Glasshouse Re-Roofing & Re-Purposing

Glasshouse Re-Roofing / Re-Purposing

Upgrading your glasshouse roof with polycarbonate, composite panels or sandwich systems offers a wide range of long-term benefits that can dramatically improve performance, safety and usability. These modern roofing solutions provide excellent impact resistance and are far more resilient to harsh weather conditions than traditional glass. Composite and sandwich panels, in particular, deliver superior thermal insulation, helping to maintain stable internal temperatures, reduce heat loss and lower ongoing energy costs.

At Commercial Glasshouse Contracts Ltd, we specialise in professional glasshouse re-roofing solutions using high-performance polycarbonate and composite panel systems, alongside Dutch-manufactured sandwich panel systems supplied through our trusted partners in the Netherlands. Whether you are experiencing frequent glazing repairs, inefficient climate control or ageing roof materials, a modern roof upgrade can provide a durable, cost-effective solution that supports healthier crops, safer working conditions and improved energy efficiency.

Re-Purposing Existing Glasshouses

Re-roofing can also open the door to re-purposing your existing structure. We have successfully worked on projects where glasshouses have been transformed into cafés, retail spaces and other public-access buildings. By improving insulation, light control and weather resistance, an existing glasshouse can be adapted to suit an entirely new function while retaining its structural value.

Our Re-Roofing Service Includes:

Roof Condition Assessment – A full inspection of existing roofing materials to identify damage, corrosion, heat-loss points and structural concerns.
Material Recommendation & Planning – Expert advice on the most suitable solution, whether polycarbonate, composite panels or high-performance sandwich systems, based on your crop type, usage and environmental requirements.
Removal of Existing Roofing – Safe and efficient removal of old glass, polycarbonate or worn roofing systems.
Installation of New Panels – Precision fitting of impact-resistant panels designed to improve thermal performance and weather protection.
Sealant & Fixing System Upgrades – Replacement of all gaskets, sealants and fixings to meet modern safety and performance standards.
Optional Shading & Light Diffusion Solutions – Integration of UV protection, light diffusion or shading systems to optimise growing conditions.

The Benefits of Polycarbonate, Composite & Sandwich Panel Roof Upgrades

Enhanced Weather Resistance – Designed to withstand wind, hail and temperature extremes.
Superior Impact Protection – Reduced risk of breakage from storms or debris, improving safety for staff and crops.
Excellent Thermal Efficiency – Composite and sandwich panels provide outstanding insulation, helping to reduce heating demand and energy costs.
Low Maintenance & Long Lifespan – Less prone to corrosion, algae build-up and cracking compared to traditional glazing.
Improved Light Control – Options for diffused light and UV filtration to support consistent, year-round growth.

Designed, Manufactured & Engineered In-House

What truly sets us apart is our ability to design and manufacture specialist roofing and conversion systems in-house, while also working with leading European manufacturers. This allows us to offer tailored solutions for complex and non-standard glasshouse designs, including:

Composite panel ridge systems
Composite panel gutter conversion systems
10mm polycarbonate bar cap systems
16mm polycarbonate bar cap systems
Custom gutter conversion profiles for:
- Round Boal aluminium gutters
- Other aluminium Venlo gutters / steel Venlo gutters
- Widespan gutter systems

Combined with access to Dutch-engineered sandwich panel systems, this ensures every project benefits from precision engineering, excellent thermal performance and long-term reliability.

Why Choose Us?

Safety First

Fully insured
DBS checked employees
Qualified operatives

Nationwide Coverage

Working throughout the UK

30 Years Experience

Commercial glasshouse specialists

Minimal Disruption

Experience of working on live/operational sites

Frequently Asked Questions...

Why choose Commercial Glasshouse Contracts Ltd

Unlike general building contractors, we specialise exclusively in the commercial horticultural sector. With over 30 years of industry experience, we understand the unique demands of commercial glasshouses and the environments within them. Our specialist knowledge allows us to work efficiently and with minimal disruption to your operations, while providing practical solutions that help you maintain, protect and maximise the performance of your glasshouse facilities.

Can an existing glasshouse be re-roofed instead of being replaced?

Yes. In many cases, an existing glasshouse structure can be retained and upgraded rather than completely replaced. Re-roofing can provide a cost-effective way of extending the useful life of the structure while improving its weather protection, thermal performance and suitability for its intended use.

Before any work is proposed, we assess the existing structure to determine its condition and whether it is suitable for re-roofing.

What can you use to re-roof a commercial glasshouse?

Depending on the structure and its intended use, we can install a range of roofing solutions including polycarbonate, composite panels and other specialist roofing systems.

The most suitable material will depend on factors such as the existing glasshouse structure, spans, loading requirements, insulation requirements, ventilation and how the building will be used.

Can a glasshouse be converted from glass to polycarbonate?

Yes. Existing glasshouse structures can often be adapted from traditional glass glazing to polycarbonate roofing.

We can design and supply bespoke fixing and bar-cap systems to suit the existing structure, including systems for 10mm and 16mm polycarbonate.

Can you re-purpose an old glasshouse for a different use?

Yes. An existing glasshouse can potentially be repurposed for a wide range of commercial applications. Depending on the structure and its condition, we can help convert existing glasshouse space into areas such as:

Garden centre retail space
Cafés and restaurants
Customer seating areas
Offices
Educational or community spaces
Storage and warehouse areas
Potting or production areas
Covered retail and display areas

Re-purposing an existing structure can provide a practical alternative to demolishing and replacing it.

Can you convert a glasshouse into a garden centre retail area?

Yes. We can adapt existing glasshouse structures to create enclosed retail environments.

This can involve replacing glass with polycarbonate or insulated composite panels, adapting the roof and gable ends, upgrading gutters and drainage, and designing bespoke connection details to suit the existing framework.

Do you need to replace the whole glasshouse when re-purposing it?

Not necessarily. One of the advantages of repurposing an existing glasshouse is that the original structural framework can potentially be retained.

We assess the condition and suitability of the existing structure before determining which elements need to be repaired, replaced or upgraded.

Can you design bespoke roofing systems for unusual glasshouse structures?

Yes. Not every existing glasshouse fits a standard roofing system.

We can design bespoke components and connection details to work with existing structures, including specialist ridge systems, gutter conversions, bar-cap systems and profiles for polycarbonate and composite panel roofing.

Can you improve the insulation of an existing glasshouse?

Yes. Replacing traditional single glazing with suitable polycarbonate or insulated composite panel systems can significantly change the thermal characteristics of an existing structure.

The appropriate solution will depend on the building’s intended use and the level of thermal performance required.

Do you use 3D design when developing bespoke glasshouse components?

Yes. We can use 3D design and 3D printing to develop and test bespoke components before moving to final manufacture. This allows us to develop practical solutions for unusual or challenging existing structures.

Can you re-roof a glasshouse while the site remains operational?

Where practical, yes. We understand that many commercial glasshouses form part of an operating business, so we plan projects carefully to minimise disruption.

The programme and working arrangements will depend on the size, condition and location of the structure and the nature of the proposed works.

Can you provide a complete re-roofing and repurposing service?

Yes. We can assist with the project from initial assessment and design through to the supply and installation of the new roofing or cladding system.

Our specialist experience means we can also deal with the associated structural repairs, bespoke components, gutter conversions and other adaptations that may be required.

Can you assess our existing glasshouse and advise what is possible?

Yes. If you have an existing glasshouse that you are considering re-roofing, converting or repurposing, we can assess the structure and discuss your proposed use.

Every glasshouse is different, so our aim is to find a practical solution that makes the best possible use of the structure you already have.

Thinking About a Roof Upgrade?

From large-scale production glasshouses to specialist research facilities, every re-roofing project is tailored to your premises, crop requirements and climate control needs. Whether you are replacing ageing glass with robust polycarbonate, upgrading to composite panels, or installing a high-insulation sandwich panel system, we deliver long-lasting solutions that enhance your working environment and reduce long-term operational costs.