Buying guide: Helping you to choose your conservatory

Conservatories make a fantastic addition to a home, but with so many options, how do you choose the best conservatory for your needs? We guide you through everything you need to know from style, design, and cost to the popular firms to buy conservatories from.

In the market for a conservatory? Let us help you compare the best conservatories available and weigh up all the most important considerations before you make your purchase.

Top reasons why people install a modern conservatory

• More living space: Conservatories are a more affordable way to add extra living space to your home, be it for lounging, dining, or playing

• Increase in property value: If done well, a conservatory can add up to 7% to the value of your home

• Connection with the outdoors: With temperature-control design features, modern conservatories allow you to enjoy your outdoor space from the comfort of your home, whatever the weather

• Natural light: The glazed conservatory structure lets in a huge amount of light, which bathes surrounding rooms too, brightening the interior of your home

• Advanced technology: The best conservatories use energy-efficient, durable materials for exceptional insulation, soundproofing, and weather-resistance

• No need for planning permission: Conservatories are generally considered ‘permitted development‘ as long as they meet specific rules and conditions

Like the look of this conservatory? Make sure you go and check out this conservatory installation project completed by our member, Sheerwater Glass.

How to choose the best conservatory for your home

Conservatories come in all shapes, sizes, styles, and designs, so buying the best conservatory for your needs can feel confusing.

When looking for conservatories for sale, it's important to consider what you need from a style, lifestyle, and budget perspective:

• How will it look against the architectural style of your home?

• How do you plan to use your conservatory - will a small conservatory be sufficient, or do you need a larger design?

• What budget do you have to put towards this project?

Style and design

Modern conservatories can be built to any spec, which makes the decision-making process more challenging!

Narrowing down your selection based on the type of conservatory that would best suit the existing architectural style of your home is a good starting point.

Some of the most popular conservatories include:

• Victorian: A bay front, steeply pitched roof, with ornate detailing

• Edwardian: Similar to Victorian but with a flat front and squared corners, giving more internal space

• Lean-to: A simple, practical option, normally as an extension to the kitchen - ideal if space is limited

• Gable: A grander appearance with a high, sloped roof, flat at the front, and rectangular floor plan

• P-shaped: A lean-to style section leading to a larger bay-fronted area

• T-shaped: A long section with a smaller section jutting out in the centre - often a relatively large conservatory

• Orangery: An orangery is a hybrid between a conservatory and a full extension, with brick pillars, glazing, and a solid roof with lanterns

Traditional conservatories are typically made from white uPVC or timber and are fully glazed. Whereas modern conservatories for sale can take on a more contemporary design either with coloured frames or sleek aluminium alongside bifold doors.

Related content: Gather style ideas and inspiration for your conservatory interior.

Size

Most homeowners will choose a conservatory size based on the space available to build and their budget.

Design options are broad, so think about whether you're looking for a cosy, small conservatory to relax, read, and unwind, or a large conservatory to entertain friends and family.

Budget

If your main driver for a conservatory is to create more useable living space in your home, it's definitely the more affordable option, compared with the cost of a house extension.

However, costs can vary depending on the size, style, and type of conservatory you choose; the quality of materials and glazing you opt for, whether any ground prep work is needed, and the addition of extras such as underfloor heating or blinds.

Some features, such as electrical sockets and roof vents might be charged as extra, so be sure to check exactly what your quote includes.

How much do conservatories typically cost?

Our conservatory cost guidecontains more detailed information, but as a guide, prices average around £10,250for a uPVC lean-to up to around £16,750for a wooden-framed Victorian conservatory.

These prices are a guide only. For a conservatory measuring 3.5m x 3.5m. We recommend getting at least three quotes from our approved members. You can do this quickly and easily through our request a quote feature.

Don't forget to budget for conservatory cleaning costs for the ongoing maintenance of your new structure!

What are the most popular conservatory installation companies?

Many people choose to buy and install conservatories from local firms. However, there are several national firms that homeowners buy conservatories from too.

Some of the most well-known companies include:

1. Anglian

2. Everest

3. Sehbac

4. Ultraframe

What to look for when comparing conservatory companies

When looking at conservatories for sale, you'll find it's possible to buy 'off the shelf' and have another firm install it or buy a complete package from one firm. Again, check what's offered when you do your initial research.

Other key things to look for include:

• Whether they're members of the Windows, Doors & Conservatories Group - for assurance they adhere to high standards

• FENSA registration - to ensure the glazing used is energy-efficient and meets building regulations

Be sure to compare the price you're quoted for the conservatory, the installation, and any extra features.

You should also compare how long the work is expected to take, check out customer reviews, and ask to see previous examples of their work.

Using a professional directory, such as Checkatrade, you can easily compare several conservatory companies we've checked and approved.

Could it be time to upgrade your windows and doors too?

A new conservatory will look fresh and modern - instantly improving your home's appearance. A smart-looking exterior could add up to 10% to its value, so it might be a great time to consider new windows and doors too.

Our guides to the cost of new windows and the cost of new doors will help you to plan for these additional upgrades.

Key takeaways

Conservatories are an affordable way to gain extra living space in your home without committing to a full house extension. If done well, they can also add to the value of your property.

• Consider your needs: How you wish to use your conservatory will influence the style and size you choose

• Match your home's style: Opt for a design that'll complement your property's architectural style

• Plan your budget:Conservatories range in price, averaging from £10,250for a uPVC lean-to up to around £16,750for a wooden-framed Victorian conservatory (3.5m x 3.5m). The cost of installation and extras such as heating need to be factored in too

• Check planning permission: Most conservatories fall within permitted development as long as certain criteria are met but check with your local planning authority in advance

Find a conservatory specialist in your area

All Checkatrade tradespeople must pass up to 12 checks and meet our high standards, giving you complete confidence in your choice of hire.

Plus, when you book your conservatory installation with one of our tradespeople, we'll guarantee their work up to £1,000. Guaranteed for 12 months – Eligibility and T&Cs apply.

Ready to start planning your dream conservatory? Find trusted and approved installers through Checkatrade. Search your postcode to get started.

Planning your conservatory installation

Getting the planning and preparation right is vital when installing a conservatory. For a full guide to designing, planning, budgeting, project management, and the construction of your conservatory, read on.

Learn more

FAQs

What is a conservatory and why have one?

A conservatory is a room attached to your home with a glass roof often covering at least 75% of the overall roof area, and glass walls comprising at least 50% of the total wall area.

Traditionally, conservatories were glass structures with uPVC frames. However, nowadays, when looking for conservatories for sale, you'll notice much greater scope in style, design, and performance.

Consequently, the best conservatories can be enjoyed all year round, more like a real extension.

Is it cheaper to have an extension or a conservatory?

Conservatories are generally cheaper than house extensions, making them a cost-effective way to increase the living space within your home.

Does a conservatory need planning permission?

It's not normally necessary to get planning permission for a conservatory as it falls within permitted development. However, to do so, it will need to meet certain rules and criteria. For example, the conservatory will need to cover less than 50% of the area of the home and be at the rear of the property.

How long does it take to build a conservatory?

Depending on its size, expect an average-sized conservatory to take anything from three to four weeks to build.