Just a few years ago, conservatory glass roofs were virtually unheard of but have become increasingly popular over the past two or three years.
It is estimated that at least one in three conservatory roofs are now manufactured to accept glass rather than polycarbonate.
Conservatory roofs that are manufactured to accept glass units are normally ‘beefed up’ with heavy duty rafter bars, steel reinforcing and bolster support bars, depending on the size and shape of the roof and the roof system being fabricated. Typically, tie bars are also supplied to provide additional support.
Conservatory glass roof technology has come a long way recently with thermally efficient, solar control and self cleaning options.
One of the most popular examples is Pilkington Activ Blue Solar Control, Self-Cleaning glass which has a subtle blue tint for solar control purposes and a self-clean coating which reacts with day light to break down dirt which is then washed away with rain or by hosing down. Another version of this is Activ Neutral which has a slight tint but without the blue colour.
Glass roofs make conservatories substantially more expensive, not just because of the increased cost of the glass itself, but also with the addition of the extra steel reinforcements, bolster bars and tie bars that are often required to safely support the weight of the glass units.
Posted by David Bingham 
In recent years, 
