Adding the conservatory to a modern home

While the conservatory is a welcome complement to any home, consider these fundamentals to ensure your addition is not a minus.

Check council permits for the conservatory

As with any construction, you will need to check what council regulations apply. Not getting the correct advice in the beginning could cost substantial amounts of time and money if you have to remove any illegal building work.

Enjoying the climate

While it may seem like a nice idea to warm up your winters, take some time to think about the hotter months. Is the conservatory going to be unusable in the summer? Perhaps plant a deciduous tree nearby to ensure protection when it's hottest.

Facing north

If you do build the conservatory that is flooded with sunshine all day, be sure to consider how this will impact your furnishings. Strong sun, especially if magnified through glass, will fade cherished items quickly and often unevenly, leaving you with sun-streaked furnishings.

A right to privacy

While you may relish being able to strut around in the privacy of your own home while still getting a tan, spare a thought for the neighbours. Be sure your sight lines don't infringe on your or their privacy.

The issue of cleanliness

Conservatories are a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature, yet the expanse of glass can be a major headache to clean constantly. Ensure there is a safe way to remove leaves, dust and other matter that may cloud your view without risking life or limb on a daily basis.

A sporting chance

Often constructed to overlook and enjoy the garden, conservatories can be prime targets for errant cricket balls and misplaced stones from lawn-mowers. Be sure that any glass that is at risk of breakage is safety certified. The extra cost could well prevent nasty accidents.

To find out if the conservatory is the way to go for your home, talk with a professional conservatory builder in your area: