Beware of Changing to a Solid Roof

Last year we published a news article comparing the alternatives to having conservatory blinds, including the option of replacing the roof with a solid roof. In the news article we pointed out all of the “pro’s and con’s” for each option; but we have recently had some much greater problems with solid roofs pointed out to us by customers. It is best to be cautious of changing to a solid roof.  

Planning Permission

  Replacing a glass roof with a solid roof means you are likely to require planning permission as it will no longer be a conservatory; and you will have substantially affected the appearance. Conservatories are generally exempt from planning considerations (unless you have any restrictions). Whereas solid roof “extensions” (which is what it effectively would be) are not always exempt. We were recently told of a house purchase that failed to go through. This is because the local council stated that consent had not been obtained; and the original glass roof would have to be reinstated; or the structure would have to be taken down.

Building Regulations

  Similar to the above situation, Building Regulations are very strict in respect of heat-loss nowadays. Conservatories are generally exempt from this (unless extremely large or are open-plan to the home). Whereas solid roof structures must have a maximum area of glazing and the requisite insulation against heat loss. Virtually no structure originally built as a conservatory can conform to the current regulations without an extraordinary amount of other work being required. Unlike Planning Permission, which can be quite liberal in some cases. There is absolutely no way to avoid Building Regulations; and this would come up when you come to sell your property.

Plus…

  Bear in mind that your current conservatory is built off of another room and the daylight that it receives will be pretty much lost – not only will your “conservatory” be much darker, but your adjoining room will probably need to have the lights on all-day, unless you have some other side windows. So, before considering the option of replacing your glass roof, make sure that you consult your local Council and obtain all of the necessary permissions first.