Conservatories

Adding a conservatory to your property will not only add a value of up to 10% to your house, but will change the way you live and use the space in and around your home. A conservatory provides you with an extra room which is an extension of both your home and your garden. It will provide you with excellent views to the exterior of your property and can be used in all seasons. This new space will provide you with an area where you can relax, entertain or dine. It can also exist as an exotic greenhouse where you can keep and appreciate your house plants.

Conservatory Types & Styles

Conservatories come in all shapes and sizes. Timber framed or uPVC framed conservatories are available in a variety of designs to suit the style of your property. From Edwardian and Victorian styles to ultra modern and lean-to conservatories you are spoilt for choice. You can choose where to position opening windows and doors and where to situate your conservatory.

Many people are opting to extend their property by adding a conservatory as a more economical option to actually moving house. In some rare cases conservatories require planning permission, and so it is important to look into this before going ahead with building plans, as well as considering conservatory building regulations.

When looking for a suitable company to provide you with your chosen conservatory, you may wish to ask them a few relevant questions before signing anything. For example, what kind of conservatory base and floor will they use and does this involve digging a trench, will this be effected by tree roots and will some trees need to be felled, what about the positioning of drainage pipes?

When deciding between timber and uPVC frames it is worth remembering that wood will require more maintenance than uPVC. UPVC will need wiping occasionally and although timber is an aesthetically attractive option, it will need to be retreated regularly and replaced over time. UPVC conservatories are less expensive than hardwood conservatories. You have a choice of which type of hardwood to use, oak being extremely durable and long lasting. This is a particularly popular option for period houses in conservation areas.

When considering which style of conservatory to have it may be worth thinking about whether it will accommodate blinds, heating and air conditioning systems. A glass roof may look attractive but on sunny summer days will allow too much heat into the room for comfort, in which case you may opt for a solid roof or a special glazing that reflects much of the sunlight off the conservatory. In addition, you may choose whether to have double or single glazing fitted.

There are hundreds of conservatory company websites online, offering advice and information to get you started on your search. For those people who want a DIY option, there is plenty of information to help you design and construct the conservatory of your dreams.