What is the difference between a WARMroof and a traditional conservatory?

Conservatories are a fantastic way to extend your living space and bring natural light into your home. However, the type of roof you choose—whether a traditional glass/polycarbonate roof or a WARMroof can significantly affect comfort, energy efficiency, and usability throughout the year. Let’s explore the key differences.

Traditional Conservatory Roofs

Traditional conservatory roofs, often made of glass or polycarbonate, are known for their bright and airy appeal. However, they come with notable limitations:

  1. Temperature Control: Glass and polycarbonate roofs offer minimal insulation, making conservatories too hot in summer and too cold in winter. These extreme temperature fluctuations can make the space uncomfortable for year-round use​.
  2. Noise Levels: Rain and hail hitting polycarbonate roofs can create significant noise. This may detract from the room’s usability during bad weather. However, this is sometimes a plus for those who find comfort in the sound!
  3. Energy Efficiency: Poor insulation leads to higher energy bills, as homeowners often use additional heating in winter or cooling in summer​.
  4. Maintenance: Traditional roofs often require regular cleaning to prevent debris buildup. Over time, they may degrade faster than modern alternatives.

Warm Roof Technology

WARMroof conservatories are a modern alternative, designed to overcome the shortcomings of traditional roofs. These roofs are built with multiple layers of insulation and durable materials such as lightweight tiles or slate, offering several advantages:

  1. Year-Round Comfort: Warm roofs provide superior thermal efficiency, ensuring the space remains cosy in winter and cool in summer. This makes the conservatory usable as a permanent living area​.
  2. Energy Efficiency: The enhanced insulation reduces heat loss, leading to lower energy bills and a more sustainable home environment​.
  3. Durability and Low Maintenance: Warm roofs are built with durable materials and require minimal upkeep compared to glass or polycarbonate options​.
  4. Improved Aesthetics: With options like tiled finishes, WARMroofs blend seamlessly with the rest of the house, giving your conservatory the appearance of a permanent extension​.
  5. Soundproofing: WARMroofs offer better noise reduction, providing a quieter, more peaceful environment even during heavy rain.

Conclusion

At Narborough Windows and Conservatories, we offer a range of options, from stunning traditional conservatory designs like Victorian, Edwardian, and bespoke styles to innovative WARMroof systems. Our WARMroofs not only enhance comfort and energy efficiency but also increase the overall value of your property. Contact us today to find the perfect solution for your home.

Essential maintenance tips for windows, doors, and roofs in winter

As temperatures drop, preparing your home for winter weather is crucial to maintain comfort, save on energy bills, and avoid costly repairs. Here are some practical tips for keeping your windows, doors, and roofs in top shape this winter.

Seal drafts to maximise warmth

Drafts around windows and doors are a leading cause of heat loss during winter. Start by inspecting for gaps or cracks:

  • Windows: For older windows, consider installing draft stoppers or thermal curtains for extra insulation​.
  • Doors: Check the threshold and edges for air leaks. Adding a new door sweep can improve the seal and block cold air​. As an additional measure draft stoppers work well in stopping cold air coming in and heat going out.

Upgrade to energy-efficient installations

If your windows and doors are outdated, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. Modern double or triple-glazed windows and composite doors are designed to prevent heat loss and enhance insulation:

  • Windows: Look for low-E-value glass and multi-chamber frames for superior thermal performance​.
  • Doors: Composite doors resist drafts and offer excellent durability against harsh weather​ conditions.

Clean and inspect your gutters

Blocked gutters can lead to ice dams, which damage roofs and lead to leaks. Regularly cleaning gutters ensures proper water drainage:

  • Remove leaves and debris.
  • Inspect downspouts for blockages.
  • Ensure gutters are securely attached to prevent collapse under the weight of snow and ice​.

Protect your roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against winter weather. Here’s how to ensure it’s ready:

  • Check for Damage: Inspect for missing or cracked areas and repair them promptly.
  • Insulate: Add attic insulation to prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of ice dams.
  • Warm Roof Solutions: For conservatories, upgrading to a warm roof can dramatically improve thermal efficiency and ensure year-round comfort​

Bonus Tips for Conservatories

Winter often highlights the shortcomings of poorly insulated conservatories. Upgrade to energy-efficient glazed panels or consider a fully insulated WARMroof. These options can reduce heating costs while making the space usable throughout the year​.

Staying ahead with preventative maintenance

Regular inspections and proactive upgrades can save you money and stress in the long term. If you’re considering home improvements, Narborough Windows and Conservatoires are here to offer expert advice and home improvements tailored to improve your home and benefit your home efficiency. 

Get in contact with our expert team to find out how we can help improve your home. From new windows and doors to thermal WARMroof conservatories, Narborough Windows and Conservatoires have you covered.