New year, new conservatory. Are you making plans to have a new conservatory built this year?
If so, here are a few aspects to consider.
What’s your budget?
Start with the size and position of your conservatory when getting your initial quote. Once you have this figure, you can then decide on optional extras.
Materials used and glazing options will vary. uPVC is a cost-effective and low maintenance choice, whilst aluminium gives greater longevity. Another consideration is the glass with a range of different specifications available at different costs.
However, the latest technology used in double-glazing makes glass an attractive choice for a conservatory. Energy-efficient glazing will reduce sun glare and enable a more even temperature all year round.
Where do you want to position your new conservatory?
Usually, conservatories are built at the back of a property, so they lead out into the garden. Plus, there’s generally more space available at the rear.
However, you could choose to have your conservatory to the side of your property - as long as it’s more than one metre away from the boundary and complies with planning permission conditions.
A south-facing conservatory will catch more sun, so you’ll need to consider glass specification, ventilation and blinds. A north-facing conservatory will be colder in winter, so will need to consider this in your designs and will need sufficient heating.
Who takes care of groundworks?
At Crown, we organise a site consultation, when a full technical survey takes place. Plans of the base and technical drawings of the framework and roof are prepared.
Particular attention is given to drainage and allowances for plumbing, electrics, access for materials and appropriate lead flashing requirements will be noted. When you’re ready to proceed, an installation manager will plan the groundworks, waste removal and construction of the base.
Is planning permission needed?
In most cases, conservatories don’t need planning permission. You won’t need to apply for planning permission if the conservatory:
- Doesn’t exceed four metres in height and is no higher than the roof of your property.
- Doesn’t front or obstruct a public road.
- Doesn't cover more than half of the land area of the original house.
- Doesn't include a balcony, veranda or raised platform.
- Does not extend more than four metres – for a detached house.
- Does not extend more than three metres – for a non-detached house.
Do building regulations apply?
You won’t need building regulations approval if your conservatory:
- Is on the ground level and covers less than 30 square metres in total.
- Has its own independent heating system and separate temperature controls.
- Has glazing and electrical installations that comply with all applicable building regulations requirements.
- Has an external grade door between the conservatory and your home.
Will a conservatory complement your property?
Modern, traditional or period property, you can still enjoy everything a conservatory has to offer without detracting from the character of your home.
If you have a Victorian home, our Victorian-style conservatories with pitched roof, ornate ridge and bay window frontage, will suit your property.
Alternatively, our Edwardian conservatories are square for a classic look, with a roof that’s usually made up of three sections, sloping upwards from the outer edge of the conservatory to meet the centre ridge. You could also choose a series of small windows at the top of the frames.
Edwardian conservatories are a popular choice for modern and period homes while Gable Front conservatories work well with older properties as their features reflect traditional building styles. Gable Front conservatories have an upright front panel and high roof slope that provides space and offers plenty of natural light.
Would you like advice on your new conservatory?
Crown Conservatories and Windows has been installing double glazed windows for over 20 years using market-leading products. Please view our Conservatory Buyer Guide for more information and to help you get started.
We can advise on the best products and styles to suit your home and lifestyle. To find out more, call us on 01252 617385 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.