What is a Conservatory?

Many customers are still confused and do not understand what a conservatory is and the difference between an extension.

The term conservatory originates comes from an actual greenhouse with a tarpaulin roof. Other definitions of ‘what is a conservatory’, states that it is a home extension with ½ of each wall made of glass. It also states that at least three quarters of the roof is made from a translucent building material or clear glass.

Thankfully things have developed over the recent years and conservatories are now living spaces. The main purpose for conservatories is the ability to view the outside. However, conservatories have become unpopular as they were originally designed with mainly glass. This made the conservatory too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. However, solid conservatory roofs have become the recent trend. This comprises of removing the old polycarbonate or glass roof and replacing it with a tiled roof instead. Though tiled roof conservatories prevent a lot of the natural light getting into the room, glazing and dormer windows can be installed into the tiled roof to counter this issue.

What is the difference between a conservatory and an extension?

A conservatory is not limited as you can use it as a rest room, office or even a playroom. Whereas an extension is designed to extend the original living space created by the house. An extension will have solid walls and a solid roof and must perform to building regulations.

Conservatories and an extension are both designed to create extra living space. However, the conservatory due to its structured design being primary glazed, can be classified as a permitted development.

As the conservatory could be categorised as a permitted development, then the conservatory can avoid the requirements for planning permission and building regulations.

To summarise, a conservatory is still a form of an extension, however it is built with more glass than an extension. An extension will cost a lot more than a conservatory due to larger foundations, solid roof and applications for building regulations and planning permission.

What are the popular features on a conservatory?

Polycarbonate conservatory roof

The cheapest form of conservatory will have a polycarbonate roof. Polycarbonate is extremely light which allows the structure to remain light. Due to its tremendously low price this has made the polycarbonate roofs so popular.

One of the downfalls for using polycarbonate on a conservatory roof, is that it is extremely noisy when it rains and far too hot in the summer weather.

Glass roof conservatories

A double glazed conservatory roof is an excellent choice. With tinted solar control self-cleaning conservatory roofs available, this can reflect most of the sun glare whilst controlling the room temperature at the same time.

Tiled conservatory roof

With a tiled conservatory roof replacement can totally alter the look, feeling and warmth of your conservatory. These tiled conservatory roofs are ultra-light as they are manufactured using aluminium and lightweight synthetic tiles. With a wide range of colour choices, you can be reassured we will have the tile and colour for you.

Conservatory accessories

There are numerous accessories which can be incorporated into a conservatory, such as tinted glass, patterned glass, or even coloured glass.

Other accessories would include remote control ceiling fans and lights. Electronic vents, manual vents, thermostats etc.

Conservatory design and colour choices

When we take a look at the different styles of conservatories there are so many to choice from. From the popular Lean-To to the Victorian conservatory. These can be constructed in either UPVC or aluminium. When it comes to colour, there is near enough unlimited selections, from white to anthracite, the choice is yours.

What are the benefits of having a conservatory?

A conservatory can offer a huge amount of additional living space which can be used for various different reasons. From an extra living-room, dining room, play area or even a kitchen extension, whatever your requirements a conservatory is ideal for you.

A conservatory will not only allow you to enjoy this additional new space, but you can enjoy that stunning panoramic view of your garden too.

Will a conservatory add value to my property?

As a conservatory offers a supplementary room to your current home, then potential buyers will be willing to pay extra for that property. By already having a conservatory installed to this house will save the hassle and additional money to purchase one for themselves. However, by having a modern conservatory with a tiled roof or an Ultra roof conservatory, this will attract prospective purchasers, due to its elegance and general appeal.

What is the best type of conservatory?

There are so many different types and configurations of conservatories on the market today. If we begin with the Victorian conservatory, this comprises of a pitched roof with a bay front and ornate roof.

The T-shapes conservatory is a combination of the Victorian with either the Gable-end or Georgian conservatory. The T-shaped conservatory is extremely versatile allowing two distinctive living areas.

Lean-To conservatory, is either rectangular or square in appearance. It is attached from the property with a sloping down roof, this allows the rain to run off the roof.

Georgian conservatory has a flat front and either a square or rectangular appearance. The Georgian conservatories are often built onto period properties such as from the 18^th and 19^th centuries.

Gable-end conservatories, otherwise known as Pavilion conservatories. Designed with the basic square or rectangle footprint. With an Edwardian style roof except from sloping forward it offers a triangular appearance like a gable-end of a house.

What is best a conservatories or an extensions?

By purchasing a conservatory (depending on size and requirements) should not require planning permission or adhere to building regulations. However a traditional house extension will require to follow build permission and will be required to have a tiled roof and mostly made from bricks and mortar.

The conservatory will also be far cheaper in price due to the general structure and requirements need for a conservatory.

Conclusion

If you require a little extra living space and wish to bring the outside into your home, then a conservatory is the way to go. A conservatory will save you money, time, whilst offering a sophistication appeal. Conservatories are perfect for that little extra living space, whether it’s a living room, play area or study.