A conservatory is a glass-enclosed extension attached to your home, offering extra living space and bringing in natural light. It adds value, enhances aesthetics, and creates a comfortable area for relaxation, dining, or entertainment.

Hiring professional installers ensures a high-quality build that meets safety standards. You get expert advice, tailored design, and secure installation, helping to avoid costly repairs down the line.

The installation of a conservatory usually takes between 2 to 4 weeks. This timeframe can vary based on the conservatory’s size, design complexity, and any additional features you choose. Factors like weather conditions and site preparation may also impact the timeline.

In many cases, conservatories are exempt from planning permission if they meet specific conditions. However, requirements vary by location and conservatory type, so it’s wise to consult your installer or local council.

Conservatories are typically made from three main materials: UPVC, aluminium, and timber.

• UPVC: This is a popular choice due to its affordability, low maintenance, and durability. It’s also energy-efficient, helping to keep the conservatory comfortable in different weather conditions.
• Aluminium: Known for its strength and slim profiles, aluminium provides a sleek, modern look. It’s highly durable and resistant to rust, making it ideal for larger glass panels.
• Timber: For a more traditional appearance, timber offers natural beauty and excellent insulation. However, it requires regular maintenance to protect against weathering.

Each material has its benefits, and your choice will depend on your budget, style preference, and maintenance requirements.

To maintain your conservatory, clean the glass panels and frames regularly using a mild soap and water solution. This prevents dirt buildup and keeps your conservatory looking fresh. Check for any leaks, cracks, or signs of wear, particularly in the roof and joints, and address issues promptly to avoid further damage. Gutter cleaning is also essential to prevent blockages. 

Consider a professional inspection every couple of years to ensure everything is structurally sound and to spot any potential problems early. Regular maintenance helps extend your conservatory’s lifespan and keeps it comfortable year-round.

Yes, you can use a conservatory all year round with the right insulation and heating. Modern conservatories often come with double glazing and insulated roofs, which help regulate temperature. 

Adding options like underfloor heating or a portable heater in winter keeps the space comfortable even on cold days. In summer, features like ventilation or blinds prevent overheating. With these additions, a conservatory can be a practical, comfortable space no matter the season.

The average cost of a conservatory in the UK typically starts from around £10,000 for a basic model, but prices can vary widely based on size, materials, and design. Standard UPVC conservatories tend to be on the lower end, while bespoke designs using materials like aluminium or timber can cost more, often ranging between £15,000 and £40,000. 

For a more accurate estimate, it’s best to get a tailored quote from a professional installer, as costs will depend on the specific features and customisation options you choose.

Modern conservatories are built with energy-efficient materials that help regulate indoor temperature, reducing heating and cooling costs.

Absolutely. Conservatories can be tailored to fit your home’s style, from Victorian and Edwardian designs to lean-to or bespoke shapes. You can choose colours, materials, and additional features to suit your preferences.

While both are glass extensions, conservatories have more glass walls and roofs, creating an airy feel. Orangeries, in contrast, use more solid walling and provide a more insulated space.

Avoid placing items in a conservatory that are sensitive to temperature changes, direct sunlight, or high humidity. Here’s what to keep out:

1. Electronics: TVs, computers, and other electronics can overheat in direct sunlight or high temperatures, potentially causing damage.
2. Heat-sensitive items: Candles, wax ornaments, or items with glue-based decorations may melt or warp.
3. Delicate fabrics: Upholstery, rugs, or curtains made of materials prone to fading should be protected or avoided as they can bleach in sunlight.
4. Houseplants sensitive to heat or sun: Some plants, like ferns, may struggle in a conservatory’s intense light and heat. Choose hardy plants that thrive in these conditions.
5. Wood furniture without UV protection: Direct sunlight can fade and dry out untreated wood, leading to cracking or discolouration.

By selecting conservatory-friendly furnishings and materials, you’ll keep the space looking fresh and functional longer.

Consider factors like your home’s architecture, available space, and personal taste. Professional installers offer design consultations to help you make an informed choice.

A well-maintained conservatory can last 20-25 years or more. Regular upkeep and quality materials contribute to a longer lifespan.

The four-year rule allows certain unauthorised building works, including conservatories, to become lawful if they’ve been in place for at least four years without planning permission. 

If your conservatory has been built for four years or more without any enforcement action from the local council, it might be considered legally established, meaning you no longer need planning permission for it. However, it’s always best to consult with a professional to confirm your specific situation.

No, conservatories are not being banned. However, there is increasing regulation to ensure that conservatories meet energy efficiency standards. New building regulations focus on reducing heat loss and minimising energy consumption in homes, which affects how conservatories are designed and built. 

Conservatories must now use energy-efficient materials and glazing to meet these standards, ensuring they are better insulated and environmentally friendly. This doesn’t mean conservatories are banned; it simply means they need to meet stricter guidelines.

In the UK, conservatories are generally considered permitted developments, meaning you don’t need planning permission if certain conditions are met. These include:

• The conservatory doesn’t cover more than 50% of the land around the original house.
• It isn’t higher than the highest part of the existing roof.
• It doesn’t extend beyond the principal elevation or side elevation fronting a highway.
• For detached houses, it doesn’t extend more than 8 metres to the rear; for semi-detached or terraced houses, no more than 6 metres.

However, if your property is in a designated area (like a conservation area) or is a listed building, stricter rules apply, and you may need planning permission. Always consult your local planning authority to ensure compliance with current regulations.