5 Things to Consider when Buying a Conservatory

If you love your home but don’t want to move, adding living space to your existing property is becoming increasingly popular.

We know that moving causes major stress so it’s no surprise that many of our customers prefer to stay put but simply enhance their homes to make to it more suited to their lifestyle or their expanding brood.

As we’ve been building conservatories and orangeries for over fifteen years, you may be surprised to know that conservatories are an extension that never cease to be on trend.  

With their variety for scale and design, and the ability to adapt it into a room for any need, it’s a renovation that can truly turn a house into a home.

Of course, like with any big project there are always things to consider before you begin the process, so we’ve put together a list of the most common questions we’re asked to help you understand exactly what you need to think about.

What’s it for?

A conservatory can be a space for any need that your home currently doesn’t offer.

Perhaps you’d like a more glamorous room to entertain dinner party guests, or maybe you just need your own space away from the mess makers.

Deciding early on in the planning what your room is going to be used for will not only help the builders and architects create something you want, but it will ensure you make the most of the space that is created.

A popular feature for the conservatory is an extension onto the kitchen area, as it can create a more practical family dining space and become the centre of entertainment for any guests.

Should I budget for anything extra?

Once you’ve paid for your conservatory it’s probably a good idea to invest in some appropriate furniture that will suit the new space, and withstand the intense natural sunlight that will now occur.

Soft furnishings or light woods in pine work well in bright rooms and will not be bleached by regular exposure to sunlight.

Take some interior inspiration from home magazines and sites such as pinterest that can help you  find new ideas to create a completely unique room.

It also may be beneficial to spruce up your garden after a build, as once you’re settled into your cosy conservatory you’ll want to spend long days and nights admiring the scenic view.

How will I control the room temperature?

This is a question that still crops up, as many older single glazed conservatories would get hot very quickly with long hot summer days.

However with the innovations in glazing today, including our new range of conservatory roofs, this is no longer an issue faced by modern conservatories.

So you can sit back and enjoy this new room without worrying about temperature control.

Do I need planning permission?

Unfortunately this really depends on the style of the conservatory and just how big you think your build is going to be.

No matter your idea it’s best to consult with your local council who will be able to advise on whether you need planning permission or if you need to follow any specific building regulations.

It’s quite a lengthy process, so if you’re considering a build it’s worthwhile starting the questions as soon as possible.

In most cases, conservatories are passed quite easily, as long as you’ve taken into consideration your neighbours and the existing style of the house.

Don’t be put off your project by the idea of lengthy phone calls to the council, planning is not as strict as you may think, and as long as you’ve got a reputable tradesman by your side, the process will be stress free.

Do I need blinds?

You would think with all those excess windows you would need to heavily invest in blinds, but to be completely honest this is more often than not a personal preference and one centred more around security than being shielded from the sunlight.

Blinds certainly offer many benefits, and this is something we can guide you on during the building process. Not only can they help to deter burglars from peeping into your home, but it can also give you some privacy when required.

With such a variety of styles now available, you can find something to suit your conservatory without making you feel boxed in when it comes to closing them.

If you’re looking to build a conservatory onto your home, let us talk you through the steps you need to take and start you on your journey to a new and improved home. Contact us today and talk to our friendly and knowledgeable team.