Affordable Roof Materials for Your Conservatory

When you add a conservatory, the roof is the biggest expense. Luckily there are several cheap options that still look good and stand up to the UK weather. Below you’ll find the most popular low‑cost materials, what you get for the money, and how to pick the right one for your home.

Top Budget‑Friendly Roofing Options

Polycarbonate panels are lightweight, easy to install, and usually cost less than glass. They come in clear, white or tinted versions, so you can control how much heat gets in. A standard 10mm twin‑wall panel runs about £15‑£20 per square metre, making it a solid choice for DIYers.

GRP (glass‑reinforced plastic) roofing looks like traditional tiled roofs but is far cheaper. Sheets are pre‑formed, so you just bolt them on and seal the joints. Prices sit around £25‑£30 per square metre, and the material resists rot and UV damage.

Aluminium roofing offers a sleek, modern look without the price tag of steel. It’s lightweight, corrodes slowly, and can be painted to match your house. Expect to pay £30‑£35 per square metre for a basic colour‑coat.

Asphalt shingles are familiar from many homes and are easy to fit over a timber frame. They’re not the flashiest, but they keep water out and cost roughly £20‑£25 per square metre when bought in bulk.

EPDM rubber membrane is another option for flat or low‑slope roofs. It’s a black sheet that you roll out and glue down. It’s cheap—about £10‑£12 per square metre—and handles ponding water well, which is handy for summer rain.

Choosing the Right Material for Longevity and Style

First, think about exposure. If your conservatory faces north or gets a lot of rain, you’ll want a material that resists water ingress. Polycarbonate and EPDM handle moisture well, while GRP needs good sealants around the edges.

Second, consider insulation. Twin‑wall polycarbonate has a decent R‑value, but you can boost it with a reflective film. Aluminium and GRP are poor insulators on their own, so add a layer of insulated boards underneath if you plan to use the space year‑round.

Third, check planning permission requirements. In most UK areas, a conservatory roof under 30m² is covered by permitted development, but you still need to meet fire safety and structural standards. Cheap doesn’t mean you can skip a professional check.

Finally, weigh the look you want. Clear polycarbonate keeps the garden view unobstructed, while white GRP or painted aluminium can blend with your house’s exterior. If you’re after a traditional feel, go for colour‑matched aluminium or simple asphalt shingles.

Bottom line: you don’t need to break the bank to get a roof that lasts. Pick a material that matches your climate, insulation needs, and aesthetic, then compare the per‑square‑metre cost plus any extra labour. With the right choice, your conservatory will stay bright, dry, and affordable for years to come.