For anyone with excessive garden space that they can’t keep on top of, building a conservatory is a viable option. Conservatories can be used for anything and everything, whether you’re looking for an extra dining room, an added living room, a kitchen extension, or something else. Not only do conservatories maximize your space, but they add value to your property as and when you may decide to sell. Despite this, building a conservatory is lengthy and disruptive work, meaning that there’s a lot to consider before the process commences.
Think About Your Space
First thing’s first, you need to consider the space that you have available to you. Not only does the size have to be of consideration, but also the shape and style of your conservatory. Additionally, you’ll have to evaluate the direction in which your house is facing, as this will affect your use of materials. For example, a north-facing conservatory will require ample insulation and an effective heating solution. Alternatively, a south-facing conservatory will trap heat quite easily since it’ll be subjected to sun for the majority of the day.
You need to be sure that you don’t overestimate what you can do with your space, as it can be easy to put too much pressure on your project. Some things will simply not be possible when it comes to space restrictions, and you need to bear this in mind as you begin to think up your conservatory.
Track Down the Materials
Typically speaking, constructions such as conservatories will be formed of steel box sections. Despite this, the material you use will be affected by the design that you opt for and the space that you have available to you. For example, when it comes to a south-facing conservatory, a tiled roof would be your best option. This is because it will get too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer, meaning that a glass roof isn’t particularly suitable. Tiles allow for greater insulation which results in better temperature control.
Acquire Planning Permission
As a rule of thumb, the building of a conservatory will require planning permission. This will be a big project that will cause disruptions, meaning that planning permission is likely to be a legal requirement. In order to obtain planning permission, either you or your construction company can contact your local authority. Some firms won’t charge for this service, but you might be required to pay a small fee with others.
Obtain Building Regulations
Most people are aware that planning permission will be required for such a project, but the building regulations are often forgotten about. Building regulations differ from planning permissions as your local authority will need to pull together a detailed building plan ahead of the works commencing. They will detail heat-loss calculations, complex details, and other site requirements upon giving you the go-ahead.
Establish a Timescale
Like available space, available time will be a restrictive factor when it comes to building a conservatory. You either have to allow plenty of time for the project to be complete or scale back your plans so that they can be completed within a shorter time frame. The duration of the works will also affect the cost, meaning that it’s important that you have ample funding to facilitate the needs of your project. You should always set aside more time and more money than you originally think is necessary to allow for any potential complications. If you plan for these complications, they won’t be as damaging to the overall process.
What will you do with your new conservatory?
