A conservatory ia a room or enclosure built with glass walls and roof panels and can be a wonderful addition to your home. They are filled with light, and can be used as a greenhouse, a covered entertaining area, or a relaxed living room. They can be added on to the back of an existing property, or they can be free standing. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind when you decide to build a conservatory on your property.

DIY or professional builders

One of the first choices you’ll have to make is to decide if you want to build the conservatory yourself, or get some professional builders in to build it for you. There are quite a few conservatory kits on the market that you can build yourself, and it’s a good idea to visit a number of suppliers and showrooms and see what’s available. Keep an eye out for the materials used, and make sure both the glass and frames are good quality. If you’re not up to building it yourself, make sure that the professionals know about foundations, materials, and building permits. You could also ask to examples of past work.

Style and price

Depending on what you’ll be using your conservatory for, choosing what style of conservatory is fairly important. Are you wanting a traditional, Victorian-style enclosure, or something more sleek and modern? Do you want it to match your existing home and blend in seamlessly, or do you want it to make a bold statement? Consider how large you want it to be as well. Also worth considering here is your budget. Some styles are going to be more expensive than others, and DIY cuts building costs, but how much you’re willing to spend will determine what you can actually choose from. And keep in mind that there may be hidden or extra costs above the cost of the kit. Don’t be afraid to get a number of different quotes from builders and companies.

Purpose

What exactly are you going to be using the conservatory for? Is it going to be an entertaining area at the back of your home? Are you looking for a greenhouse where you can grow plants, flowers and vegetables? Or is it to going to be a relaxing sunroom? This will also help you determine the style and price of the conservatory, and what other features it will need. If it’s a living or entertaining area, you’ll need to consider blinds, heating, and the type of glazing required for the glass.

Environmental control

Because your conservatory is almost completely glass, you will need to consider how the season and the weather will affect it. During summer, it has the potential to become very hot, and in winter, it can lose heat and stay very cold. Double glazing the windows and the glass roof will help control the temperature in the conservatory. It’s also worth thinking about thermal glazing and safety laminate glass. A professional glazier will be able to give you more information.

To find a glazier that can help with your conservatory, begin your search here.