How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Conservatory Roof in South England in 2026?

Read time: 5-6 minutes

When homeowners in South England consider replacing a conservatory roof, the decision usually comes down to two simple questions.

First: Will this finally turn the space into a proper, usable room?
Second: And am I spending money in the right place, rather than just covering up a deeper problem?

A roof-only upgrade can be a smart and cost-effective solution. But it only works when the structure beneath it is sound and the layout already makes sense. In other cases, spending more upfront to fix the structure properly can deliver far better long-term value.

Most projects still fall within a realistic price range. What changes the final figure is not the word “roof”, but the size, condition and specification of the existing space. Below, we explain typical 2026 costs, what drives them, and what outcome you should expect for the money spent.

The Short Answer (2026 Prices, inc VAT)

• Small conservatory roofs (around 3m x 3m): £10,000 to £12,000
• Medium conservatories (around 4m x 3m or 4m x 4m): £12,000 to £15,000
• Larger or more complex roof shapes: from £15,000 upwards

Below we explain what actually moves a project toward the lower or upper end of these ranges.

These ranges are based on projects we deliver in the South of England in 2026 and include VAT.

Roof Types Compared

• Glass roof replacement
  • This is the most affordable upgrade and retains high levels of light.
  • Insulation performance remains limited compared to other systems.
• Flat roof with lantern
  • This delivers full year-round usability while still allowing large amounts of natural light. 
  • Larger lanterns increase cost, and bungalow installations can sometimes cost more than tiled alternatives.
• Insulated tiled roof
  • This offers the best thermal performance and makes the space feel like a true extension. 
  • Light levels reduce unless glass panels or roof windows are added.

For most older conservatories where comfort is the main issue, we generally recommend an insulated tiled roof or flat roof with a lantern. These options provide a true year-round room, not a slight improved conservatory.

What Actually Changes the Cost

• Size and shape of the roof
  • Larger roofs require more materials and labour. 
  • Complex shapes such as L-shaped or P-shaped conservatories also increase cost due to additional structural work.
• Roof type
  • Glass roofs are typically the lowest cost option and retain good levels of light, especially when upgraded from polycarbonate using high-performance solar glass.
  • Orangery-style flat roofs and insulated tiled roofs sit at a similar price point and both offer genuine year-round usability.
  • Lower specification tiled roofs can appear cheaper but often deliver poorer insulation. 
  • We recommend a U-value of around 0.12 to ensure the space performs properly in winter and summer.
• Condition of existing frames and base
  • If frames and the base are in good condition, a roof-only replacement can be a sensible option.
  • Blown glass units can be replaced to improve appearance adding usually £100-300 per unit, however tired frames with ageing seals often continue to fail over time.
  • Replacing only the roof can become a short-term fix, with higher costs later when the frames need replacing as well.
• Access and height
  • Tight access or poor working space increases installation time, which can add several days to the build.
  • Taller properties may require scaffolding, typically adding £500 to £700 or more depending on scope.
• Internal finishes
  • Plastering the internal ceiling is usually required and typically adds £1,000 to £1,500.
  • Disconnecting and reconnecting existing lighting usually adds £100 to £200.
  • New lighting costs vary. A standard light fitting costs £300. Whilst downlights cost £110 per downlight and are spaced evenly across the ceiling.

A Real 4.37 x 3.1m Tiled Roof Only Cost Breakdown

Project: Westbury-on-Trym

Brief

• Location: South of England
• Property type: 70’s Semi-Detached
• Goal: Make the conservatory usable all year without a full rebuild
• Main concern: Keep costs proportionate to the upgrade
  
• Why this solution was proposed?: The frames and base were in good condition, so a roof-only conversion was suitable and remained within budget. 

Specification:

• Style: Lean To
• Roof Type: Tiled Roof
• Build: Roof Only

Indicative cost breakdown

• Base build and walls: £9,689
• New insulated tiled roof system: £6,671
• Remove existing roof and install new system: £3,779
• Internal finishes (plastering and lighting): £1,100
• Building Control and approvals: £450
  

Total (including VAT): £12,000

Outcome
The space is now comfortable all year and used daily as a functional part of the home. Installation was completed with minimal disruption, and the existing structure was retained where it made sense.

Real-world example:

 View the Full Case Study here

When Replacing Just the Roof Is the Wrong Call

Roof-only replacement is usually not the right solution if there are:

• Signs of base movement
• Failing or rotten frames
• Layout that no longer works.

If your goals include:

• Increasing size
• Changing shape
• Want a higher capital uplift on your property.

…investing in a new conservatory, orangery or extension is often the better long-term decision.

How to Get a Realistic Roof Replacement Quote

Here are the simple steps:

1. Start by measuring the footprint and taking clear photos inside and out. 
2. Note any cracks, leaks, or sticking doors and windows. 
3. Decide whether you want to keep the existing frames exactly as they are. 
4. Be clear whether you want just the roof replaced or internal finishes included as well.
5. Know what your budget is

Going through this exercise before you ask for quotes helps you compare like‑for‑like, rather than just chasing the lowest number on paper.

Our process is simple. We survey the structure, explain the options, and provide a fixed price for the agreed scope so you know exactly what you are getting before work starts.

Next Steps

If you are in South England and considering a conservatory roof replacement in 2026, we can:

• assess your existing structure 
• Tell you honestly whether a roof-only upgrade or a full rebuild makes more sense before you spend anything.