Conservatory Roof Conversion: Glass vs Tiled 2026
A conservatory roof conversion replaces a cold, noisy polycarbonate or single-glazed roof with a warm tiled roof or high-performance glass. It is the single biggest upgrade you can make to an underused conservatory. Here is how the options compare on cost, warmth and light — and how to choose.
Planning the work? Check what it usually costs, or work out your own estimate. The free quote form is at the top of this page.
Conservatory roof options compared
A conservatory roof conversion means replacing the existing roof — usually tired polycarbonate or single-glazed glass — with a warmer, better-performing one. The three mainstream choices are a solid tiled roof (warm, quiet, usable year-round), a modern glass roof (maximum light with self-cleaning, solar-control glazing), and upgraded polycarbonate (the cheapest refresh, but the weakest thermally).
What a roof conversion costs in 2026
As a rough guide for 2026, expect £4,000–£8,000 for a replacement glass roof, £6,000–£12,000 for a solid tiled roof with an insulated internal ceiling, and £2,500–£4,500 for a straight polycarbonate re-sheet. Size, existing frame condition and whether Building Control sign-off is needed all move the figure.
Glass vs tiled: which is right for you
Choose a tiled roof if the conservatory runs too hot in summer and too cold in winter and you want a true extra room. Choose glass if you value light and don't want to lose the airy feel — modern solar-control glass is a big step up on old glazing. Polycarbonate only really makes sense as a budget stop-gap.
How to choose and compare quotes
1. Decide your priority
Warmth and quiet point to tiled; light and openness point to glass. Fix this first — it drives everything else.
2. Check building regulations
Solid roofs add weight and change the thermal envelope, so they usually need Building Control approval and a structural check of the existing frames and base.
3. Match the roof to your frames
Confirm the existing walls and frames can carry a tiled roof, or budget for reinforcement. A good installer surveys this before quoting.
4. Get three like-for-like quotes
Compare on the same roof type, glazing or tile spec and internal finish so you judge quality, not just price.
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