Why is your conservatory roof leaking?

Conservatory refurbished with a Metrotile Lightweight Roof System Shingle Charcoal

One of the main complaints from homeowners about conservatories is that they can leak. Leaks are especially frustrating as it can be difficult to find the source of the problem. It can be time-consuming and expensive to make the repairs, which may be short-term.

Why’s it a problem?

As well as the inconvenience and hassle factor of placing buckets around your conservatory, the problem could be more serious. Water can create damp patches and cause long-term damage to walls and your electrics. Also, it’s not a job for the homeowner especially when there’s a glass roof, as repairing it could be highly dangerous. Untreated, a leak is likely to impact on the value of your home, and will put off potential buyers.

Common reasons for a leaking roof:

  1. Old age, for example where seals have perished, screws have worked loose, or screw tops have fallen off.
  2. Faulty installation by an inexperienced general builder or DIY enthusiast.
  3. Poor workmanship, where panels are cut short or don’t meet the gutter.
  4. The sun causing UV damage, making polycarbonate roofs brittle, or extreme weather incidences, such as giant hailstones.

A major problem is that the leak can appear some distance from the source. This will have a knock-on effect on the time and money you’ll have to spend on any repairs. If your conservatory has a glass roof, you may have to budget extra for scaffolding. And if you’ve experienced one leak, you may be unfortunate and it could be the first of many, especially if the glass or polycarbonate roof is old.

Upgrading to a tiled roof as a solution to leaks

A long-term option is to remove the glass or polycarbonate roofing and replace it with a lightweight tiled alternative. There are a number of benefits, not least putting a stop to leaks. These include creating a space in your home that you can use throughout the year, increasing the value of your house, and improving the building’s structure.

For details on a replacement conservatory roof, please complete our online contact form or call us between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday on 01249 658 514.