Want to Add a Conservatory? Here’s How to Prepare

Table of Contents

1. Assess Whether or Not a Conservatory is Suitable for Your Property
2. Choose the Right Glazing, Doors, and Roof
3. Check All Relevant Safety Regulations
4. Research Materials for Your Conservatory
5. Consider Hiring a Professional Builder or Installer
6. Don’t Forget About Maintenance Needs

Adding a conservatory to your home can be an exciting way to expand your living space, create a bright and airy atmosphere, and bring the outdoors in. But before you get too carried away with visions of relaxation and leisurely afternoons spent sipping tea in the sun, there are several factors you should consider first.

From assessing whether or not a conservatory would be suitable for your property to ensuring that all relevant safety regulations are met, there is plenty of groundwork involved when planning this type of home addition. To ensure that everything goes smoothly throughout the process – from conception to completion – read on for our guide on how to prepare for adding a conservatory!

Assess Whether or Not a Conservatory is Suitable for Your Property

When considering the addition of a conservatory to your home, it’s important to consider whether or not such an extension would be suitable for your property. Firstly, you should check the size of your garden and access points to determine if it’s large enough and easy enough to install. It’s also advisable to assess which direction your existing windows face as this will have a direct impact on how much natural light can enter the new space.

The best way to determine whether a conservatory would be suitable for your home is to consult an architect or other professional who can offer advice and guidance. They will be able to inform you of any planning permission issues, as well as advise on the best layout and design options available.

Choose the Right Glazing, Doors, and Roof

The type of glazing you choose for your conservatory will have a direct impact on how much light is allowed in, as well as how much heat is retained during colder months. Generally speaking, double-glazed units with low-emissivity coatings are best for conservatories as they offer the highest level of insulation while also reducing external noise.

When it comes to doors, you should consider both security and aesthetics to ensure that your conservatory provides an airtight seal and looks great while doing so. Sliding and French doors are the most popular choices when it comes to conservatories, but we are sure to check how easy they will be to open, as well as their durability.

Last but not least, the roof of your conservatory needs to be well-insulated and strong enough to protect the space from harsh weather conditions. As noted by the folks from Leka Conservatory Roof, roofing tile systems are among the best options available as they offer superior weatherproofing, ventilation, and light control. It is also essential to consider if any type of roof light is required – this will depend on the design and layout requirements.

Check All Relevant Safety Regulations

Before any work begins, all relevant safety regulations must be checked – from the structural integrity of your property to the materials being used in construction. In most cases, a conservatory won’t require planning permission if it meets specific criteria, such as its size when compared to existing structures and its proximity to neighboring properties. However, if you intend to undertake larger-scale works, such as building an extended roof or installing a base, then planning permission may be necessary.

You can find out more about the relevant regulations in your area by checking with your local authority or consulting a professional. In most cases, any work you undertake will need to be signed off by Building Control before it can be completed.

Research Materials for Your Conservatory

Before you start researching materials, it’s important to decide on the type of conservatory you would like based on size and style. This will determine which materials are suitable, as not all will be compatible with every design option. For example, if you’re looking for a classic look, then brick, stone, wood, or PVC-u may be best, whereas aluminum is better suited to modern designs.

Make sure that whatever material you choose meets all relevant building regulations – such as insulation requirements – while also offering enough durability and weatherproofing to ensure it stands the test of time.

Consider Hiring a Professional Builder or Installer

Although many people opt for self-build solutions when adding a conservatory, hiring a professional installer is often the best option if you’re looking for a quality finish that meets all safety regulations. A reputable builder or installer can help you find the right materials for your project, as well as advise you on the best placement and design options.

It’s also worth considering whether a builder could help you to make any necessary alterations to your existing home, such as adding additional foundations or walls. This is particularly important if you need to make changes to the roof of your property for your conservatory to fit. Not only will this improve the quality of the finish, but it can also save time and provide peace of mind that all work has been completed professionally.

If you’re looking to have a bespoke conservatory installed, you must hire a qualified professional – preferably one that is registered with the relevant trade associations in your area. This will ensure that all work undertaken meets the highest standards and offers lasting protection from the elements.

Don’t Forget About Maintenance Needs

While there are many benefits to having a conservatory, it is important to bear in mind that these spaces require regular maintenance. This includes cleaning windows regularly and ensuring that the roofing system remains free from debris, as well as checking for any signs of damage or wear and tear.

It’s also important to regularly inspect the structure of your conservatory, paying particular attention to seals around doors and windows as well as any frame joints – these should be checked at least once every six months. Regular inspections can help you identify any potential problems early on, allowing you to take corrective action before they become major issues.

So, before you start building your new conservatory, make sure you understand the maintenance needs of these structures and have a plan in place for keeping them in good condition. This will help to ensure that your conservatory looks great for years to come and provides maximum enjoyment for all users.

Overall, adding a conservatory is an exciting project that can give homes a whole new lease on life. But by following the above steps you can ensure that your conservatory is designed, built, and maintained to the highest possible standards. Just be sure to find a reputable builder or installer and take the time to thoroughly research all design, building, and maintenance issues before you start. Good luck, and enjoy your new space!

Thank you for reading!