Thinking of converting your old Conservatory roof to a Guardian Warm roof? Read here first

Thinking of converting your old roof for a Warm Roof, read on:

What is a Guardian Warm Roof? 

Guardian warm roof is an energy efficient design, that retains heat. The lower the U-value, the better the thermal retention of heat. Guardian warm roofs have a U-value of 0.18 wk/m and are LABC approved

Who are LABC?

LABC (Local Authority Building Control) is a not for profit membership organisation that represents all local authority building control teams in England & Wales.

Do building regulations apply when converting your roof?

Yes.

Why?

Your existing Conservatory is an exempt building control structure. The translucent material (Polycarbonate or glass) in the roof is just one requirement of set criteria that defines the structure as exempt from building regulations. Therefore, if you replace this with a solid roof with little or no translucent material, you need to adhere to the relevant building regulations.

So what’s required to satisfy building regulations?  

The roof structure has to meet Part A of building regulations (structure). If you wish to open up your Conservatory by removing the existing dividing doors, thus creating open plan access, the roof design has to meet the thermal requirements of Part L  ( heat & energy conservation ).This is subject to a SAP assessment of your home. Furthermore, any electrical works need to adhere to Part P  ( electrical installations in dwellings ). Please note, there are further requirements to adhere to, set out by the LABC with their latest guidance (2016), though these are the primary aspects.

What is a SAP assessment?

This is an energy heat loss calculation, to calculate the newly proposed overall U-value of your home, required only when wishing to achieve open plan access to your proposed new Garden room, with a new warm roof (& where new windows and doors required too). Whilst there’s no certainty your home will meet the overall thermal requirements, the vast majority of homes will.

Can I convert my old roof to a new Guardian warm roof?

Subject to the super structure being fit for purpose, yes.

What is the super structure?

The foundations, walls (when present) & frames.

How will I know if the super structure is fit for purpose?

In line with LABC guidance, the existing foundations require a minimum depth of 150mm concrete. You contractor will check to ensure there are no visible signs of heave or subsidence. That the frames are sound and have been reinforced appropriately. Please note, there may be further requirements to adhere to the LABC guidance (2016), though these are the primary aspects.

Would I get a certificate?

Yes on completion from Building Control, validating the works are lawful. This is a legal requirement.

Why choose Alan Maris Windows & Guardian Warm Roof?

1. As authorised and approved installers of the award winning LABC approved product, Alan Maris Windows & Guardian Warm Roof is a winning combination.
2. As registered members of the LABC/Guardian Warm Roof,  national building control partnership, building control costs have been reduced to that of costs when dealing directly with your local authority building control.
3. Free, no obligation written quotations are standard practice. A schedule of events explains the process.
4. An array of roof designs and product finishes available to meet your requirements.
5. A direct & dedicated service is on hand from proud  Derbyshire County Council Trusted Traders & FENSA certified installers.
6. Building Control certification &  10year insurance backed guarantee.
7. Our website  www.alanmariswindows.co.uk , showroom  (61 West Bars, Chesterfield, S40 1BA) and select clients homes, will enable you to inform yourself and view the product at first hand.
8. Because we have been Getting It Right Since 1999 and this is our customer feedback (please click the link to view): http://www.homepro.com/profile?business=ALANMARISWINDOWSLTD

Thank you for reading,

Alan.