature of the conservatory rise and the space becomes too cold to use. The issue is sometimes not the building itself, but the conservatory roofing production that has changed to better assist customers’ needs.
Defining the Problem
Summer heat gain can occur incredibly fast in a conservatory, having no peak to escape to. On a hot summers day a conservatory might reach a scorching 40°C. This is not a comfortable temperature for a relaxing summer day.
The problem of cold is the opposite situation, but with the same cause. Low-spec, single glazing leads to insufficient heat loss resistance and the space throughout the room is at risk of losing warmth through the conservatory roof during the winter. You are putting in the effort and cost to heat a space that has no thermal resistance and won’t hold temperature.
The Changes Modern Roofs Systems Have Brought
Modern systems are miles a head of just 10 or 15 years ago. Improvements with glazing and insulated panel technologies are the driving forces for the change. Some of the conservatory roof systems use solid insulated panels that are similar in structure to the paneling that you would use to insulate a roof in a traditional home. These panels control the heat gain and heat loss to maintain a comfortable temperature in different seasons.
The problem you are trying to solve can be approached in two ways at its most fundamental level: either replacement glazing with thermally efficient glass, or hybrid/fully solid tiled roofs.
The core solution to these problems differ in approach and costs.
The Chapman tiled roof systems have grown increasingly popular; these conservatory roof systems do not behave like a glass room, but rather more like an extension of sorts. This system is far more thermally efficient than a standard glass room, and the only significant trade off is the loss of natural light. Skylights or windows may be added to mitigate this shortcoming.
The Glass Option
Not everyone wants to lose the open and light feel of their glass room; however, there is a solution to this. Thermally broken conservatory roof systems utilise specialist glass. In all, these systems are a emmissive glass. The glass is designed to reflect heat into the room in the winter and to not let it enter in the summer. This is not an ideal solution in the extremes, though it is a significant improvement when compared to standard polycarbonate.
The framing matters too. The older aluminum framing systems conducted cold air, systems now have modern thermally broken systems that break the conduction and help reduce the cold airflow.
What to Think About Before Deciding
Of course, the most important factor is your budget. It is important to look beyond the end cost. A conservatory that is comfortable all year, will be much more valued, considered, and used.
Check your planning permission as this can be a lengthy process. It is worthwhile to check this early. Most conservatory roof systems considered planning fall within permitted development, and there are various thresholds according to the size and height relative to the property type and location of the conservatory.
There is no single answer to this question. A north-facing Victorian terrace will be completely different to a new south-facing build. Ideally, people should start their research with a solar exposure and heat loss assessment rather than finish with it. A system is often chosen based on a budget, and the system underperforms, and the customer is disappointed. Roof type is only one factor, there is the quality of the install, the frame, and how honest you are about the room’s relation to the sun.