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Conservatory Roofing systems
Top tips
- Avoid roofs made of PVCu only*
- Scrutinise the guarantee
- Pay particular attention to roof vents
One ridge design with variable pitch from 5° to
40° |
Variable pitch wall plate |
Slim sightlines to glazing bars and ridge beam enhancing
aesthetics |
Variable aluminium box eaves beam (5° to 40°).
Integral clip in ogee gutter system |
Image Credit: Quantal Conservatory Roof Systems
http://www.quantal.co.uk/consumer/consumer.htm
The roof is acknowledged to be one of the most important
parts of conservatory construction so it is helpful for
you to know something about the different roofing systems
so that you can ask appropriate questions of your supplier.
Firstly, establish what the roof made from – it
might be aluminium, steel, timber or PVCu – and whether
it will be able to accommodate 25mm / 35m polycarbonate
and glass roofs. Aluminium, thermally clad in PVCu, is
the most popular choice.
A purpose-built roofing system is a ‘must’ and
for this reason roofs made entirely from standard PVCu
window frame extrusion – even if they are fully reinforced – are
not recommended. They are not as strong and impenetrable
as roofs made from other materials.
You should specify a roof system that is thermally clad
or thermally broken to provide better insulation and
reduce the risk of condensation. Find out whether there is a range of guttering and rainwater
goods to complement the roof and, if you have a tricky
site, if there are appropriate purpose-made roofing components.
In practice, many conservatory suppliers use very similar
roofing systems so the choice often boils down to the quality
of a supplier’s installation, its warranties and
after-sales service. There is little point in having a
first-class roof if it is badly fitted.
Make sure that the guarantee on the roof is for the same
length of time as the rest of the framing and check that
the guarantee specifically mentions this.
Ask some probing questions, too, about any vents being
installed in your conservatory roof. Ensure that they comply
with British Standards, check whether there is the option
of manual and electric opening as well as thermostat and
rain sensor control units. Finally check the guarantee.
Avoid roofs made of PVCu only* - Very few conservatory
roofs, even those on PVCu Framed Conservatories, use a “PVCu
Only” roof. Many PVCu conservatories use aluminium
roof members, clad in PVCu.
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