6 Considerations When Adding a Conservatory to Your Home

While a conservatory was originally used for growing plants, homeowners now use the luxurious space to experience the beauty of their garden while enjoying the comfort of the indoors. Plus, as it will increase your property’s square footage, it can add value onto the price of your home.

Before you rush into the installation process, however, you will want to know these six considerations to make when adding a conservatory to your home.

1.   The Right Company

While a beautiful conservatory can add value onto your home, it can also detract from its sales price if it is poorly installed. To ensure you only incorporate a luxurious conservatory into your home, you must hire a dependable company that is registered with a governing body.

2.   The Correct Hardware

It’s important you have a firm understanding of the hardware that will be included in your conservatory’s bi-fold doors, such as the:

·         Door handles

·         Security locks

·         Hinges

·         Rollers

·         Shoot bolt mechanisms

After all, you’ll want to know you can easily find replacement hardware from the likes of Debar should you need to in the future.

3.   Planning Permission

Not all homeowners will need to apply for planning permission when adding a conservatory onto their homes. However, you will need to do so if it is more than four metres high, taller than an existing roof, and will cover more than half of the area of land surrounding the property.

While you can apply for planning permission yourself, a dependable company will often handle this process on your behalf, as they will have experience managing the paperwork and communicating with local planning officials.

4.   Building Regulations

While planning permission controls a property’s aesthetic appeal, building regulations will determine its structural integrity. Fortunately, many homeowners don’t need to worry about building regulations when installing a conservatory, especially if the external walls, windows and doors are separated from the main house. It is, however, a smart idea to seek advice about planning permission rules and regulations to ensure you don’t make a big mistake, which could lead to the local council ordering you to remove a conservatory.

5.   The Conservatory’s Position

Many people might not give the direction of their conservatory a second thought, but it can determine the heating, flooring and ventilation you will require.

For example, a north-facing conservatory will more than likely be much cooler than south-facing, as it will welcome less sunlight. So, while you won’t need to worry about overheating during summer, you can guarantee the space will require heating and insulation during winter.

However, if you have a south-facing conservatory, you’ll need to ensure it features plenty of ventilation, as it could become uncomfortably warm once the sun starts to shine.

6.   Your Frame Choice

Most conservatories are available in one of three frame options:

• uPVC
• Aluminium
• Timber

The option you choose will determine your budget, aesthetics and durability. For example, if you want to develop a natural look from a sustainable source, timber can be an ideal choice. Plus, the conservatory frame can be exceptionally durable, but only if you routinely treat it with an exterior finish to prevent weather damage.

Alternatively, aluminium is well-regarded for its strong design and attractive appeal, and it can also add more value onto your property in comparison to cheaper uPVC frames.

With a great company that is recognised by institutions such as FENSA or the Glass and Glazing Federation, great hardware, and a plan of action, you can enjoy a great conservatory that works with your home and lifestyle.