If you’re considering upgrading your conservatory roof to something more solid and usable all year round, you may have been tempted by the “clad-over” option. Unfortunately, what looks like a cost-effective quick fix often comes with considerable hidden risks. At KLG Rutland, we always recommend a proper tiled or hybrid roof replacement for safety, performance and long-term peace of mind.

The Dangers of Clad-Over Roofs

Here are the major risks of opting for a clad-over roof system:

  1. Weakened Structural Integrity
    Many clad-over installations simply fix battens, lightweight tiles and plasterboard over the existing roof structure (glass or polycarbonate) without removing the original framework. The load-bearing elements were not originally designed for all of that extra weight. This massively increases the risk of sagging, cracking plaster, or even partial collapse under snow or wind. Also, drilling into existing glazing bars compromises their function in drainage, support and ventilation.
  1. Poor Thermal Efficiency, Condensation & Damp Problems
    Clad-overs often leave the original aluminium bars or framework in place with no proper thermal barrier or ventilation. That leads to trapped moisture, condensation, damp, mould, cracked plaster and reduced insulation performance. You may pay for something that looks insulated, but doesn’t perform as a true solid roof would.
  2. Non-Compliance with Building Regulations and Fire Safety Concerns
    Because clad-over systems often bypass structural calculation, full integration testing and proper removal of the original roof, they may fail to meet UK building regulations (structural, insulation, ventilation) or fire-safety standards. For example, if you don’t have the necessary Building Control certificate, when it comes to selling the house or insuring the property you may run into issues.
  3. Reduced Light, Hidden Defects & Hidden Costs
    Clad-overs may obscure the original structure and make it harder to inspect for defects. They may also reduce the amount of light entering the space because the original roofing was designed to be glazed or lighter. Furthermore, you may find you have to remove it and redo the whole roof later, effectively paying twice.
  4. Lowered Property Value & Long-Term Resale Risks
    A poorly-installed or non-compliant clad-over roof may deter potential buyers, affect your resale value, or even mean you’re forced to correct or remove the roof before sale. What seemed like a quick fix can become an expensive liability.

In short: while clad-overs might sound appealing because they cost less and promise a “solid roof” look quickly, the long-term risks often outweigh the short-term savings.

The Real Benefits of a SupaLite Tiled or Hybrid Roof from KLG Rutland

By partnering with SupaLite, we install solid or hybrid conservatory roofs that avoid all the pitfalls of clad-overs and deliver lasting performance. Here’s how we do it better:

  • High Thermal Efficiency – Our solid and hybrid roof systems achieve outstanding U-values (0.15 in England) thanks to genuine thermal barriers and insulation built into the roof structure. That means your conservatory stays warm in winter, cool in summer and you’ll see lower energy bills.
  • Proper Roof Structure & Weight Management – Rather than layering over the existing glazing or polycarbonate roof, the system is engineered to suit the load, removing or reinforcing as required. Our roofs are built with lightweight aluminium structure, as part of a design engineered to last a lifetime. As we design for the real structural requirements (snow/wind loads, building control), you’re not compromising safety.
  • Reduced Condensation & Better Ventilation – SupaLite roofs have in-built thermal breaks and ventilation pathways that reduce the risk of condensation, damp, mould or cracking plaster.
  • Warranties & Compliance – We work with certified systems and installers, giving you a proper warranty (minimum 10-year insurance-backed) and full compliance with building regulations. That means your investment is protected, and you can rest assured your conservatory upgrade adds value rather than uncertain risk.
  • Added Value to Your Home – Because you’re installing a genuine solid/hybrid roof tailored to your home (rather than a cheap quick fix), it adds real usable space, comfort and resale value. At the very least, you’re avoiding the danger of needing to undo a clad-over in the future.

Click here to read more about the dangers of clad overs from the experts at SupaLite.