Traditional conservatory roofs are often made from a type of plastic called polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a strong and durable material, but it does have some drawbacks. Here are some of the problems with perspex conservatory roofs:
Poor insulation
Polycarbonate is not a good insulator, so conservatories with perspex roofs can be very cold in the winter and very hot in the summer. This can lead to condensation and mold growth, which can damage the conservatory and make it uncomfortable to use.
Often, a polycarbonate conservatory is unusable for at least 50% of the year when it’s either boiling hot or freezing cold with condensation that turns icy. The mold can cause damage to the internal windows, seals and sills not to mention your blinds and soft furnishings.
Noisy when it rains
Perspex conservatory roofs are a very good conductor of sound, so conservatories which can be very noisy when it rains. This can be very annoying, especially if you’re trying to relax. When you consider the amount of rain we have in the UK – this could be more than a small problem!
Susceptible to damage
Polycarbonate is a relatively soft material, so it can be easily scratched or dented. This can make the conservatory look unsightly and can also reduce its lifespan. It also gets covered in green algae in the summer and doesn’t fair well when subjected to the elements. You will need to get the roof cleaned like you do with your windows if you don’t want to be looking up at dirt and debris.
Not UV-resistant
Did you know that polycarbonate is not as UV-resistant as other materials, such as glass? This means that the roof can discolour and become brittle over time, which can lead to leaks and other problems.
The Alternative Solution
The good news is there is an alternative solution. By replacing the current roof with a thermally efficient, fully insulated Guardian™ Warm Roof, your conservatory will become a comfortable, quiet and enjoyable living space. It will withstand the extremes of British weather and provide you with a room that you can enjoy all year round whether it be somewhere to relax, a space to entertain, or a home office. Not only that, but they look great too! Just take a look at some examples and how your conservatory could look!
If you have a polycarbonate conservatory roof that you would like replaced then get in touch with us to discuss. We can assess your current conservatory and discuss your options when it comes to style, colour etc. You could be enjoying your new look conservatory in no time at all.