1. Choosing & Planning Your Conservatory
What style is right for me?
Have a look at our conservatory showroom for information on our more popular ranges or call us to discuss your ideas and needs. We will be delighted to discuss the different options available and prepare a quotation and CAD drawings to your exact design.
How much will it cost?
Dwarf wall conservatories cost less to buy than full-height frame models, but of course you have to allow for extra labour and materials to build the wall. We are always happy to prepare quotations and drawings for a variety of styles and sizes. Some extra items, such as Pilkington K Glass, cost a little more to buy but will pay for themselves through reduced heating bills.
Do I need Planning Permission?
If your property has not previously been extended most conservatories do not require Planning Permission. We have more information on planning permission in our Frequently Asked Questions section. But if you are in any doubt, we recommend you contact your Local Authority.
What about Building Regulations?
Conservatories are classed as temporary structures, and as such do not generally have to conform to and Building Regulations unless:
- They are over 30m² floor area.
- You intend to install plumbing.
- There is no barrier between the house and conservatory so that the same air flow circulates. Installing external grade doors between your house and conservatory (or simply retaining doors that are already there) avoids this issue.
- You intend to heat your conservatory using your house’s central heating system and cannot isolate the conservatory radiator. It is usually enough to simply fit a thermostatic valve to the radiator.
For more detailed information we recommend you contact Building Control Department of your local Council.
You also need to check the proposed site new conservatory for anything that may restrict the space available or cause problems with installation.
Check the house walls for restrictions - eg central heating flue, overflow pipes, position of doors and windows. At ground level, look for obvious manholes and bear in mind the position and depth of underground pipes. You need to make sure you can avoid or bridge pipes so they are not damaged by foundations. If this presents a problem, it may be worth considering a steel base, which can be built with access hatches for manholes and does not cause disturbance to drains.
For more information about drains download our advice sheet on bridging pipes and drains
Other things to consider
Height restrictions: particularly if you are building onto a bungalow or single storey extension?
Drainage: is there a drain nearby that you can use to take rainwater your conservatory’s roof or will you need to create a soakaway?
Got a problem? We’re here to help - feel free to call us anytime you need advice. We can often suggest ways of getting round potential problems on site.
Site Preparation: Starting building work »