ᐅ Transparent / opaque patio roof

Hello,

Now that it has been confirmed that we can attach a patio roof directly to the carport, the question remains whether to use transparent roofing sheets or the metal from the carport (with noise reduction, anti-condensation, etc.).

Advantages of transparent roofing sheets: bright, friendly atmosphere
Disadvantages of transparent roofing sheets: no sun protection

Advantages of metal roofing: sun protection during hot summers, easier to maintain since dirt is less visible
Disadvantages of metal roofing: the room behind is darker (which is not a big issue for us), noticeably cooler in autumn compared to transparent sheets (less heat gained through light)

When looking online, almost all options only show transparent roofing materials. That leaves me wondering how easy it is to keep such a roof clean. If stains remain after the first rain, then it’s probably not the right choice for me. What do you have? Any recommendations?

When I see how the glass canopy at friends’ houses already gets "ruined" during the construction phase before they even move in, I would avoid installing a glass roof over the terrace.
That’s why we chose a tiled (pitched) canopy instead.
I know my own laziness too well to commit to regular cleaning.

It might look great for about three months, but then it annoys you for another three months until your laziness wins and you finally get the ladder out to clean it.

In my opinion, it depends on how bothered you are by seeing dirt... as you said yourself, with a non-transparent roof the dirt is there just the same, but it doesn’t bother you.

Depending on your budget, there may be glass options with coatings that prevent dirt buildup.
I recently saw a documentary about the Elbphilharmonie where the glass is treated so it doesn’t need cleaning for 10 years.
A small side note: because of the long construction period, the coating had to be renewed shortly after opening.

Right now, it’s mainly the yellow pollen causing issues...

Well, most of them already have glass or translucent panels installed. But how do they keep them clean? Or is it actually not such a big deal in the end!?

Payday schrieb:
Well, most people already have glass or light panels on top. But how do they keep it clean? Or is it actually not such a big deal in the end!?

I can tell you ^^ My neighbors, around 75 years old, living in the amazing penthouse apartment with the conservatory, are on the glass roof every few weeks, scrubbing it with a mop, I think.

I just hope we never have an emergency situation---

We had a solid brick entrance canopy built instead of glass. I’m torn... it’s low-maintenance, yes, but unfortunately noticeably darker as well (not dramatically, but noticeable).