Planning a new conservatory for your home often raises many questions, and it can be challenging to get started with the numerous options available on the market. If you are looking for some conservatory ideas or some foundational knowledge to get you started on your journey, then read on to find out more!

What is a Conservatory?

By definition, a conservatory is a room attached to a house with a glass roof and walls, typically used as a sunroom or to grow more miniature houseplants. To be legally considered a conservatory, the build must withhold the following features:

• Single story and ground level
• The floor area must not exceed 30 metres
• Must be separated from the house by doors, walls, or windows
• Have an independent heating system
• Include glazing and fixed electrical installations that must comply with building regulations.

What is the Difference Between a Conservatory and an Orangery?

The differentiation between conservatories and orangeries has become less apparent over time, primarily due to their roof and overall construction. Historically, orangeries were used as separate buildings to grow orange trees, particularly in large period homes. This explains the inherent style of an orangery, which often features grand pillars and greater solidity in the roof to create a more room-like feel. 

Conservatories, on the other hand, aim to maximise natural light in the space, as if the outside is also being brought in. Simply put, the consensus when differentiating the two is that an orangery is a home extension that features a glass roof covering less than 75% of the total area and glass walls covering less than 50% of the total area. Comparably, a conservatory should have a glass roof that covers at least 75% of the total area, and at least 50% of the walls should be made up of glass. 

How Much Does a Conservatory Cost?

If you’re looking for an affordable way to add space to your home, a conservatory is a great option. Although the cost of the conservatory itself can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as size, style, and materials used, among others. At A&A, we offer a wide array of materials to allow you to fully customise your new living space, from premium materials such as timber frames to more affordable yet reliable options like upvc. For a more affordable conservatory space, opting for a polycarbonate roof could be a good alternative, which is lightweight and includes UV protection.

Over time, revamping your home with a conservatory also has a ripple effect of benefits. Conservatories can add value to your property, with the extent of that value depending on a few factors. A well-built and well maintained conservatory could increase the property’s market value by 10% or more. 

To obtain an accurate price, please contact a member of our A&A team for a free, personalised quote. 

How to Make Your Conservatory Warmer?

By focusing on improving insulation and adding heat sources, your home is sure to experience an improvement in living comfort. Insulating your roof or replacing it with a tiled roof would be a good first step. Additionally, you could add insulation to your walls through insulated panels or plasterboard. Double glazing within your windows and doors has been proven to reduce thermal transfer and maintain heat in the colder months.

Conservatory Types at A&A

At A&A Windows, we take pride in not only our service to you and communities in and around Essex, but also the range of possibilities that can elevate your home to the next level. We offer authentic, classic conservatories that incorporate the latest technology and can be enhanced with a range of optional extras. Our Performance conservatory features the latest super insulated column technology for maximum thermal efficiency, with plastered columns and decorative cornices to create a grand yet cosy feel. And finally, our Conservatory Extension, which provides a seamless transition between your home and the extended space by incorporating the conservatory appeal of natural light, while maintaining a consistent temperature throughout, thanks to the walls and high performance glass. 

You can also choose from an array of styles, from traditional to contemporary, for your home in Essex or Hertfordshire. Whether you’re after an Edwardian, Victorian, Georgian, Sunlounge, Gable, P-Shape, T-Shape, or L-Shape conservatory, we’ll ensure the one you choose best suits your lifestyle. 

A&A Windows is a fully accredited, family-run double glazing company that guarantees your home improvement happiness. We supply and install high quality manufacturing, where our materials undergo rigorous quality checks to ensure the best quality and performance. We also provide an excellent after care service to ensure that you and your conservatory receive the best care possible. You can obtain your personalised, no-obligation quote today or contact a member of our friendly team for a consultation via our contact form or by phone.