When Did You Last Give Your Conservatory a Health Check?
If you haven’t checked on your conservatory lately—or perhaps aren’t even sure what a conservatory check involves—now’s the time! The good news is that it’s quick, easy, and could save you money in the long run.
What Does a Conservatory Health Check Involve?
There are two key areas to check when assessing your conservatory’s condition:
- A physical inspection – to spot visible wear and tear.
- A performance audit – to assess thermal efficiency and energy loss.
Physical Check
It’s essential to inspect your conservatory at least twice a year, ideally in autumn and spring. This is especially important if you have a polycarbonate or older glass conservatory roof, as damage can develop gradually and may go unnoticed.
Minor issues such as small cracks, deteriorating seals, loose joints, or a blocked drainage system can lead to more serious problems if left unchecked. A compromised structure may allow water ingress, cause heat loss, or even lead to roof panels shifting.
Signs of ageing to look out for:
✔ Discolouration of polycarbonate – UV exposure can cause panels to yellow or become brittle.
✔ Cracks or wear in glazing or seals – leading to potential leaks.
✔ Leaks or damp patches – indicating failing seals or poor insulation.
✔ Bowing or warping – particularly in older conservatories, which may be a sign of structural weakness.
Performance Audit: How Efficient Is Your Conservatory?
Even if your conservatory looks fine, it might be costing you more than you think in heating bills. Here’s how to check its thermal efficiency:
1. The Frost Test
On a cold morning, check for frost or ice on your conservatory roof. If it melts faster than neighbouring houses or sheds, heat is escaping through the roof, meaning poor insulation.
2. The Draught Test
Feeling chilly even when the conservatory door is closed? Cold air seeping into the main house is a clear sign of poor thermal efficiency.
3. The Heating Bill Test
If your heating bills seem higher than expected, your conservatory may be the culprit. Try closing it off from the rest of the house for a week and monitor the difference in temperature and energy usage.
Checklist summary – look for:
✔ Unusually high energy bills
✔ Cold draughts seeping into the house
✔ Frost or ice disappearing quickly from the roof
The Solution?
An ageing, thermally inefficient conservatory doesn’t mean you need a complete rebuild—there are cost-effective solutions!
✔ Upgrade to an Insulated Ceiling – A high-performance insulated ceiling can transform your conservatory, preventing heat loss and making it comfortable year-round. Unlike thermal blinds or major renovations, this option is fast to install, cost-effective, and maintenance-free.
✔ Consider a Tiled or Insulated Roof Replacement – If your conservatory is outdated, replacing the roof with a thermally efficient solid roof system (such as the LEKA Warm Roof or Warmer Roof) can eliminate extreme temperatures, reduce noise, and improve the overall aesthetics.
Key Benefits:
✅ Lower heating costs year after year
✅ Consistent indoor temperatures – cool in summer, warm in winter
✅ Improved home insulation and value
If your conservatory isn’t performing as well as it should, now is the time to take action. A small investment in insulation could make a world of difference to your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.