DIY Conservatories

DIY Conservatories

Many homes benefit from home improvements such as DIY Conservatories. They offer additional living space and a more elegant look to the home. They are also beneficial in utilising the energy from the sun to help reduce heating costs. They may require an additional heat source on the coldest days of winter, but that also depends on what types of plants are being grown in them.

DIY Conservatories are becoming easier to install and maintain than ever before. Depending on what type is desired will determine how much work is involved and what types of permits are required. It is important to check building codes and bylaws before the project is started. This information in advance will prevent wasted time and expenses should the project not pass code.

One of the first things to consider is the use of the conservatory. Will it be used to provide an additional heat source to the home during the winter? If so, the ideal location for it will be the south side of the home. If it is going to be used only as a three season addition the east, west or north side is sufficient. 

The next thing to consider is the size of it. Will it be mainly for plants or will it also be an area used for entertaining guests? This is a very important factor to consider when planning a conservatory, as it is easier to build it big enough initially than to try to add on to it at a later time. Planning for furniture is important; all too often conservatories are planned without the addition of furniture. When they are built the residents decide they need furniture and quickly find the conservatory too small.

The third thing to consider is the type of building materials. Will it be built from wood or uPVC? Factor in cost of each and ease of installation. It would be beneficial to visit several homes with conservatories to find out what works in the area. Humidity can play a big part in the appearance of wood framework, especially if it hasn?t been treated. A DIY person can easily cut and assemble the wooden framework for a conservatory, as well as preserve and protect the natural beauty with a water sealant but PVC can be equally easy to put together with all parts usually being pre-cut.

One of the most important factors to consider is the type of glass used. This is not only important for heat/cold transfer, but also for privacy and security. A conservatory is an open design which exposes the inhabitants to the prying eyes of neighbours and burglars alike. Safety glass is the best choice as it does not break into shards when broken. Something as simple as a rock thrown from a lawnmower could break a pane of glass; having it crumble into pellets is much better than shards. The glass should also have a high insulating factor. This will ensure the conservatory is warm in winter and not extremely hot in the summer. A glass without a high glare factor is also important; sunglasses should not have to be worn inside the home.

You need to bear in mind that there are many companies who can provide conservatories prices so you need to look around to ensure you don't pay too much.

It is vital to research the types of materials recommended for a conservatory, whether it be professionally installed or by the average DIYer.  It is beneficial to visit a conservatory showroom to learn about the materials, even if it will be a DIY Conservatory. Safety is the most important factor to consider and comfort is essential as well. There isn?t much point adding a conservatory to the home if it isn?t going to be utilised.