In an era when creeping inflation and corresponding interest rates are squeezing most households, the idea of moving to a larger property may not be one taxing many minds just at the moment.
But what if you really do need more space, for a growing family for example, or because you’re now working from home far more often?
A conservatory is an ideal solution to the problem of carving out more space without costly upsizing. True, it’s possible to spend a good five figures on a new conservatory, but even the top end of the market is a cheaper option than costly moving fees and a much bigger mortgage.
At Global Windows, we have had more than two decades of experience supplying and fitting a wide variety of conservatories, orangeries and sunrooms, and over the years we’ve learned a thing or two about such buildings, and why people invest in them. So we’ve shared our tips to help you choose your perfect conservatory:
Ask yourself ‘why?’
Deciding to have a conservatory built is no small decision. Ask yourself what you might use the space for, how large or small you would like it, whether it will be used all year round, what kind of roof you’d like, etc. Decisions, decisions, yes, but even getting a rough idea at this stage of how you’d like the space to work will be useful when it comes to the specifics later on.
Check your budget
This is very much a determining factor when it comes to choosing styles and sizes. It’s estimated that a conservatory can add between seven and 15 per cent to the value of your house, and although the market is a little stagnant right now, this won’t be the case forever. Increased interest rates might put you off borrowing that little bit more, thereby stretching your finances. However, if there are better times around the corner it’s perfectly possible to look at a conservatory as an asset that will reap its rewards in the future.
Style considerations
Conservatories come in all shapes and sizes, the most popular being Victorian and Edwardian styles. The Victorian conservatory tends to feature a high-pitched, ornate roof usually made of glass, while Edwardian styles are somewhat more understated with a flatter roof. Global Windows supplies a range of conservatories including gable-fronted, lantern, lean-to and P-shape. Whatever the style of your house, most, if not all, these options will be suitable.
Planning permission and building regulations
Do you need planning permission to build a conservatory? Generally, the answer is ‘no’, as long as it meets certain regulations. If it does, it is regarded as ‘permitted development’ and can be built without permission. When it comes to building regulations, conservatories are again usually exempt as long as they meet some conditions, for example that a minimum of 50% of the new wall and 75% of the roof is glazed or uses translucent material, and that external walls or windows separate the conservatory from the house. If in doubt, contact your installer to check.
Energy efficiency
This has become a real biggie among people planning a conservatory, and for good reasons. Conservatories used to feel like igloos in the winter and saunas in the summer – to say they were thermally inefficient is an understatement. Today’s conservatories are a world away from that. The ones supplied by Global Windows are built from thermally sound uPVC, and are ‘A’ rated for energy efficiency as standard. They will help to create a warmer home and save you money on reduced heating bills.
Maintenance
Today’s uPVC conservatories require little maintenance – all that’s needed is cleaning the glass and clearing the gutters. That said, it’s worth keeping an eye on the building as a bit of care and attention will go a long way, especially if and when you come to sell your home. It is an asset, so treat it like one, and brighten up the place with great furniture, comfortable soft furnishings, books, plants and pictures. That’s the fun part!
How can Global Windows help you?
At Global Windows, we supply and install seven different conservatory styles in homes across South Yorkshire. Constructed using the highest quality uPVC systems, our conservatories will provide you with the best in thermal and acoustic insulation. We can also incorporate your choice of entrance door, to make your new conservatory truly unique and fitting to your home.
Our conservatory styles include:
For more information, contact our friendly team today, and improve your South Yorkshire home with Global Windows.
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