A conservatory can be a beautiful addition to your home when planned properly. They bring many benefits to your space, and can help upgrade your home without moving. Before you get started however, there are a few things that are useful to think about.
At G&L Windows our friendly team can help guide you through this process smoothly. Get in touch online or by giving us a call on 01234 771100.
Why should I get a conservatory?
First things first – why should you get a conservatory?
A conservatory can bring many benefits to your home – with the most obvious being the extra space you gain. Although many people use this as an extra living room, there are few limits as to what you can use it for. The natural light can make it a great study, or dining area for when guests are over.
Aside from practicality, a conservatory can help improve the energy efficiency of your home. The extra room can help create a ‘buffer zone’, helping to keep your home cool in the heat and warm in the cold.
It can also be a great idea if you’re looking to sell at some point in your future. The extra space can boost the appeal of your home and sale price (by up to 15%!) if done right.
1. Which type of conservatory works best
Many people don’t realise that there’s multiple different types of conservatory that you can get. It’s a good idea to research and decide between the options before you start the process.
There may be limitations on which conservatory you can have depending on your home. Some examples include:
- Edwardian – This is one of the most popular conservatory choices. They tend to be square with a sloping roof.
- Victorian – Can look appear similar to an Edwardian, but often have rounded fronts.
- Gable-end – Mimics a traditional roof with a higher apex, maximising internal space.
- Lean-to – One of the simplest styles. The roof is flatter, making it a better option for those with reduced space and/or budget.
2. Which windows and doors you’re looking for
The windows and doors you choose for your conservatory play a bigger part than you may initially think. Ideally you want your conservatory to look like an extension of your home – so you may want to opt for windows and doors that flow.
French doors are a popular style for conservatories as they have a classic appearance that doesn’t go out of style. Bi-fold and patio doors are two other great options; the best choice for you depends on the style of conservatory you’re going for.
At G&L Windows, all our conservatories are installed with high-quality UPVC windows and doors as standard. UPVC boasts durability and great insulating properties, aswell as requiring low maintenance.
3. If you need planning permission
“Will I need planning permission?” is one of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to getting a conservatory.
The guidelines can sometimes be tricky to understand, however a rule of thumb is you will need it if it covers more than 50% of the area of your home. This isn’t the only criteria however – other factors come into play such as where it will be positioned.
A reputable installation company should have plenty of experience and knowledge regarding planning permission, so they should be able to give you an estimate of if they think it will be required.
A conservatory is a great addition to many homes, creating a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces. If you’re based in or around the Bedfordshire area, get in touch with our friendly team online or by calling 01234 771100.
