Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT ARE SOLAR INSERTS?

Solar Inserts are reflective strips, made from polyethylene.

Where do they go?

They go inside the hollow channels of the polycarbonate panels, in the roof of your conservatory.

What do they do?

They reflect away approximately 80% of the heat, glare and ultraviolet from the surface of your roof.

I am thinking about getting roof blinds!

Roof blinds can be highly decorative and solar reflective blinds are also available.

So why should I choose your system?

1) Unlike blinds, our Solar Inserts reflect the majority of heat and glare away from the top of your conservatory roof, before this has a chance to enter.

2) Our Solar Inserts are maintenance free.

3) Broken strings, trapped dirt and flies, UV damage, can all happen with roof blinds but not with our Solar Inserts.

4) You can even fit them yourself! D.I.Y. is easy in most cases: if you choose this route, we even supply you with the fitting kit and a picture “step-by-step” guide . . . free of charge !

A helpline is always available: just call 01255 688847 should you wish for further assistance or information.

5) In a lot of cases, our Inserts are cheaper than blinds, especially on the larger and more complicated conservatory designs such as “P” shapes, etc.

Where can I buy them?

Just click the following link to buy solar inserts on this web site or any of the appropriate links found on each page of our site.

I have glass in my conservatory roof!

No problem. Our selection of reflective window films can cool you down. Just click on the following link which will take you to our self survey page.

How do I know it works?

Solar inserts work by preventing the majority of the suns solar energy from entering the conservatory through the roof. This is unlike virtually all other types of climate control which attempt to dissipate hot air from the conservatory. We will be pleased to introduce you to existing customers who will confirm that solar inserts have significantly improved comfort and usability of their conservatory.

How long will solar inserts last?

Solar inserts are made from highly durable polyester laminate. The finely divided metals contained within the laminate are stainless steel. Sealed within the polycarbonate roof, the inserts are inert and not subject to degradation from exposure to the elements. They are virtually indestructible. Moreover, the glass and glazing federation stated in March 2000 that “Solar inserts greatly reduce the transmission of heat and glare and have no detrimental effect upon a polycarbonate roof”.

Will solar inserts reduce glare?

Glare is a major problem, particularly in white PVCU conservatories. Glare is reduced by between 80% and 90 %. Moreover, the embossed finish softens the reflective effect externally.

Will the conservatory be warmer in the winter?

Yes. Over 80% of generated heat escapes through the roof. A typical U-Value for polycarbonate is between 2.3 and 3, solar inserts reduce the U Value dramatically. As heat rises, the solar inserts reflect and re-radiate heat back into the conservatory. A ceiling fan can assist in circulating the heat in winter.

Will plants still grow in the conservatory?

Generally, the “Greenhouse effect” in conservatories inhibits plant growth. Solar inserts prevent this occurring. Sufficient natural light to enable plants to flourish comes in through the windows.

Do solar inserts make the conservatory darker?

Solar inserts allow significantly more light into the conservatory than any other type of conservatory blind or tinted polycarbonate. The bright airy feel of the conservatory remains.

How much will the temperature drop?

It depends on the aspect and type of conservatory. We have customers experiencing up to 40°F reduction in peak daytime summer temperatures. What we can say is that: the internal temperature is unlikely to rise much above the external temperature.

Are roof vents required?

Generally, roof vents are not needed with solar inserts. Cross ventilation is far more effective. A conservatory fan will aid air circulation and is particularly beneficial in winter.