Which replacement conservatory roof is the best?

For most homeowners, the “best” replacement conservatory roof is the one that fixes the main problem with the room.

If you want the conservatory to feel comfortable and usable all year, a solid tiled roof is usually the best option. It offers the biggest improvement in insulation, noise reduction, and the overall “proper room” feel.

That said, glass can be a great choice if you want a brighter space and prefer a lighter roof style. Polycarbonate is normally best only when budget is the main driver and you want a simple replacement.

Before and after - polycarbonate conservatory roof replaced with solid tiled roof in Reading

The three main roof types

Most replacement roofs fall into one of these categories:

• Glass roofs

• Polycarbonate roofs

• Solid tiled roofs (warm roof systems)

Each has pros and cons, so here’s a clear comparison.

Glass conservatory roofs are best for light and modern looks

A modern glass roof can feel like a big step up from older polycarbonate. It looks clean, lets in lots of daylight, and can suit contemporary homes.

Why homeowners choose glass

• Brighter room with more natural light

• Smart, modern appearance

• Good upgrade from old polycarbonate

Things to consider

• It can still get hot in strong sun if the glazing spec is not right

• It is not usually as insulating as a solid warm roof

• Noise in heavy rain can still be noticeable compared to a solid roof

• A solid tiled roof can still have skylights for more natural light

Glass is often best when you love the “conservatory feel” and want to keep that open, light look.

Large conservatory roof replacement in Berkshire with tiles and skylights

Polycarbonate conservatory roofs are best for budget replacements

Polycarbonate is usually the cheapest way to replace a conservatory roof. It can work well if you simply need a refresh, or if the conservatory is not a key living space.

Why homeowners choose polycarbonate

• Lowest upfront cost

• Quick, straightforward swap in many cases

• Keeps a similar look to older conservatories

Things to consider

• Comfort is often still an issue in hot and cold weather

• Rain noise can be loud

• Some polycarbonate roofs discolour over time

Polycarbonate is normally the “best” option only when cost is the priority and you do not need the space to feel like a main room.

Solid tiled conservatory roofs are best for year-round comfort

If you want the biggest improvement in how the conservatory feels, a solid tiled roof is usually the best option.

This type of roof is built with proper insulation and an internal ceiling finish, so the space feels more like an extension than a traditional conservatory.

Why homeowners choose tiles (a solid roof)

• Better insulation for winter warmth

• Helps reduce overheating in summer

• Much quieter in rain

• Creates a finished internal ceiling, so it feels more like part of the home

• Often available with manufacturer-backed guarantees, depending on the roof system and the products used

Things to consider

• Higher upfront investment than glass or polycarbonate

• You may want roof windows or lighting to keep the room bright

• The existing conservatory may need checks or reinforcement to support a solid roof

For homeowners who want to use the conservatory daily, tiles are normally the best balance of comfort, practicality, and long-term satisfaction.

Small conservatory roof replacement in Reading with tiles and skylights

Quick verdict, which conservatory roof is best for most homes?

If you are deciding purely on performance, this is the typical ranking:

1. Solid tiled warm roof (best overall for comfort and everyday use)

2. High-quality glass roof (best for light and a modern conservatory feel)

3. Polycarbonate roof (best for budget-only replacements)

In Reading and Berkshire, where conservatories can swing from hot to cold through the year, a solid warm roof tends to deliver the biggest improvement in how the room is actually used.

How to choose the right roof for your home

Ask yourself these three questions:

Do you want the room to feel like a true extension?

If yes, tiles are usually the best route.

Do you want maximum daylight and an open roof feel?

If yes, glass may suit you better.

Is budget the main driver, and you use the room only occasionally?

If yes, polycarbonate might be enough.

If you are also thinking about wider home upgrades, like improving insulation throughout the property, it can make sense to consider improvements such as new windows or new doors at the same time, but only if those areas are also letting the room down.