It’s the time of year where many are looking at their list of home improvements to do and the conservatory is often the one we put off. We tend to fall on either ends of the spectrum: it’s a high traffic room with plenty of use but is looking worse for wear or it’s become a dumping ground so we don’t really know its full condition. Whichever camp you’re in, it’s worth having a look at how much a refurbishment would cost.
For those who are considering adding a conservatory to their property, now is an ideal time to look. Thinking of getting it done during the spring means you can spend the entire summer using it for hosting guests and as a sunroom. This is your quick-fire guide to choose a conservatory style and roof to suit your home and lifestyle.
Types of conservatory
If you’re undecided as to which style you prefer, keep reading for the five most popular types of conservatory and what you need to know about them .
Lean-to – These were originally inspired by greenhouses with south-facing rooms to get more direct sunlight. They’re easy to install and look perfect on modern builds. The longest wall is attached to your property with a sliding roof leaning to your house, hence the name.
P-shaped – For larger homes, P-shaped conservatories are the best way to create even more room. Think of them as a combination of a lean-to style in shape mixed with Victoria facets and roofing. Because of their size, they can be made into two separate areas, such as a snug and a dining room.
Victorian – Probably the most classic choice, a Victorian conservatory has a pitched roof, usually with three or five facets. The open plan option allows you to have light coming in from three sides to maximise space too. The curved appearance gives it a timeless feel and is in-keeping with older buildings.
Edwardian – If you’re looking for a modern take on a Victorian roof, the Edwardian is definitely that. The rectangular floor space and ridged roof give you even more space, ideal for using as a dining room. The flat front and sloped roof give the illusion of extra room too, making it ideal for hosting and welcoming others.
Sunburst – These are a modern update of traditional Georgian conservatories but in this case, the roof doesn’t slope upwards towards the centre of the conservatory. Also known as gable-end conservatories, instead the end stands up right like an extra room or extension. They’re reminiscent of organies from years gone by, which is why they’re a traditional style but still feel contemporary.
Types of roofing
Now you’ve decided on the conservatory style, you need to decide on its roof. Again, discuss this with your installer as they will get a feel for not only how you will use the room but the upkeep you might have to put in.
Glass – For glass roofs, they must be at minimum double glazed but nowadays you can invest in self-cleaning or solar-controlled glass too. Self-cleaning does exactly what it says on the tin, using an invisible coating to harness ultraviolet energy to break down dirt that washes away in the rain. It sounds very high-tech but think of how little you’ll need to clean it yourself! Solar controlled glass works to protect you from UV rays whilst allowing the sun to still shine through. The tint will also reduce glare from the sun so you can use it as a family room for movie nights.
Hybrid solids – If you want your conservatory to feel more like an extension to your house, a hybrid solid roof is best for you. You’ll still get the light from the sides but the roof itself will stop the room from getting too hot from direct sunlight. It will retain any heat, making it a conservatory you can use all year round too.
Tiles – Many prefer their conservatories to look exactly like an extension and a tiled roof gives that vibe. The biggest benefit of a tiled roof is that it can be used to replace a previous roof if you cannot afford to redo the full conservatory. You will find that it makes the room much more energy efficient and the space will be cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
What will you use the room for?
There are so many uses for a dining room but it can determine the type of conservatory you go for. Will you use it frequently or just every so often? This is a decision you can certainly make afterwards but it will help a supplier or installer help you to make the right call for the space you have. Uses for a conservatory include:
- An extension of the kitchen as a dining room; it’s easy to access and is perfect for hosting friends and family over too, day or night
- An extra lounge or snug, perfect for summer evenings reading a book or movie nights with the family
- A children’s playroom; they can keep all their toys in one place and you know it’s a safe space for them all to play together
- A games’ room for the entire family for children young and old, as well as the adults!
- A spot for a home gym as there will be plenty of space for equipment and it’s out of the way for the rest of the household too
- A guest bedroom, using a sofa bed to maximise space at other times. It’s unconventional but great for those who have limited bedrooms.
- A greenhouse for all of your plants; they’ll grow without sweating or drying out in there
- A home office for those who work from home, are self-employed or run a business from their home
- A storage room with fitted units for items that don’t belong in other rooms. Just keep on top of it or it will become a dumping ground once again!
Find out how we can help transform your conservatory by contacting us today.
