Thinking of replacing your current conservatory roof with a tiled option?
For many homeowners, the conservatory is a ‘part-time’ room, with a comfortable temperature in spring, but it becomes a greenhouse in summer or an icebox in winter.
In our guide to why traditional roofs fall short, we highlight how these outdated polycarbonate or glass roofs fail to regulate temperature, leaving you with a room that is unusable for half of the year.
Many homes across Essex, from Southend to Chelmsford, are sitting on “dead space” that could be a functional, beautiful living area.
Why Choose a Tiled Roof?
Beyond just looking better, a tiled replacement offers:
- Year-Round Comfort: Maintain a consistent temperature regardless of the weather outside.
- Energy Efficiency: Drastically reduce heat loss, which is better for your wallet and the planet.
- Acoustic Peace: Finally hear yourself think during a rainstorm, tiled roofs are significantly quieter than glass or plastic.
- Added Property Value: A solid roof makes the space feel like a “real” room, often increasing your home’s overall value.
At Greenoak Concept & Design, we specialise in two of the UK’s leading systems: the SupaLite Tiled Conservatory Roof and the Warmer Roof.
Why the Tiled System Matters
It’s easy to focus on the external tiles, but the real magic happens in the framework underneath.
A common mistake homeowners make is choosing a “clad-over” or an uncertified DIY system. We’ve previously covered the major red flags to look for in a tiled roof, the most important being structural integrity and thermal performance.
Both SupaLite and Warmer Roof are fully certified systems that meet building regulations, but they achieve their results through different engineering.
Option 1: The SupaLite System
The SupaLite roof is the UK’s most popular tiled system. It is a lightweight aluminium-framed system engineered specifically for the replacement market. As it is so light, it is often the perfect choice for conservatories, where we want to avoid adding excess weight to the existing window frames.
SupaLite is the ultimate all-rounder. Its lightweight design makes it incredibly versatile, allowing for a perfect fit on everything from compact lean-tos to expansive, complex P-shape designs.
Plus, because the system is engineered for efficiency, we can usually get the structure weather-tight within the first 48 hours.
After
Before
Option 2: The Warmer Roof
While SupaLite uses aluminium, the warmer roof is constructed using a bespoke timber-pod system. This is the ‘premium’ choice for those wanting a true extension-like feel.
The Warmer Roof uses a timber-based structure to stop heat loss in its tracks. Unlike metal frames that can sometimes allow “cold bridging,” timber acts as a natural barrier.
With a thicker 125mm insulation layer between the rafters, it’s arguably the best system for keeping heat exactly where you want it. It provides that solid, high-end extension feel, making it perfect for a permanent home office or a peaceful retreat.
Comparison Table
| Feature | SupaLite System | The Warmer Roof |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Type | Lightweight Aluminium | Insulated Timber Pods |
| Insulation Depth | 100mm + 62.5mm Board | 125mm + 62.5mm Board |
| Best Feature | Speed & Adaptability | Maximum Insulation & Soundproofing |
| Thermal Performance | Excellent (0.15W/m2K) | Superior Retention (0.15W/m2K) |
| Internal Look | Modern Plastered Vault | Solid Extension Feel |
| Building Regs | Fully Compliant | Fully Compliant |
| Ideal for | Lightweight replacements & complex shapes | Premium office or living room conversions |
Need Help Choosing Which System for Your Roof?
There is no “wrong” choice between these two, only the best fit for your property and your budget.
- Choose SupaLite… if you want a proven, lightweight, and versatile system that upgrades your conservatory with minimal fuss and has a life expectancy of up to 50 years.
- Choose the Warmer Roof… if you want the absolute peak of thermal and acoustic performance for a “permanent extension” atmosphere.
Still unsure? Contact the team today or pop into our Southend showroom, and we’ll be more than happy to walk you through the options and show you physical examples in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to replace a conservatory roof with a warm roof?
Will I need planning permission to change my conservatory roof?
In most cases, changing from a glass or polycarbonate roof to a warm roof falls under permitted development rights. We manage the entire Building Regulations process on your behalf and provide you with the official certification once the project is signed off.
Can a warm roof be installed on any conservatory?
Most conservatories can be fitted with a warm roof, but a structural assessment is needed to ensure your existing framework can support the new roof. During our assessment, we will help find the right roofing material for your needs.
Will a tiled roof make my house dark?
This is a common concern, but the reality is often the opposite. While you lose the direct overhead glass, the internal plastered ceiling reflects light back into the house more effectively than a dirty glass or polycarbonate roof.
If you’re still worried about losing that ‘open’ feel, we can easily build in SupaLite SkyVista panels or Warmer Roof Sky Glass to keep the space feeling bright.
