Are conservatories too hot for our Furry Friends?
You’ve likely seen the headlines: “Don’t leave your dog in a hot car.”
But what about conservatories?
It’s a topic we don’t talk about enough: when a conservatory gets too hot for dogs, it becomes just as dangerous as a parked vehicle.
Most of us know the feeling—stepping into a glass or polycarbonate conservatory on a warm day only to be hit by a wave of stifling heat. For humans, it’s uncomfortable. For pets, it can be dangerous.
The Hidden Danger in Conservatories
Polycarbonate roofs offer little protection from solar gain. On sunny days, the temperature inside can soar well above that outside—quickly creating conditions similar to a locked car in full sun.
According to the RSPCA, heatstroke in dogs can occur when temperatures rise above 24°C, particularly in enclosed or glassy spaces.
While most official warnings focus on vehicles, the same logic applies to overheated conservatories. As Dogs Trust and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home note, dogs don’t sweat like we do. They cool down by panting—and in hot, unventilated spaces, this simply isn’t enough.
Signs Your Dog May Be Overheating:
- Heavy panting or laboured breathing
- Excessive drooling
- Lethargy or restlessness
- Vomiting or even collapse
In extreme cases, heatstroke can be fatal. That’s why it’s so important to keep your pets out of rooms that trap heat—especially if you’re out of the house.
What If a New Roof Isn’t on the Cards?
We completely understand that a full roof upgrade may not be possible for everyone right now.
In the meantime, here are a few practical steps to help reduce heat and make your conservatory safer for pets:
- Keep blinds or curtains drawn during the hottest part of the day
- Open windows and doors early in the morning or late evening to improve airflow
- Use reflective film or temporary thermal blinds to reduce solar gain
- Position a fan for added ventilation (always with supervision)
- And most importantly — never leave pets unattended in a warm conservatory
Every small change helps protect your furry friends. And when the time feels right to explore a longer-term solution, we’ll be happy to advise — no pressure.
A Safe Conservatory Temperature Starts With the Roof
If your conservatory becomes unusable in the summer, or you’re concerned about pet safety, it may be time to upgrade your glass or polycarbonate roof.
Modern roofing solutions are designed not just for style, but for temperature control and year-round comfort. These include:
- The LEKA Warm Roof – lightweight, highly insulated, and ideal for creating a cooler environment for pets and people alike.
- A fibreglass conservatory roof – completely solid, with no seams or joints, offering outstanding thermal performance.
- Insulated roof panels – suitable for glass roofs only, these panels replace the original glazing with a solid insulated unit. We then add a thermal layer above and finish the interior with a clean, modern ceiling—reducing glare, lowering heat, and enhancing comfort.
Each system helps stabilise internal temperatures and transforms your conservatory into a space that’s safer for pets, more practical for everyday living, and beautifully integrated into your home.
Cooler Rooms, Calmer Pets
It’s not just about temperature. A newly insulated roof creates a calm, restful ambience that your dog—or cat—will love. Gone are the hot spots, sun glare, and stuffy air.
🐶 And this happy chap?
He’s a fan. Since we swapped out the old roof, the conservatory is his go-to nap zone. Cooler in summer, warmer in winter—and no longer off limits.
Thinking of Making a Change?
Whether you’re concerned about heat, want a more beautiful finish, or just need a conservatory you can finally use again, 2Hot2Cold are here to help.
We’ll visit, measure, and guide you through the best options—always tailored to your home, your goals, and yes, even your pets.
Quote “Summer10” for 10% off selected roof upgrades.