Conservatories

Conservatories are generally classified as “permitted development,” meaning planning permission is not usually required. This allows you to add a conservatory without the need for approval, unless your design exceeds specific development requirements set by local authorities. However, we strongly recommend checking whether full planning permission is necessary, as this can save you from potential legal and financial issues. Building without proper permission could result in costly fines or even having to remove the structure.

If your conservatory does not meet permitted development rules, planning permission will be required. In such cases, our team will handle the entire process on your behalf, ensuring compliance with council regulations and keeping you informed every step of the way. For more information, visit our planning permission page.

Foundations are crucial for the stability and structural integrity of a conservatory. Without proper footings, a conservatory can experience shifting and movement over time, leading to issues such as misalignment and reduced weather tightness. For most single-storey conservatories or extensions, foundations typically range between 1000mm and 1500mm in depth, providing the necessary support to prevent future structural problems.

The type of foundation needed can vary based on factors such as soil type, ground conditions, local council regulations, and the size of the conservatory. Areas with clay soil, sloping ground, or high water tables may require deeper or reinforced foundations to provide adequate support. A tailored approach to laying foundations ensures that the conservatory remains level and secure, accommodating any specific challenges of the site.

In addition to providing stability, properly laid foundations help to protect the conservatory from potential moisture ingress and temperature fluctuations. By preventing the ingress of damp and maintaining structural integrity, well-designed foundations enhance the conservatory’s longevity and comfort. This investment in proper groundwork not only safeguards your conservatory but also contributes to a more energy-efficient and enjoyable living space throughout the year.

Understanding the differences between conservatories and orangeries is essential when deciding which option best suits your home. Both offer unique benefits, but their design, structure, and functionality set them apart. Here’s a detailed look at what makes each style unique.

Conservatories: Light-Filled, Garden-Focused Extensions

Conservatories are characterised by their extensive use of glass, designed to bring the outdoors in and maximise natural light. They feature glass walls and a glass roof, creating an airy, open space that feels connected to the garden. Typically framed with uPVC, aluminium, or timber, conservatories are ideal for homeowners looking to add a bright, sunlit room that blends seamlessly with the garden.

• Design and Structure: Predominantly made of glass, including fully glazed walls and roofs.
• Purpose: Designed to let in maximum light, offering an open, garden-focused feel.
• Cost and Installation: Generally more affordable and quicker to install than orangeries, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
• Insulation: While modern conservatories can be designed with improved insulation, they are generally less insulated compared to orangeries, making them best suited for summer use unless additional heating and insulation are added.

Orangeries: Elegant, Substantial, and Versatile Spaces

Orangeries are a blend of conservatory and traditional extension, offering a more solid and integrated look that blends beautifully with existing architecture. Featuring a combination of brickwork, large windows, and a partially glazed roof, orangeries offer the feel of a permanent room while still allowing plenty of light inside. The roof design often includes a central glass lantern, adding height and an elegant touch to the space.

• Design and Structure: Combines solid elements like brick or stone with large windows and a roof lantern.
• Purpose: Provides a more substantial, room-like feel that can be used comfortably throughout the year.
• Insulation and Comfort: With more solid walls and improved insulation, orangeries offer better temperature control, making them suitable for year-round use.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Orangeries add a sense of grandeur and elegance, often seen as a stylish and luxurious addition to any home.

Key Differences Between Conservatories and Orangeries

1. Materials and Appearance: Conservatories use more glass, creating a lighter, more transparent structure, while orangeries feature more solid materials like brick, providing a robust and traditional feel.
2. Functionality: Conservatories are ideal for connecting indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for garden views. Orangeries, with their enhanced insulation, serve as versatile living spaces that can be used in all seasons.
3. Planning Considerations: Both conservatories and orangeries may be classified as “permitted development,” but it’s always best to check local planning requirements, especially for orangeries due to their more substantial structure.

Choosing between a conservatory and an orangery depends on your preferences, budget, and how you intend to use the space. Whether you want a bright, garden-facing room or a more integrated and insulated extension, both options offer beautiful and functional ways to enhance your home.

The lifespan of a conservatory can vary significantly depending on the quality of its construction, the materials used, and how well it is maintained over time. A well-built, modern conservatory can last for many years, providing a beautiful and functional addition to your home. Regular maintenance is key to preserving its appearance and structural integrity, ensuring it stands the test of time.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Your Conservatory’s Lifespan:

• Regular Cleaning: Keeping your conservatory clean is essential to its longevity. Dirt, moss, and grime can accumulate on the roof and frames, potentially causing damage if left unchecked. Regularly cleaning the roof and windows using extendable pole cleaners allows you to reach higher areas safely, without needing a ladder.
• Check Seals and Frames: Inspect the seals, frames, and joints periodically to ensure they remain weatherproof. Address any minor repairs promptly to prevent more significant issues from developing over time.
• Maintain the Roof: The roof is a crucial part of your conservatory that needs attention. Removing moss and debris will help prevent water damage and maintain the overall appearance. Regular inspections will help you spot any early signs of wear or damage, allowing for timely repairs.

Longevity Guarantees and Factors Affecting Durability:

• Guarantees: The durability of a conservatory is often backed by guarantees from the manufacturer. For example, Sunshine guarantees the base of its conservatories for 10 years and the sealed glass units for 15 years, reflecting their confidence in the quality of their products.
• Factors Influencing Lifespan: The overall longevity of your conservatory depends on several factors, including the quality of the build, the type of materials used (such as uPVC, aluminium, or timber), and the level of maintenance it receives. High-quality conservatories built with robust materials and good insulation are more likely to last longer.

With proper care, a conservatory can remain a valuable and attractive part of your home for decades. Investing time in maintenance and choosing quality materials will help ensure your conservatory continues to provide a comfortable and stylish space for years to come.

When considering adding extra space to your home, cost is often a significant factor. Generally, conservatories are more affordable than traditional extensions, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking to increase their living space without breaking the bank. The cost difference largely comes down to the construction process, materials used, and the level of complexity involved in building each type of structure.

Cost Comparison: Conservatory vs Extension

• Conservatories: Typically, conservatories are less expensive because they have a simpler design and use more lightweight materials, such as uPVC, glass, and aluminium. The construction process is usually quicker, with less disruption to your home. A conservatory can start at a lower price point depending on the size, style, and materials you choose. Conservatories often fall under “permitted development,” reducing the need for planning permission, which can also help keep costs down.
• Extensions: Extensions are generally more costly due to their solid structure, which includes substantial foundations, brickwork, and roofing similar to the rest of your home. They involve more complex building work, often including plumbing, electrics, and additional finishes, all of which can increase the overall cost. Extensions also typically require planning permission and building regulations approval, which can add to both the time and expense of the project.

Why Choose a Conservatory?

• Lower Initial Costs: Conservatories are a cost-effective way to add space, offering a bright and airy room without the expense of a full extension.
• Faster Installation: The construction process for conservatories is usually quicker, meaning less disruption and a shorter wait to enjoy your new space.
• Planning Permission: Most conservatories are considered permitted developments, avoiding the need for lengthy planning permission processes.

Why Choose an Extension?

• More Integrated Look: Extensions blend seamlessly with your existing home, providing a more permanent and cohesive addition that feels like part of the original building.
• Greater Flexibility: Extensions allow for more design flexibility, including solid walls, varied layouts, and the potential for additional plumbing or bespoke finishes.

Ultimately, the choice between a conservatory and an extension depends on your budget, the purpose of the new space, and how integrated you want the addition to feel with the rest of your home. Conservatories are usually the cheaper option, but extensions offer a more substantial, long-term solution that can increase the overall value of your property.